The two prominent Dartmouth players who led the initiative to form a union for their basketball team are now serving as a source of inspiration for others to join the movement, with athletes from other Ivy League institutions expressing their interest. Romeo Myrthil and Cade Haskins have reported being inundated with messages on social media after the recent ruling by the National Labor Relations Board, recognizing the Dartmouth players as school employees with the right to unionize.
Despite their initial intention to keep the movement discreet, Haskins has disclosed that there is a growing sense of curiosity and optimism regarding the potential for significant change in the future. This follows a fundamental shift in the traditional NCAA model, with recent court decisions permitting athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness. The NLRB’s ruling further challenges the status quo by acknowledging the players as employees of the school, entitled to forming a union.
In the wake of their announcement to establish an Ivy League Players Association, Myrthil and Haskins are aiming to expand the reach of the movement to other teams and schools across the conference. Their primary focus remains on basketball, and they are committed to ensuring that the game always comes first, even amidst the newfound attention.
The significance of establishing a college athletes union goes beyond the realm of sports, as it has the potential to reshape the landscape of American collegiate athletics. The Ivy League, renowned for its emphasis on academics and lack of athletic scholarships, may be the catalyst for this change, diverging from conventional big-money football programs. The unionization effort has even garnered the attention of NCAA President Charlie Baker, a former Harvard basketball player and Massachusetts governor.
The response from Dartmouth coach David McLaughlin and Harvard coach Tommy Amaker reflects the uncertainty surrounding the implications of the unionization effort. Both coaches have refrained from making definitive statements, indicating a sense of watchful anticipation as further developments unfold.
Looking ahead, Myrthil and Haskins recognize that the road ahead may be filled with challenges, particularly with Dartmouth indicating its intention to request a review of the NLRB’s decision. Despite the potential for prolonged legal battles, the two players remain resolute in their commitment to the cause, understanding that the ultimate impact may extend beyond their time at the university.
In the midst of uncertainty, the unity and support among the members of the Dartmouth basketball team remain unwavering. Myrthil emphasized that their teammates are an integral part of their family, and their support for the unionization effort extends to all members of their basketball family.
This latest development in collegiate sports reflects a shift in the treatment and recognition of college athletes, heralding a potential transformation that could redefine the landscape of collegiate athletics in the years to come.
(Source: AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball)