It's not a problem as long as they keep it to "actual and necessary expenses" for the athlete and it comes from a permissible source (e.g. team, not an agent). NCAA also set a threshold of $300 in 2013 so they don't have to pursue penny-ante stuff (e.g. t-shirts, etc.).
12.02.2 Actual and Necessary Expenses. Actual and necessary expenses are limited to: (Adopted: 1/19/13 effective 8/1/13)
(a) Meals;
(b) Lodging;
(c) Apparel, equipment and supplies;
(d) Coaching and instruction;
(e) Health/medical insurance;
(f) Transportation (expenses to and from practice and competition, cost of transportation from home to training/practice site at the beginning of the season/preparation for an event and from training/practice/event site to home at the end of season/event);
(g) Medical treatment and physical therapy;
(h) Facility usage;
(i) Entry fees; and
(j) Other reasonable expenses.
12.02.2.1 Application. Unless otherwise permitted by the NCAA constitution or bylaws, actual and necessary expenses may be provided only if such expenses are for competition on a team or in a specific event or for practice that is directly related to such competition. The value of such expenses must be commensurate with the fair market value of similar goods and services in the locality in which the expenses are provided and must not be excessive in nature. Actual and necessary expenses shall not include the expenses or fees of anyone other than the individual who participates as a member of the team or in a specific event. (Adopted: 1/19/13 effective 8/1/13)
...
12.02.5 Limited Benefit - Prior to Initial Full-Time Enrollment at an NCAA Institution - Expenses from a Permissible Source. Prior to initial full-time enrollment at an NCAA institution, if an individual receives expenses from a permissible source (e.g., event sponsor, club team) that exceed his or her actual and necessary expenses by $300 or less, the eligibility of the individual shall not be affected. Adopted: 1/19/13 effective 8/1/13)
