A Blueprint to Save College Athletics: Add More Athletes

Sep 4, 2025

Brent Richard, CEO of IMG Academy, and Drew Weatherford, co-founder of Weatherford Capital and former FSU quarterback, dive deep into the evolving landscape of college sports. They propose a bold solution: adding more athletes instead of cutting teams. The discussion covers the financial potential of non-revenue sports, the implications of NIL rights, and the future of college athletics by 2035. They emphasize the importance of mentorship and empowerment through sports, aiming to create a more inclusive and developmental environment for all student-athletes.

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ANECDOTE

How Commercialization Changed The Athlete Role

Drew explained how commercialization shifted the student-athlete role as coaches, media, and conferences grew wealthy.
He traced the trend to coaches earning millions and athletes increasingly treated like professionals.

ADVICE

Teach NIL And Financial Basics Early

Teach financial literacy and NIL basics to student-athletes before they monetize opportunities.
Provide structured classes and partner programs so athletes know banking, contracts, and long-term planning.

ANECDOTE

From Beginner To Princeton Golfer

Brent described Flora, an eighth-grade golfer who came with almost no experience and became a Princeton student-athlete.
He used this story to show IMG's education-first development pathway produces academic and athletic outcomes.

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