NIL glossary
What is SPARTA?
The Sports Agent Responsibility and Trust Act (SPARTA) is the federal law, passed in 2004, that bars athlete agents from false or misleading promises, from giving anything of value to recruit a student-athlete, and from failing to give required warnings in agency contracts.
On this page
In detail
SPARTA applies in every state, alongside state athlete agent laws. Several state NIL statutes, including California's and New York's, require agents representing athletes in NIL matters to comply with it. The Federal Trade Commission enforces it, and Executive Order 14400 directed the FTC to act against unfair or deceptive agent practices.
Frequently asked questions
Does SPARTA apply to NIL agents?
Yes. It applies to agents recruiting or soliciting student-athletes, and several state NIL laws require compliance with it.
Sources
- California Education Code § 67456 — FindLaw (California Code)
- New York Education Law § 6438-C — The New York State Senate
- Executive Order 14400, Urgent National Action To Save College Sports — U.S. Government Publishing Office
This is general information, not legal advice. NIL rules differ by state, school, association and sport, and they change often. Check the official sources linked on this page and talk with your school's compliance office, your state association or a licensed attorney before you sign anything.