The NCAA has officially adopted a new policy that will make it easier for the families of student-athletes participating in this year’s men’s and women’s Final Fours to make it to the high-profile tournaments.
According to a post on the NCAA website, the Division I council on Wednesday made permanent a pilot that began with the 2015 Division I Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships.
The rule authorizes payment up to $3,000 total in travel, hotel and meal expenses for family of each student-athlete on teams that compete in the Final Four semifinal games but don’t advance to the championships. The NCAA pays up to $4,000 in expenses for each student-athlete on teams that compete in the men’s and women’s basketball championship games.
The schools are in charge of how the funds are used and distributed. The allowance specifically covers transportation, hotel and meals for two family members.
The new legislation now includes the College Football Playoffs as well.
“We are glad to make permanent a program that has benefited student-athletes and their families since 2015,” said Council chair Blake James, athletics director at Miami (Florida). “The family travel program allows families to take part in the Final Fours and celebrate with their student-athletes.”
