The Teddy Bridgewater Act, a bill aimed at increasing funding and support for student-athletes at schools like Florida High, is now headed back to the Senate for a final vote.
The bill is named for Teddy Bridgewater, a well‑known NFL quarterback from Florida who previously coached a high school football team and was suspended by the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) for spending $28,000 of his own money to support his players. The proposed law was inspired by that situation and aims to support student-athletes across Florida.
If passed, the Teddy Bridgewater Act would allow coaches to spend up to $15,000 on their athletes without facing suspension. Supporters say the funding could be used for improved equipment, stronger safety gear and other resources that enhance sports programs.
Athletic Director Anthony Robinson said the bill could help coaches better support their athletes.
“It’s good to know that a coach won’t be fired for trying to improve the betterment of a kid in a program and their opportunities,” Robinson said.
Supporters of the legislation say it would allow coaches to focus more on helping students succeed and less on worrying about strict spending limits. While the Senate has unanimously approved the bill and the House has passed it with amendments, the act must still return to the Senate for another vote before it can move to the governor’s desk.
Students also believe the legislation could make a difference for athletes whose families struggle to afford the costs associated with sports.
“It would allow those who aren’t financially stable to play, to make it easier for them,” senior wrestler Sterling Hollingsworth said.
Supporters say the bill could help more students participate in athletics without worrying about the cost of equipment or other expenses. If passed, schools could invest more in safety gear and athletic resources, making sports more accessible for students from a wider range of financial backgrounds.
Overall, the Teddy Bridgewater Act has the potential to make high school athletics safer and more accessible for student-athletes across Florida.
