Seeking Pro Bono Legal Support for NCAA Appeal - Travis Chestnut

29,401 Views | 170 Replies | Last: 19 days ago by Positivelyag512
swimmerbabe11
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I don't think her response to KevMiller was rude ?

AngryAg is a troll and she shouldn't have responded to his bit, but meh, newbies to the forum gonna newbie
AgRyan04
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DWren said:

cheeky said:

Aschenbeck moved on and was an elite talent who wanted to come back. And we desperately wanted him back. Sometimes things don't work out like you hope and a new opportunity is around the corner.


This
And did his parents take the ncaa to court and ask for financial assistance? Nope

Sorry Mrs chestnut but when another poster gave his opinion and in a very polite and genuine manner. you responded with rude and inmature undertones.
His opinion was valid also , not everybody will agree but you responded with smart ass remarks and attacked him on things he didn't even say or suggest.


You took it to a new level.


He had already signed with the Cubs by the time the court ruling came out
powerbelly
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AG
swimmerbabe11 said:

I don't think her response to KevMiller was rude ?

AngryAg is a troll and she shouldn't have responded to his bit, but meh, newbies to the forum gonna newbie


She is 100% being condescending while asking for potentially hundreds of thousands in free legal work. It is a horrible look at best.
DWren
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swimmerbabe11 said:

I don't think her response to KevMiller was rude ?

AngryAg is a troll and she shouldn't have responded to his bit, but meh, newbies to the forum gonna newbie


She told him " people like you don't intimidate my son"
There was nothing in that dude's post that deserved that type of response

Then when she said " if he gets his year back don't ask him for his autograph"

That's about as inmature response as one can have

Again one poster asked a genuine valid question and got a response like he was the bad guy from an overprotective parent.
It was unwarranted
Eliminatus
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AG
Jesus. This whole thread was Aggie'ed up real good. Only product worse than Aggies on the field, is Aggies online I swear. Overanalyzing everything to death behind "superior" morals and smacking each others peepees.
Vepp
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If I was asking for tens of thousands in legal work done for free I wouldn't be so defensive.
greg.w.h
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AG
I appreciate Amy staying graceful. The NCAA and the member institutions made a game out of "fairness" since it's founding. And they are paying a set of huge prices for their arrogance.

I'll note that the School of Law might have some eager beaver attorneys-to-be who might be able to help. But I have no clue if our school has the right background for this kind of litigation and keep in mind that if you involve the school at all, likely they are prevented from helping.

I'll also note that as one attorney I know put it, it's a LEGAL system not a JUSTICE system. :P
Long range Ag
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AG
Geeze guys give her a break! No harm in seeing if someone might see her post and be moved to respond. Very reasonable for a mother supporting her son to do. I support her right to ask and see where it lands. In fact, if she started a go fund me I personally would support. Chestnut is the type of person I like to support. Stop shredding his mother on the internet and questioning his desire to play another year!!
shalackin
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AG
Rule 1
Inca
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AG
If I'm understanding correctly, he's already graduated from A&M and has played six seasons of college baseball (3 at JUCO, 2 at A&M and this past season at D2.)

If all of the above is correct, it does seem time to move on and be grateful for the additional opportunities he's already been able to take advantage of. It's confusing to me why any athlete feels like they should have endless years of eligibility.

I hope you both find whatever closure you need for this chapter of life.
phatbc
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Eliminatus said:

Jesus. This whole thread was Aggie'ed up real good. Only product worse than Aggies on the field, is Aggies online I swear. Overanalyzing everything to death behind "superior" morals and smacking each others peepees.
This is the curse that is failing us in all our sports. Not sure it will ever change…
amychestnut
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At what point was I rude or "took it to another level"? I came here simply to see if any fellow Aggies could offer support for my son, who worked his tail off, represented this university with heart, and now has to fight for the chance to finish his career the way he earned.

Everyone has a right to their opinion, and so do I. Why is it okay for someone else to share theirs, but the second I speak mine, suddenly it's labeled immature or an attack? That makes no sense. I'm allowed to respond, especially when my son's situation is being misunderstood or dismissed.

