Is a booster permitted to provide transportation for a prospective student-athlete during a visit?

A booster is not permitted to provide transportation for a prospective student-athlete during a visit because such actions could be seen as an attempt to influence the student's recruitment. The NCAA establishes regulations to ensure that the recruitment process remains fair and equitable, protecting prospective student-athletes from undue influence by individuals associated with a university’s athletic programs.

In general, the rules surround boosters are strict to preserve the integrity of the recruiting process. If a booster were allowed to provide transportation, it could create situations that might lead to perception or reality of improprieties in the recruiting efforts. Transportation must typically be provided through the institution's approved channels, ensuring that the prospective student-athlete can visit the campus in a manner consistent with NCAA regulations.

It's important to understand these rules as they help maintain a level playing field across all programs and ensure that prospective student-athletes are making decisions based on their own interests without external pressures from boosters.