A Model for a Policy on HIV/AIDS and Athletics

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected athletes exist at the collegiate level and are engaging in competitive sports, as was revealed by a 1993 NCAA survey. Unfortunately, there is a void when the issue of policy for the HIV- positive athlete and his or her participation rights at the collegiate level is addressed. Given the controversial nature of opinion on HIV and the resultant acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), it is recommended that a policy be in place for an HIV-infected athlete before it is needed. Ithaca College has recently developed such a policy, and it is offered here to other educational institutions as a model. It is emphasized throughout the policy that HIV-positive athletes should not be restricted from athletic participation for the reason of infection alone, that strict confidentiality guidelines should be followed, and that mandatory testing of athletes for HIV is not justified.