We're not asking for handouts or special favors. We're asking for fairness, something that has been granted to other athletes in similar situations. Unfortunately, we don't have thousands of dollars lying around to spend on attorneys. But that doesn't mean we don't deserve to fight. If we were wealthy and had high-powered lawyers, would it suddenly be more acceptable? Would Travis be more deserving of another year? That mindset is crazy.

And just to be clear, we actually know the Aschenbecks. We're friends. I spoke directly with Carrie, Evan's mom, often about the waiver. Evan was denied just a few weeks before Travis. If he hadn't been drafted, I'm pretty sure he'd be fighting the NCAA just like we are. He likely would have gone DII too, because he wanted to keep playing the game he loves. Before Evan got drafted, he was considering legal representation, but they were also worried about the money for an attorney, his mother and I spoke about it often about how we didn't know what to do. Evan and his family are great people. I'm extremely proud of him and happy for his accomplishments, and I continue to follow his professional career with full support.

So before you accuse me of crossing a line, maybe take a minute to learn the full story. When you actually know the facts, your comment might come across more educated. Until then, I'll keep doing what any mother would do, fighting for her son.
powerbelly
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AG

Quote:

We're not asking for handouts or special favors
To be clear, you 100% are asking for handouts or special favors. This litigation could cost mid-six figures or more and you want that for free.

Quote:


But that doesn't mean we don't deserve to fight. If we were wealthy and had high-powered lawyers, would it suddenly be more acceptable?
Yes, because its your money, not someone else's.
BaseballAggie13
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This thread is more embarrassing than last night's loss
amychestnut
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You know what's unwarranted? Questioning a mother for defending her son, especially when she's watching him be pushed aside by a system that's granted others the same opportunity he's now fighting for.

Let's be honest. That original comment might have sounded polite, but it carried the same undertone we've seen too many times, minimizing what my son is going through, questioning his right to even try, and painting him as selfish for fighting to finish what he started. So yes, I responded with passion, because I'm tired of watching athletes like Travis get dismissed while others are applauded for doing the same thing.

The "people like you don't intimidate my son" comment wasn't immature, it was truth. Travis has played on the biggest stage in college baseball. With that comes not just supporters but critics, haters, and endless opinions from people who have never walked in his shoes. He's been passed over time and time again. He's been picked apart by online trolls and "people with opinions" who think they know better. That's exactly where that comment came from. If outside voices and criticism intimidated him, he wouldn't be where he is today.

And as for the autograph comment...it was sarcasm! But it was also a reminder not to count someone out just because you don't understand their journey. It wasn't about being petty. It was about making a point that confidence in yourself shouldn't be mistaken for arrogance.

I'm not here to sugarcoat or win a popularity contest. I'm a mom fighting for her son's future. If standing up boldly bothers some people, so be it. We're used to being underestimated.

And Yes, I am a newbie here, someone suggested posting on here to see if I got any responses, so I tried. This isn't our only option or try. We actually have a lawyer in the family, but he doesn't specialize in this. So, I just put it out there to see if we got any responses that could help lead us. I have learned quickly that not all Aggies are nice! lol I need to get better at the "sometimes no response is the best response"! My mama bear comes out sometimes!
AJCB
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AG
This is why I should stay on the politics forum.
amychestnut
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Let me be very clear, we are not asking someone to take on a full-blown lawsuit for free. We are seeking legal assistance, guidance, and support from professionals who understand NCAA procedures and athlete rights.
We're asking for help to:
  • File an appeal or petition for reconsideration with the NCAA, citing new case precedent and changes in waiver policy;
  • Explore whether a legal challenge is even viable, based on inconsistent rule enforcement, potential antitrust issues, and the economic harm caused by the denial;
  • Understand our best options, whether administrative, legal, or advocacy-based, so we can move forward with clarity.
This is not about handouts. This is about navigating a complex system that shouldn't only be accessible to families with deep pockets. We're doing our due diligence, just like anyone else in our position would. And no one should be faulted for trying to find the best path forward for their child.
powerbelly
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AG
No one is questioning your son, his desire to keep playing, or your fight for him.

dabo man
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AG
Quote:

This is why I should stay on the politics forum.
This little gem did not go unnoticed.
dabo man
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AG
Quote:

If I'm understanding correctly, he's already graduated from A&M and has played six seasons of college baseball (3 at JUCO, 2 at A&M and this past season at D2.)

