### Bryan Seeley Takes Helm of New College Sports Commission

In a significant move for college athletics, Bryan Seeley has been appointed to lead the newly formed College Sports Commission, a body overseen by commissioners from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC. The commission, created to navigate the evolving landscape of college sports, will place regulation of athlete payments under Seeley's purview.

Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti, who previously worked with Seeley in Major League Baseball (MLB), expressed confidence in the appointment. "Bryan brings unwavering integrity and a wealth of relevant experience to his new role," Petitti and his fellow commissioners remarked in a joint statement. They emphasized their anticipation for his leadership as college sports transitions into a new era.

Though the NCAA will continue to enforce eligibility and academic rules, Seeley is tasked with ensuring fair and regulated compensation for college athletes. His extensive background at MLB, where he advanced to Executive Vice President for Legal and Operations, uniquely positions him for this role. Seeley was instrumental in leading several high-profile investigations in MLB, such as the sign-stealing scandal involving the Houston Astros and Boston Red Sox, and the sexual assault allegations against former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer.

Seeley's departure marks a notable loss for MLB, though Moira Weinberg, the league's Senior Vice President for Investigations, is expected to maintain stability within the Department of Investigations. Over the years, Seeley's responsibilities expanded significantly, including heading MLB's efforts in formulating sports gambling policies and managing operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The establishment of the College Sports Commission reflects a strategic shift in collegiate athletics governance. The NCAA's traditional approach has faced challenges, with some schools increasingly resistant—often supported by state attorneys general—to NCAA enforcement. The new commission aims to provide more rigorous and independent oversight.

Leaders of the power conferences are urging member schools to commit in writing to adhere to the commission's enforcement decisions, which will involve the use of outside mediators. This approach parallels the transformation seen in MLB’s Department of Investigations, which under Seeley’s guidance, moved towards a more legally rigorous structure.

As a former federal prosecutor specializing in white-collar fraud and public corruption, Seeley brings a strong legal acumen to his new position. The sports world will be watching closely to see how his expertise reshapes the governance of college athletics.