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Masterson’s Proposed Class-Action Lawsuit

Canadian junior hockey player Rylan Masterson has launched a proposed class-action lawsuit against the NCAA and 10 universities, alleging antitrust violations based on the NCAA’s ineligibility rule for players with prior major-junior hockey experience.

NCAA’s Ineligibility Rule

Under NCAA Bylaw 12.2.3.2, individuals who have participated in a professional sport are deemed ineligible for intercollegiate athletics. This rule has been applied to players who have appeared in games for the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), comprising the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), Western Hockey League (WHL), and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), due to the presence of players with NHL contracts on those teams.

Masterson’s Experience and Arguments

Masterson, who played for the Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Fort Erie Meteors, was deemed ineligible for NCAA play after appearing in two preseason games for the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires. He claims that this rule is unfair, as it prevents players from pursuing NCAA opportunities despite not receiving financial compensation.

The lawsuit cites examples of professional athletes like swimmer Katie Ledecky and hockey player Tom Willander who maintained NCAA eligibility despite prior professional experience. Masterson argues that the rule suppresses competition between the CHL and NCAA for top players, reduces compensation for players, and unfairly forces 16-year-olds to decide their future playing paths at an early age.

NCAA Review and Coaches’ Role

In 2023, the NCAA reviewed its policies and identified a potential legal vulnerability in the “boycott” of Canadian junior players. The NCAA advised coaches that the decision to end the boycott rested with them. However, the coaches have repeatedly declined to vote on the matter.

In May 2024, a committee was established to monitor legal challenges to the rule. If Masterson’s lawsuit is successful, it could lead to changes in the junior hockey pipeline, allowing players to compete in both major-junior and college hockey.

Significance of the Lawsuit

Masterson’s lawsuit is expected to have far-reaching implications for the NCAA and junior hockey landscape. It raises questions about the NCAA’s eligibility rules and the potential impact of antitrust laws on sports regulations. The outcome of the case could shape the future of player development and the relationship between the NCAA and junior hockey organizations.

Conclusion

The proposed class-action lawsuit by Rylan Masterson challenges the NCAA’s ineligibility rule for Canadian junior hockey players. The lawsuit highlights concerns about antitrust violations, fairness, and the impact on player opportunities. The outcome of the case will have significant implications for both the NCAA and the junior hockey system, potentially opening up new pathways for player development and competition.