If all of the above is correct, it does seem time to move on and be grateful for the additional opportunities he's already been able to take advantage of. It's confusing to me why any athlete feels like they should have endless years of eligibility.

I hope you both find whatever closure you need for this chapter of life.
This was very well stated.
Bondag
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AG
Lawyers are required for this because guys like Chestnut and Aschenbeck tried to do things the right way and got denied, when others with the exact same issues were granted another year to play.

If the NCAA actually had set rules you wouldn't need a lawyer to allow players the same eligibility granted to other JUCO players.

Travis likely won't make the big leagues, but that doesn't mean he shouldn't have another year at A&M.
amychestnut
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Just to clarify a few things because a lot of assumptions are being made.

Yes, Travis played 2 years at JUCO, 2 years at Texas A&M, and 1 year at DII after being denied a waiver by the NCAA. But this isn't about "endless eligibility." It's about fairness and consistency. Athletes in nearly identical situations, same number of seasons, same JUCO path, same COVID impact, have received a sixth year. Travis didn't, simply because his waiver came before the NCAA issued a blanket policy adjustment. That's not due process, that's bad timing.

We're not asking anyone to take on a full-blown lawsuit for free. We're asking for legal guidance on how to appeal, petition for reconsideration, or explore other administrative and advocacy-based options through the NCAA. We want clarity, not a courtroom battle.

From a legal perspective, when rules are applied inconsistently, especially in situations with identical circumstances, it raises legitimate concerns about disparate treatment and arbitrary enforcement. When the NCAA creates policies and then applies them retroactively for some and not others, it undermines trust in the system. Add in the economic harm from missed NIL opportunities and draft exposure, and it's even more significant. That's what we're trying to address, not with emotion, but with facts.

Also, let's talk about the value of a sixth-year senior. In today's game, especially with the chaos of the transfer portal, guys like Travis are crucial. They bring leadership, maturity, and stability to a team. Travis has played on the biggest stage in college baseball. He knows what it takes to win and what it means to represent Texas A&M. Having him back next year would strengthen the locker room, support the younger guys, and bring experience most teams are desperate to have.

It's also ironic that some are quick to criticize the current performance of the team but then want to dismiss players like Travis who are trying to return and help lead the charge toward a national championship and play for a coach that he believes in. You can't demand excellence and then reject the players (or coach) who are willing to stay and fight for it.

If this fight helps future athletes navigate these gray areas and brings clarity to inconsistent policies, then it's worth every bit of the effort. Travis isn't asking for special treatment, he's asking for equal treatment. That's not entitlement. That's accountability and advocacy for athletes who deserve a fair system.

The purpose of my post was simply to ask the Aggie community if anyone knew someone who could help. I believe I've accomplished that, and I'll wait to see if someone reaches out directly. Thank you to those who understand what we're standing for. Gig 'em.
amychestnut
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I said I wouldn't comment but I think this is important to explain: That's not accurate. Travis played 2 years at JUCO, followed by 2 years at Texas A&M. He submitted a waiver request to receive a 5th year at A&M, but the NCAA denied it, stating he could only use that year at the Division II level or below. So, to continue playing, he transferred to St. Edward's and completed his 5th year there. He took 12 hours at SEU to be eligible and 12 hours online to finish his degree at A&M.

Shortly after, the Pavia case emerged, and the NCAA responded by creating a new waiver allowing JUCO athletes in similar situations to complete their 5th, and even 6th, year at the Division I level.

