I can't see how Sanchez has any sort of chance of success in litigation, but I have a thought on his best prospect.
The federal discrimination laws only apply to persons over 40, there's no protection for younger workers as far as I know. And age isn't a protected class, constitutionally, so I don't see a discrimination suit going anywhere.
And an anti-trust action seems like a non-starter too. I looked into it real briefly but it appears courts are unanimous in holding that any eligibility rulings or restrictions are legal under anti-trust statutes because it doesn't involve any type of "business activity". The only areas where the NCAA has ever been ruled against is when they've limited coaches salaries or the ability of schools/conferences to make their own media contracts, or set ticket prices. Cts give a ton of deference to the NCAA on eligibility issues apparently. (anyone who wants to can have at it.. 845 F.2d at 1345-36; 101 F.3d at 1318-20 )
If he wanted to be creative though I think he could look to the state constitution or contract law.
Equal protection is a lot broader under NYS law, although I don't know the specifics. But, it would be worth looking into.
And, tell me what you guys think of this theory..
Agreements between the NCAA and it's member schools are enforceable contracts no? Assuming they are, that would include the NCAA's constitution and bylaws.
Wouldn't student athletes be intended beneficiaries of those contracts? And, therefore wouldn't they have the right to bring a contract action of their own as third party beneficiaries?
If he really wanted to reach, he could argue that by acting in bad faith, or being arbitrary/capricious in their decision, they breached.
Thoughts?
All in all though, I'd assume it's going nowhere unless his attorney is just trying to put public pressure on the ncaa.