Boosters
This information is for boosters, fans and friends of Auburn University. We are "The Family". The expression "The Auburn Family" has long had a special meaning for the alumni and friends of Auburn University. The relationship we enjoy, one with another and to the institution to which we are fiercely loyal is one which we all cherish and want to strengthen. To enhance that relationship, we must all adhere to the rules and regulations that govern Auburn's athletic program.
Under NCAA regulations, we are, or can unintentionally make ourselves, "representatives of Auburn's athletic interests" and thereby bound to the same rules and regulations as coaches, athletic administrators and staff members. When violations occur, whether intentional or not, Auburn University is responsible for our actions, and ignorance of the rules cannot be used as an excuse.
This web page has been prepared as a handy reference to the NCAA rules governing situations most likely encountered by alumni and friends. Please remember that it does not, however, include all applicable provisions.
Therefore, please call us before you do anything involving contact with, or employment of, any prospective student-athletes. As members of the "Auburn Family," we must make sure that the eligibility of our student-athletes is not endangered by inadvertent rules violations.
Auburn University is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct as well as excellence in athletic performance, as expressed so eloquently by Dr. George Petrie in the Auburn Creed:
"I believe in honesty and truthfulness without which I cannot earn the confidence and trust of my fellow man. I believe in a sound mind and a sound body, and spirit that is not afraid. And clean sports that develop these qualities."
Do
- If desired, provide an occasional family meal for student-athletes. The meal must be in the home of the representative of athletics interests, and the meal can be catered. You may also provide transportation for the athletes attending this meal.
- Attend games where prospects are competing, as long as no contact is made with the prospect or prospect's parents.
- Continue normal contact with prospects with which you have pre-established relationships, as longs as the contacts are not recruiting related.
- If desired, arrange employment for prospective student-athletes, as long as the employment begins after high school graduation, and pay is commensurate with the "going rate".
- Accept a phone call from a prospect, as long as the prospect initiates the call. All questions regarding the institution's athletics department should be directed back to the athletics department.
- Check with the Office of Compliance before you do anything that may jeopardize a current or prospective student-athlete's eligibility.
- Notify the Department of Athletics or coaching staff members about outstanding prospects.
Don't
- Provide a prospective student athlete, his/her parents, relatives, friends, or coaches with any material benefit.
- Make recruiting presentations to groups of prospective student-athletes.
- Make in-person on or off-campus recruiting contact, telephone calls, or establish written correspondence with prospective student-athletes.
- Entertain or provide awards or gifts for a current student-athlete, or his/her family and friends.
- Pay a student-athlete for a speaking engagement.
- Use a student-athlete's name, picture, or appearance to promote sales or advertise the use of a commercial product or service.
- Pay or offer to pay for registration fees for summer sports camps for a prospect.
- If you believe that there is a young person with athletic talent who might be interested in attending Auburn. DO NOT contact him or her directly. Instead, please talk to the appropriate coach.