Ohis Asein faksmedia.com
Worldwide Scholarships (WWS) has reaffirmed its commitment to athlete protection, NCAA compliance and transparent representation, following recent discussions within the Nigerian athletics community concerning athlete contracts, representation and eligibility.
In a detailed public statement, WWS said it welcomed legitimate concerns about the welfare and protection of young athletes, while stressing that its operations are structured around the NCAA pathway and the academic development of student-athletes.
The organisation clarified that its agreements are student-athlete management contracts and not World Athletics agent contracts, with contract duration structured around the athlete’s scholarship and collegiate pathway.
According to WWS, its model is designed to ensure continuity of support throughout an athlete’s university career while remaining within applicable NCAA eligibility and compliance requirements.
WWS: We Do Not Act as Professional Agents for NCAA Athletes
WWS explained that NCAA participation is governed by strict rules covering eligibility, amateurism, recruiting, NIL activities, international students, scholarships and immigration compliance.
The organisation said it does not act as a professional agent for NCAA athletes and that professional representation is only introduced when an athlete makes the deliberate decision to transition into professional sport.
“Where an athlete chooses to pursue a professional career, WWS transitions them to a World Athletics-certified agent,” the organisation stated, stressing that the arrangement is intended to preserve the athlete’s collegiate eligibility until that transition takes place.
WWS added that its compliance process involves NCAA Bylaws 12, 13 and 14, NIL legislation, SEVIS requirements and coordination with university compliance offices.
Protection of Young Athletes
On the representation of minors, WWS said it operates under international safeguarding principles.
Athletes aged 18 and above are encouraged to obtain independent legal advice before signing agreements, while athletes under 18 require the consent and co-signature of their legal guardians.
The organisation said the approach is intended to ensure that athletes and their families understand their contractual rights and obligations before entering into agreements.
Broader Athlete Management Services
Beyond scholarship placement, WWS said its services cover several aspects of an athlete’s development, including NIL advisory, sponsorship negotiations, branding and publicity, university placement, scholarship coordination, NCAA compliance guidance, immigration and visa support, and career planning.
The organisation also said it provides a support network for coaches whose athletes are seeking opportunities abroad.
Through this network, coaches can receive guidance on NCAA, NAIA and NJCAA pathways, documentation, eligibility requirements, international recruitment and other processes involved in helping athletes secure opportunities overseas.
International Partnerships and NCAA Claims
WWS further highlighted its international collaborations, including a soccer development collaboration with the AC Milan Technical Centre, alongside relationships with other international sports organisations and academies.
The organisation also stated that it has historically been recognised as an NCAA-approved recruiting service in Africa and said its presence within university compliance networks has helped build credibility in connecting African athletes with U.S. collegiate opportunities.
WWS Responds to Recent Criticism
While acknowledging the importance of questions surrounding athlete contracts and representation, WWS said it would challenge what it considers to be inaccurate or defamatory claims through appropriate channels rather than engaging in public confrontation.
The organisation encouraged athletes and their families to ask questions, seek independent legal advice, request clarification and fully understand their rights before signing any agreement.
“WWS is here to stay,” the organisation declared, reiterating its mission and vision of “Empowering Talent in Africa.”
The statement comes as WWS continues to expand its activities in Nigeria, with former Nigerian athletics star Mary Onyali serving as its Nigeria Representative.
WWS said its focus remains on transparency, athlete protection, compliance and creating legitimate international pathways for African talent.
For further information, WWS directs athletes, coaches and stakeholders to its official website, www.worldwidescholarships.com, or its social media platforms.
Nigeria Representative: Mary Onyali
Email: nigeria@worldwidescholarships.com
