NCAA clarifies age-based eligibility rules not retroactive for 2025-26 athletes

12 articles · Updated · ESPN · Apr 27

NCAA president Charlie Baker confirmed athletes who finish eligibility by spring 2026 will not be affected by the new rules, which offer five years to compete starting after high school or age 19.
The Division I board directed the cabinet to advance the proposal, with a key meeting and possible vote scheduled for May 22. No exceptions are expected for specific sports, but allowances for pregnancy, military service, and religious missions remain.
This marks the first major eligibility structure change in decades, aiming for simplicity and faster decision-making. Baker expressed optimism about passage, noting broad familiarity and support for the age-based model among NCAA members.

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