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College football briefs

Compiled from Times wires

© St. Petersburg Times, published January 19, 2001

Group calls for NCAA reforms

LOS ANGELES -- A group of former and current UCLA players, backed by the United Steelworkers of America, have formed what they hope will become a national movement to change NCAA rules regarding financial aid and benefits.

The Collegiate Athletes Coalition will seek an increase in monthly stipends, full health care coverage during the off-season and voluntary practices, and an increase in life insurance coverage.

The group also wants restrictions lifted on what jobs players can hold and how much they can earn in the off-season.

Players at other schools have expressed interest in joining forces, said Ramogi Huma, a former Bruins linebacker who is spearheading the drive.

He said the group is not a union and would not attempt to organize player strikes.

About 20 former and current Bruins players, plus USC alumnus and current NFL cornerback Daylon McCutcheon, attended the news conference at UCLA. Terry Bonds, the steelworkers union director in the Southwest, also was on hand.

The steelworkers union so far has given Huma and his group guidance in organizing.

Asked why the steelworkers were becoming involved, Bonds said, "These guys have strong issues. They make less than minimum wage."

FLORIDA STATE: Heisman Trophy winner Chris Weinke signed with the sports management agency IMG.

CORNELL: Tim Pendergast, Hamilton College's coach last season, replaces Pete Mangurian, who resigned Jan. 7 to become the Atlanta Falcons' offensive line coach.

MIAMI: Butch Davis and the university have agreed to the financial terms that will keep him as coach, but questions about a buyout clause have prevented Davis from signing his new deal.

OHIO STATE: As expected, Jim Tressel, who led Youngstown State to four I-AA national titles in 15 years, was named coach. "Had we not won those four championships, I would not be here," Tressel said.

TENNESSEE: Defensive end Will Overstreet had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee to repair torn cartilage. He should be fully recovered by the start of spring practice in late March.

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