Imagine our surprise when we received a from Steven Sample and Mike Garrett today. It seems Stevie S. and Uncle Mike are hoping to edumacate us in the ways of NCAA recruitment compliance. I know, how cool of them, right? They’re good like that.

Full letter, with links to compliance guide and contact information, after the jump.

SUBJECT: Important Message from USC President Steven B. Sample and Director of Athletics Michael Garrett

Dear Alumni & Friends,

The University of Southern California is proud of its great tradition in intercollegiate athletics. We are committed to achieving in the classroom, while abiding by all National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) rules. Our athletic program would not be where it is today without the support of loyal alumni and friends like you. Your support is equally important to our compliance effort. As an NCAA member, USC is responsible for the actions of those whom the NCAA considers “representatives of its athletics interests,” traditionally known as boosters.

Click Here to view a guide that has been developed to provide you with the basic information concerning the NCAA rules, and to answer questions you may have regarding the recruitment of prospective student-athletes and contact with currently enrolled student-athletes. By assisting USC in rules compliance, you are helping preserve the integrity of Trojan Athletics, and protecting the athletic eligibility of our student-athletes. Indeed, if a well-meaning but misguided fan or booster commits a violation, USC will be held responsible, and the consequences can include bans on post-season competition and TV coverage.

Please review the guide and share the information with others who support Trojan Athletics. If you wish to print a copy for your records or to share with others, you will need to use legal size paper. The scope and complexity of NCAA rules preclude us from addressing every possible situation in a short guide like this. Feel free to contact the Compliance Office at (213) 740-3833 with additional questions you may have. Additional information about USC Compliance and NCAA rules may be found on our Web site at http://usctrojans.cstv.com/genrel/usc-recruiting-compliance.html.

The University appreciates alumni and friends who strive for the highest level of ethical conduct while supporting the goals of academic and athletic excellence for our student-athletes.

Sincerely,

Steven B. Sample
President

Michael L. Garrett
Director of Athletics