Final answer:
The NCAA has a strict policy against alcohol advertisement, sales, and consumption at events, reflective of a commitment to discourage underage and excessive drinking, and closely aligns with the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984.
Step-by-step explanation:
The NCAA's policy regarding alcohol and college sports is quite clear: it prohibits alcohol advertisements during its championships and has strict regulations against alcohol sales and consumption at NCAA events to promote a healthy and safe environment. This stance is a part of the effort to discourage underage drinking and excessive alcohol consumption among college students. The National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 supports these regulations by requiring states to maintain a minimum legal drinking age of 21, further reinforcing the NCAA's policy on alcohol.
Moreover, college athletes are expected to maintain a certain level of conduct, which includes refraining from the use of illegal drugs and irresponsible use of alcohol. Infractions can lead to suspension or other penalties, similar to the case where a student athlete, Ryan, faced suspension from both the game and school due to a positive drug test for marijuana, highlighting the emphasis on clean sportsmanship.
The policy also ties into broader conversations about the impact of athletics on academic performance and the debate over compensating student athletes, where the relationship between sports participation and study habits is often scrutinized.