Judge Attacks NCAA Rule that Prohibits Student Athletes from Having Lawyers Present During Negotiations

An Ohio state court judge has held that an NCAA rule, which makes a student athlete ineligible if he or she has a lawyer present during contract negotiations with a professional sports team, is illegal since it interferes with an athlete’s right to legal representation.   The decision, which allows Oklahoma State University pitcher Andy Oliver to remain eligible, was significant because courts are typically hesitant to interfere with an association’s bylaws, especially with regard to th