12.2 Amateur Sports Flashcards
Historically, who was allowed to qualify for certain international competitions (like the Olympics)?
Only amateurs were allowed, excluding professional athletes.
When were the Olympic rules on amateurism significantly relaxed so that professionals could also qualify?
After 1988, professionals were permitted in most Olympic events.
How do many sport governing bodies still distinguish between amateurs and professionals?
By maintaining eligibility rules, which define who is considered amateur vs. professional and who can compete in certain events.
In what way do these governing bodies potentially act like a cartel?
They restrict competition to “approved” events and can penalize athletes (by revoking eligibility) if they compete elsewhere, limiting athletes’ outside options.
Where else do we observe cartel-like behavior in amateur sports besides eligibility rules?
In compensation restrictions, controlling sponsorship or endorsement deals, and preventing alternative tournaments, thereby keeping the market closed to outside organizers.
What are some reasons certain sports and events remain strictly “amateur” (i.e., no direct pay)?
Often due to tradition, perceived purity of the sport, cost control, maintaining competitive balance, or preserving the existing power structure of governing bodies.
What is one effect of limiting athletes to “approved” competitions on the market for amateur sports?
It creates a barrier to entry for alternative competitions, reduces athlete bargaining power, and helps the main governing body retain its monopoly or cartel-like control.