Travis was essentially forced to use his 5th year at the DII level due to the initial denial, while others after him received the DI opportunity he was denied.

Now, we are requesting that the NCAA reopen and review his case in light of the new waiver policy and legal precedent. For that, we need an attorney to help us formally file the appeal and ensure his case is presented properly.
amychestnut
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read my response and correction to this statement to get a better idea of the whole picture.
AggieBaseball06
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AG
Quote:

Let's ask the real question. Do athletes like Diego Pavia and others deserve to be on the field for a sixth year, or are they selfish for taking a spot from an 18-year-old freshman?


Not to derail this thread but since you asked, I don't think anyone should be playing college sports for 6 years. 5 years to play 4 seems to work just fine. College athletics is a privilege that most people don't get to partake in and is heavily supported by donations, unlike professional sports. College athletes should enjoy their 1-5 years and move on with life.
amychestnut
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DWren said:

swimmerbabe11 said:

I don't think her response to KevMiller was rude ?

AngryAg is a troll and she shouldn't have responded to his bit, but meh, newbies to the forum gonna newbie


She told him " people like you don't intimidate my son"
There was nothing in that dude's post that deserved that type of response

Then when she said " if he gets his year back don't ask him for his autograph"

That's about as inmature response as one can have

Again one poster asked a genuine valid question and got a response like he was the bad guy from an overprotective parent.
It was unwarranted
but saying: "I understand frustration but parents going after the NCAA in courts and posting for pro bono help on an Internet forum just seem a little desperate and juvenile." is not rude? It's a genuine valid question? Ha Ha Ha give me a break! That was rude and attacking and completely wrong.
Bondag
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AG
Everyone in college or high school the last 5 years has had at least one year of training interrupted. If some of them are granted an extra year why fault a mom from coming on here and making a request?
Chris98
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AG
With the new JUCO rule, someone could spend two years in JUCO, redshirt, medical redshirt, and then 4 years of eligibility..... that's eight years of college baseball.
HillCountry15
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&ct=g
cheeky
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AG
something about leaving while they still want you seems appropriate here
amychestnut
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AggieBaseball06 said:

Quote:

Let's ask the real question. Do athletes like Diego Pavia and others deserve to be on the field for a sixth year, or are they selfish for taking a spot from an 18-year-old freshman?


Not to derail this thread but since you asked, I don't think anyone should be playing college sports for 6 years. 5 years to play 4 seems to work just fine. College athletics is a privilege that most people don't get to partake in and is heavily supported by donations, unlike professional sports. College athletes should enjoy their 1-5 years and move on with life.
Totally understand where you're coming from, but just to offer another perspective, the NCAA is the one making these changes, not the athletes. And when new rules are introduced, it's only fair that athletes are allowed to follow them. Why would someone walk away, enter the workforce, and settle for an outdated rule when the updated one gives them a real chance to keep playing? Why wouldn't they want one more year doing what they love, playing the game they've worked their whole life for, especially at one of the best universities in the country?

In Travis' case, he can start his master's program while continuing to play, then enter the workforce after. Getting your college degree, your master's, and playing ball at a high level, that's something special. Why would anyone walk away from that kind of opportunity if it's still within reach?

If he gets denied ok, it was worth the try, if he gets accepted then even better. He's 23 and starting his master's regardless, why not play ball too?
amychestnut
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cheeky said:

something about leaving while they still want you seems appropriate here
Leaving while they still want you is one thing...but leaving when other schools still want you too? That's just unfinished business.
kevmiller
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This thread further confirms a theory I've had for years….. all baseball parents are completly nuts

Carry on …
amychestnut
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powerbelly said:

No one is questioning your son, his desire to keep playing, or your fight for him.


So passion and persistence are fine, as long as they come with a platinum Amex? Got it.
powerbelly
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AG
amychestnut said:

powerbelly said:

No one is questioning your son, his desire to keep playing, or your fight for him.


So passion and persistence are fine, as long as they come with a platinum Amex? Got it.


Pretty much. Life ain't fair.
 
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