Guidelines Regarding a Student-Athlete's
Seasons of Competition
The accurate recording of student-athlete participation is a critical function of the Office of Athletic Compliance. Unless a waiver is applied for and granted from the NCAA, ALL STUDENT-ATHLETES ARE LIMITED TO A FIVE YEAR PERIOD IN WHICH THEY MAY COMPLETE FOUR SEASONS of competitive eligibility in each sport.
Once these four seasons are used, a student-athlete is no longer eligible for intercollegiate competition in that sport. Additionally, accurate documentation regarding student-athlete participation is critical in obtaining a medical hardship waiver, should the need arise.
A student-athlete utilizes a season of competitive eligibility if, at any time during an academic year, he/she represents the institution in competition against individuals not on the institution's team. This is true regardless of how that competition is classified or when it occurs. Therefore, a student-athlete who participates in any of the following has utilized one of his/her four seasons of competitive eligibility in that sport:
- A joint practice session; or
- A scrimmage (other than intra-squad); or
- An alumni game; or
- An exhibition.
Also, a student-athlete who does any of the following has utilized one of his/her four seasons of competitive eligibility in that sport:
- Competes in the uniform of the institution; or
- Utilizes apparel or equipment with institutional identification; or
- Receives expenses associated with competition of any type.
ROBERT MORRIS UNIVERSITY
COOPERATION, CONSCIENCE, COMPLIANCE... COLONIALS!
