Sports Gambling Revenue to Pay Coaches? | NC State commit Aiden Smalls

In the first-ever episode of the Varsity Views Podcast, we’re tackling one of the most significant issues in North Carolina high school sports: coaches’ pay.Sen. Sophia Chitlik (Durham) joined the show to discuss her bill that would set aside $11 million in tax revenue from sports betting to ensure all full-time middle and high school coaches in North Carolina can make at least $3,000 in supplemental income for their work.Right now, at least 77 school districts have average coaching supplements that are below the $3,000 threshold.Sen. Chitlik discussed why she believes this bill is essential, the bipartisan support it has, where it stands in the legislative process, and why she thinks investing in high school sports (and coaches) is essential for the community.Side Note: Sen. Chitlik’s district was significantly impacted by flooding in early July. If you’d like to assist the nearly 100 people who were displaced and the many others who suffered property damage, the senator recommends Day One Relief Fund and Triangle Mutual Aid.Clayton QB Aiden Smalls flips to NC StateAiden Smalls is a talented, dual-threat quarterback at Clayton High School who passed for nearly 2,000 yards and rushed for more than 1,000 yards last season as a junior.Smalls originally committed to Rice, he says, because they promised a shot at playing quarterback, his preferred position. However, after an official visit to NC State, Smalls flipped his commitment. He won’t be playing quarterback for the Wolfpack, but he still believes he will be a playmaker.Got suggestions?Let us know what you think about the podcast, share your ideas for future episodes, or make recommendations for stories and guests. Email Nick Stevens at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.Subscribe to the Varsity Views Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and the Varsity NC YouTube page. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.varsitync.com