In a groundbreaking decision, a U.S. labor board official, Laura Sacks, has greenlit the possibility of unionization for men’s basketball players at Dartmouth College. Situated in the picturesque landscapes of New Hampshire and renowned for its Ivy League status, Dartmouth is now in uncharted territory as the NLRB regional director paves the way for what could become the first successful unionization endeavor in college athletics.
Sacks, in a meticulously detailed 26-page ruling, contends that the basketball program at Dartmouth holds a unique position, contributing significantly to the college’s public image, alumni connections, and financial support. According to Sacks, the school exercises control over the players’ activities, thus qualifying them as employees under U.S. labor law.
“While students at Dartmouth engage in various extracurricular pursuits, it is crucial to note that major media outlets do not financially compensate for broadcasting the majority of these activities,” stated Sacks, emphasizing the distinctive nature of the basketball program.
The ruling stems from a petition by an affiliate of the Service Employees International Union, seeking to initiate a unionization vote among the basketball players. Although a date for the election has not been set, Dartmouth holds the option to appeal the decision to the five-member NLRB. However, such an appeal would not impede the progress towards a unionization vote.
Neither Dartmouth nor the Service Employees International Union affiliate has issued an immediate response to requests for comment, leaving the implications of this unprecedented decision hanging in the balance.
This groundbreaking development aligns with a memo issued in 2021 by NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo, appointed by President Joe Biden. Abruzzo argued that many college athletes should be recognized as employees of their respective institutions. Her memo pledged to take action against colleges obstructing players’ organizing efforts, a promise that materialized in a complaint against the University of Southern California last May.
Interestingly, Dartmouth, much like other Ivy League schools, does not extend athletic scholarships to its students. However, Sacks’ decision highlights alternative forms of compensation for basketball players, including early admission privileges, equipment and apparel, game tickets, and accommodations with meals.
As Dartmouth College grapples with this unprecedented move towards unionization, the echoes of change reverberate through the hallowed halls of collegiate athletics, hinting at a potential paradigm shift in the treatment and recognition of student-athletes.
