Athletics request could cost taxpayers

The Utah State University Athletics Department is requesting $1.5 million from the state Legislature this year.

Sen. Lyle Hillyard, R-Logan, said this funding would improve recruitment at USU by incentivizing athletes with stipends. He said other universities in the conference can provide stipends beyond housing and tuition, and USU needs funding to stay competitive.

Hillyard referred to the new NCAA provision that was passed a few weeks ago in a vote of 79-1. According to ESPN.com, that the provision, called “Full Cost of Attendance,” allows colleges in the “Power 5” conferences (SEC, Big 10, Big 12, Pac-12, ACC) to compensate their athletes with stipends to cover living expenses.

Universities in the remaining “Group of 5” conferences — like the Mountain West to which Utah State belongs — also have the opportunity to follow suit.

Associate Athletic Director Jake Garlock said USU athletes are reimbursed for more than tuition and housing.

“For those athletes on full scholarships, we cover tuition and books but also transportation and food — that kind of stuff,” Garlock said. “On-campus housing, we take care of, and if they’re off-campus, we stipend it out. … They receive four installments throughout the semester.”

As of 2012, the university was spending six times more on student athletes in athletic spending than students who weren’t on athletic teams, according to the Knight Commission.

The $1.5 million request has already been cut in half by the state Senate. This does not come as a surprise to Hillyard, however, who said the amount was “unrealistic” to begin with. The request will now go to the Executive Appropriations Committee, which is chaired by Hillyard.

— brennakelly818@gmail.com