Recently, the men’s basketball team at Dartmouth College decided to abandon their efforts to form a union. This decision marks a significant shift in their strategy to address issues faced by college athletes. The team's initial petition to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) aimed to establish themselves as the first collegiate sports team to unionize. However, with an anticipated change in the board's political alignment, the players opted for a different approach. They continue to advocate for fair compensation, comprehensive health coverage, and safe working conditions through alternative means.
In 2023, the Dartmouth players sought recognition as employees due to the extensive control exerted over their schedules and working conditions. A regional official supported this claim, leading to a vote where the majority favored joining SEIU Local 560. Despite this progress, the university maintained its stance that student-athletes are not employees but students participating in athletic programs. Fearing potential repercussions from a Republican-controlled NLRB, the team withdrew their petition to reassess their strategy.
Shifting Strategies in Response to Political Changes
As the political landscape of the NLRB shifted towards Republican control, the Dartmouth men’s basketball team faced a critical juncture in their pursuit of unionization. Recognizing the unfavorable environment, they chose to withdraw their petition rather than risk a negative outcome. This strategic move allows them to explore other avenues for advocating on behalf of college athletes without the immediate pressure of a potentially hostile labor board.
The decision to retract the petition was made after careful consideration of the broader implications. Lawyers representing SEIU Local 560, which already represents some Dartmouth workers, understood the risks associated with proceeding under the new administration. By stepping back, the team can regroup and evaluate alternative methods to achieve their goals. Chris Peck, President of SEIU Local 560, emphasized the ongoing commitment to fighting for just compensation, adequate health coverage, and safe working conditions for varsity athletes. He stressed that collective bargaining remains the most viable pathway to addressing the challenges faced by college athletics today. The team's withdrawal does not signify defeat but rather a tactical adjustment to navigate the evolving legal and political climate surrounding college sports.
Persisting Advocacy for Athlete Rights
The Dartmouth players' initial push for unionization began in 2023 when they argued that the university's control over their schedules and working conditions warranted classification as employees. This argument gained traction when a regional official agreed with their claims. In March, the team voted overwhelmingly to join SEIU Local 560, signaling a strong desire for change. However, Dartmouth College steadfastly opposed these efforts, maintaining that student-athletes are primarily students whose education includes athletics, not employees.
Despite the setback, the team remains committed to improving the conditions for college athletes. Their advocacy extends beyond Dartmouth, touching on broader issues within collegiate sports. The struggle for fair treatment and recognition as employees is part of a larger movement that has seen various attempts across different institutions. For instance, a previous effort to unionize the Northwestern football team faltered due to jurisdictional limitations. Meanwhile, a separate complaint seeks to classify football and basketball players at Southern California as employees of their school, conference, and the NCAA. These ongoing efforts highlight the persistent challenges and the need for continued advocacy to ensure that college athletes receive the support and protections they deserve.