Sports Agent Responsibility and Trust Act

The Sports Agent Responsibility and Trust Act (SPARTA) is a federal law designed to protect student-athletes from predatory or deceptive practices by sports agents. It prohibits agents from using false information, making misleading promises, or providing cash and gifts to athletes or their families to entice them into signing a contract.

For student-athletes and their families, the law requires agents to provide a clear written warning that signing a contract may cause the athlete to lose their eligibility to compete in college sports. Additionally, both the agent and the athlete must notify the school’s athletic director within 72 hours of signing an agreement to ensure transparency and protect the educational institution from potential sanctions. Violations are treated as unfair or deceptive business practices and can be prosecuted by the Federal Trade Commission or state attorneys general.