Jessica Strong

The NCAA D1 Cabinet just unanimously approved the age-based eligibility model (final after Wed meeting). It shifts from the old rule (4 seasons of competition within 5 years starting at full-time college enrollment) to a new "5 seasons in 5 years" model. The 5-year clock now starts at the earlier of: initial full-time college enrollment or the academic year after an athlete's 19th birthday. It runs consecutively with almost no extensions or waivers (exceptions only for pregnancy, religious missions, or military service). Current athletes with eligibility left can choose the old or new rules, whichever helps them more. Future prospects follow the new system strictly.