Two years ago the NCAA hit ACU Athletics with a slew of violations the university was accused of committing in 2007. Many of the violations included what the NCAA deemed as “impermissible inducements.”

Since that time, the Department of Athletics has taken steps to improve the information available to fans, boosters and anyone the NCAA deems as “those with athletic interests.”

ACU Athletic Compliance Officer Barry Pupella suggests boosters and fans alike refer to the ACU Athletics website if and when they have questions about what is and is not allowed under NCAA bylaws.

“There is not much that is permissible,” Pupella said. “The laws go so far as to say that if it is not accessible to all students, it certainly is not for student athletes.”

One point of confusion is whom the NCAA considers an “athletic booster.”

The answer is, quite simply, just about everyone. Fans are classified as boosters, and whether or not you attend ACU sporting events or consider yourself a fan as a student, you are.

“It’s very unusual,” Pupella said. “If you’re a student at ACU you’re considered a booster – any staff member, faculty and anyone who has provided any support to athletics whatsoever.”

Even though the NCAA is incredibly restrictive on what boosters can and cannot provide, there are a few things that are allowed under bylaw 16, according to both Pupella and ACU athletic director Jared Mosely.

“There are things you can do like occasional meals in the home,” Mosely said. “We just try to make sure that it is usually no more than a couple times a month.”

The NCAA does not specifically outline what “occasional” means. It leaves that up to the individual institutions. Pupella said the Department of Athletics does ask that any booster or fan notify the department so it can have proper documentation of the event.

The department does direct mailing campaigns and frequent e-mails to educate fans and boosters about NCAA regulations, but Pupella said letting coaches, players and students know about the regulations is the first line of defense. He also said boosters, fans and anyone with athletic interests should call if any questions arise.

“Call us,” Pupella said. “That is the biggest thing. The golden rule of compliance is: always ask before you act.”

In addition to calling with any questions, more information about ACU’s compliance with NCAA standards and protocols can be found online at www.acusports.com/sports/2009/7/19/Compliance_Home.aspx.

Information regarding NCAA policies for athletes, students and coaches can be found online at www.ncaa.org/wps/wcm/connect/public/ncaa/issues.