Court rules some college athletes could be employees

In a landmark decision, an appeals court ruled on Thursday that some college athletes who benefit their schools may qualify as employees and cannot be denied payment under federal wage-and-hour laws.

The ruling poses a significant challenge to the NCAA’s long-standing concept of “amateurism” in college sports and allows a lawsuit by former Villanova football player Ralph “Trey” Johnson and others to proceed.

The court further demanded the need for a test to identify students who play for fun and those whose efforts legally constitute work.

The case, which was dismissed by a district judge, involves Division I athletes seeking fair pay similar to work-study programs, and it will now go back to trial for further consideration.