Which of the following is correct about a prospective student-athlete's amateur status?

In the context of NCAA rules, a prospective student-athlete must maintain their amateur status to compete in college athletics. Amateur status is essential because it ensures that athletes are not deemed professionals and can thus participate in NCAA-sanctioned events. Preserving amateur status is critical for eligibility; if a student-athlete engages in activities that violate this status, such as receiving payment for athletic performance or signing a contract with an agent, they risk losing their ability to compete at the collegiate level.

This foundational principle supports fair competition and the integrity of college sports, emphasizing that athletes are students first and competing in a collegiate environment rather than a professional one. This is why maintaining amateur status is a primary requirement for prospective student-athletes in NCAA sports.