Clemson University in South Carolina is making big moves to level the playing field in college football. Coach Dabo Swinney and athletic director Graham Neff announced that the university will fully fund a revenue-sharing program for its athletes as part of the NCAA’s upcoming House settlement. This initiative aims to address the disparities between schools with larger donor bases and better funding and schools like Clemson.
In addition to participating in revenue sharing, Clemson will be adding 150 scholarships across all sports for the 2025-26 academic year. This increase in scholarships will bring the total number of scholarships offered by the university to 425 across its 21 sports. The additional scholarships will help support student-athletes and provide more opportunities for aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams.
The university is also taking steps to streamline its fundraising efforts by combining the “110 Society” with the long-standing scholarship fundraising arm, “IPTAY.” Donors who contribute to the 110 Society will now be eligible to earn IPTAY Priority Points, which can be redeemed for perks such as better seating and parking. This strategic partnership will help incentivize donations and support the university’s athletic programs.
With the NCAA’s $2.8 billion settlement on the horizon, Clemson is positioning itself for long-term success by proactively addressing the financial needs of its student-athletes. The university plans to share the maximum allowable amount of $20.5 million with its athletes in 2025-26, once the settlement is finalized. This commitment to financial support will help ensure that Clemson remains competitive in college sports.
Furthermore, Clemson’s athletic department will establish a centralized “Front Office” to oversee contract details, compliance, and allocation strategy. This centralized approach will help streamline operations and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently to support student-athletes across all sports.
Coach Swinney emphasized the importance of financial literacy among student-athletes and announced plans to bring in financial planners to help players manage their money. By providing resources and support beyond the field, Clemson is investing in the holistic development of its student-athletes.
Overall, Clemson’s commitment to fully funding NCAA settlement initiatives and adding scholarships demonstrates its dedication to creating a more equitable playing field in college sports. With these proactive measures in place, Clemson is poised to excel both on and off the field, setting a new standard for athletic programs across the country.
