High School Coaches Concerned About New Ethics Law In Ala.

http://www.wltz.com/story/15168039/coaches-raise-question-to-alabamas-new-ethics-law

High school and college coaches throughout the state of Alabama have a lot of unanswered questions on whether or not coaches will be allowed to accompany a recruit to sports events, which could violate Alabama’s new ethics law. “I think the coach’s role in a recruiting visit, unofficial, is mainly transportation. Sometimes we load several recruits up and take them to a game in which the players and I get a ticket to attend,” said Auburn Head Football Coach Tim Carter.

In the past, Coach Carter says coaches have gotten free passes from universities, under the NCAA.  The new law prohibits public employees from accepting anything of value while performing their official duties. The NCAA rules allow a student-athlete to be taken to games by a high school coach, responsible for teaching and directing the athlete. “Coaches serve more than just a coach, we help mentor and guide our athletes to make the best decision for them,” Carter said.

Under NCAA rules, athletic prospects and their immediate family members can take five official visits to a school per year. During the visits, the university pays for transportation, meals, and lodging. “I think in certain situations a coach should fill in as a parent,” said senior football player Clay Machen.

The ethics commission will release an opinion during their next commission meeting on Wednesday.  “I mean my parents always go everywhere with me, so the new law wouldn’t affect me, but I think it’s wrong because it affects all those who can’t afford to go on visits,” said Machen. 

The new ethics law applies to almost 300,000 public employees in Alabama. The law was passed in December 2010.