News Summary
The University of Central Florida is set to invest up to $20.5 million annually in student-athlete revenue sharing starting July 1, as a result of a recent settlement that allows schools to compensate athletes directly. This move is part of a broader shift in college athletics following a $2.8 billion NCAA settlement, aimed at enhancing competition and providing new opportunities for student-athletes, particularly women. UCF’s strategic allocation includes funding new scholarships and adapting to upcoming NCAA rule changes.
Orlando, FL – The University of Central Florida (UCF) is set to invest up to $20.5 million annually in student-athlete revenue sharing, beginning on July 1, 2025, as announced by athletic director Terry Mohajir on June 11, 2025. This groundbreaking decision will allow UCF to engage fully in a new revenue-sharing model following a recent settlement that permits schools to compensate student-athletes directly.
The announcement follows federal Judge Claudia Wilken’s approval on June 7 of a $2.8 billion settlement regarding a lawsuit against the NCAA, aimed at addressing lost Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation for student-athletes from 2016 to 2025. UCF’s participation in this financial distribution aligns it with the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly as the NCAA prepares to implement new rules that change how financial aid is allocated and how athletes are compensated.
With the launch of the NCAA’s “NIL Go” portal on the same day as UCF’s announcement, schools will begin making direct payments to student-athletes, commencing from July 1. This framework is expected to reshape negotiations and agreements between programs and athletes, fostering a new competitive environment in college sports.
Financial Details and Athletic Investments
UCF has proactive plans for the allocation of its revenue-sharing funds, with $3 million earmarked for the creation of 74 new scholarships. Notably, the university will dedicate 60% of these scholarships to women’s sports programs to enhance gender equity in athletics. This decision reflects UCF’s commitment to fostering growth and opportunities in women’s sports while adapting to the new financial model.
In terms of financial projections, during its first year in the Big 12 Conference (2023-2024), UCF reported approximately $21 million in revenue. Once the revenue-sharing model takes effect in 2025-26, the university anticipates receiving a full-share payout from the Big 12, estimated to range between $37.8 million to $42.1 million annually. Nevertheless, UCF expects its revenue distributions may face declines over the next decade due to the NCAA settlement’s implications.
Changing Landscape in College Athletics
The shift to roster limits instead of scholarship limits, announced by NCAA President Charlie Baker, will introduce more flexibility for schools in managing their recruiting and financial strategies. Football rosters will be capped at 105 players, while basketball and baseball rosters will see slight adjustments. These changes are designed to facilitate a more equitable distribution of scholarships across all sports, particularly benefiting women’s programs.
UCF has been preparing for these upcoming changes, with strategies in place to align with other institutions within the Big 12 conference. This preparation is crucial as UCF navigates the adjustments required by the new revenue-sharing model and the broader NCAA guidelines regarding student-athlete compensation.
Conclusion and Future Directions
The university’s commitment to investing significantly in student-athlete revenue sharing marks a substantial shift in collegiate athletics, emphasizing a fairer compensation model. As UCF embarks on this new journey beginning in 2025, the institution aims to not only enhance the experience of its student-athletes but also redefine its competitive stance within the collegiate sports landscape. This initiative represents a pivotal moment for UCF as it continues to evolve within the increasingly challenging world of college athletics.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
NCAA Settlement Approved: A New Era for College Athletics
UCF University Launches Competitive Success Fund for Athletes
Additional Resources
- Orlando Sentinel: UCF Changing Name of Football Stadium
- News Journal Online: UCF Knights NCAA House Settlement Explained
- Fox61: New Roster Limits Shake Up College Football
- MyNews13: Big 12 Announces UCF’s 2025 Football Schedule
- Nicholson Student Media: NIL Revenue Sharing Changes
- Wikipedia: College athletics in the United States
- Google Search: UCF student-athlete revenue sharing
- Google Scholar: NCAA settlement NIL
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NCAA
- Google News: UCF football schedule
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
