For the higher a part of the previous 20 years, Nick Saban was the face of school soccer. Simply because he retired in January doesn’t suggest that is about to alter.
In an interview with ESPN’s Chris Low, Saban revealed his plans post-retirement, which embody utilizing his voice and platform to provide “significant change” to school soccer.
“I wish to assist any means I can, as a result of I really like the gamers, and I really like school soccer,” mentioned Saban earlier than including, “What we’ve got now isn’t school soccer – not school soccer as we all know it. You hear someone use the phrase ‘student-athlete.’ That does not exist.”
In Low’s article, he notes, “Some coaches have instructed that Saban could be an ideal selection as school soccer commissioner if such a place is ever created.”
Saban, who was employed by ESPN as an analyst for faculty soccer and the NFL Draft after retiring from teaching, mentioned he is “probably not searching for a job,” however he’d additionally “wish to influence school soccer one of the simplest ways I can, whether or not it is being a spokesperson or anything.”
He expressed concern concerning the affect NIL collectives have on the game, which has largely morphed right into a pay-for-play operation.
Saban echoed an concept floated by NCAA president Charlie Baker in December 2023 that instructed NIL cash be funneled by means of universities versus outdoors teams.
“Individuals may give cash to the college once more and get a tax deduction for doing it, and the college in some type of means shares, the place it is share income, whether or not it is shopping for advertising rights, which is a risk,” mentioned Saban.
The seven-time nationwide championship-winning coach spent the vast majority of his skilled profession in school soccer, so he is aware of a factor or two concerning the sport. Because it continues to evolve, the decision-makers could be smart to pay attention when Saban speaks.
