The NCAA finally did something right for once by allowing fans to give aid to a homeless football player from Boise State.
Defensive tackle Antoine Turner had no home other than his uncle’s house in California. According to NCAA rules, Turner could not reside in California and play for Boise State, leaving him with nowhere to go between the end of school and the beginning of summer school in June.
Local station KTVB aired Turner’s story, “A Suitcase and a Dream” Sunday evening, detailing the hardships Turner had been through in his life. Immediately after, there was a large outpouring of people wanting to aid Turner so he would have a place to live.
In response, Boise State’s compliance office told KTVB, “We need to make it clear to your viewers and Bronco fans that it is NOT permissible within NCAA rules for boosters of Boise State athletics to provide benefits to Mr. Turner. That would include money, loans, gifts, discounts, transportation costs, etc. While Mr. Turner’s need is abundantly clear, it is not permissible for Boise State, the athletics department or supporters of the athletics department to assist Mr. Turner at this time.”
Luckily for Turner, the NCAA tweeted out Wednesday afternoon that in this case, they would allow the public to help.
After Boise State’s request last night, the school may provide immediate assistance to football student-athlete Antoine Turner.
— NCAA (@NCAA) May 14, 2014
The NCAA is notorious for placing nonsensical restrictions on the student athletes that continuously make their schools money. Good to see that they are doing something right for once.
I want to thank everyone for their concern God has been my armor these struggles has made me in to a warrior. #ATF 18days until I want worry
— Antoine L. Turner (@AiReZsO720) May 14, 2014