Cannabis and Athletic Recovery: New NCAA Research Suggests a Changing Tide For Cannabis
As cannabis continues to gain recognition for its therapeutic potential, a recent study supported by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is shedding new light on how athletes are already using it—and how that might shape the future of cannabis in health and wellness.
At Genesis Farms, South Dakota’s top-ranking cannabis company, we’ve long believed in the power of the plant. Our mission is rooted in education, innovation, and wellness—and this study adds meaningful weight to the idea that cannabis can be an effective, natural solution for managing pain and supporting recovery.
New NCAA-Funded Research Points to Positive Findings
According to a study cited in Marijuana Moment¹, more than 3,500 student-athletes across NCAA Division I, II, and III schools were surveyed to explore their cannabis usage, especially in relation to pain management. What researchers found was compelling: a significant number of athletes reported positive outcomes using marijuana to manage physical pain.
In the words of the researchers:
“Findings suggest that, in general, cannabis use is associated with positive outcomes for managing pain symptoms among student-athlete users.”
This isn’t just anecdotal evidence—it’s data coming directly from one of the most conservative sectors in regard to cannabis use: collegiate sports. The study was funded through the NCAA’s Substance Use and Abuse Strategic Task Force, showing that even mainstream institutions are beginning to ask serious questions about the plant's potential.
What Does This Mean for the Cannabis Industry?
This is more than just another research paper. It could signal a shift in how cannabis is viewed across sports, medicine, and regulatory frameworks.
Historically, cannabis has been lumped in with banned substances, both at the professional and collegiate levels. Even as state laws have evolved, athletes have faced suspensions, fines, and even career setbacks due to cannabis use. But this study may provide a foundation for rethinking outdated policies.
What we’re witnessing is the beginning of a possible transformation in how cannabis is utilized—not just by athletes, but by anyone seeking natural alternatives to pain relief.
A Safer Future for Pain Management?
One of the most encouraging takeaways from this study is the potential for cannabis to serve as a safer alternative to prescription painkillers, which are commonly used (and often overused) by athletes. Opioids come with a long list of risks, including addiction and long-term health consequences.
The study doesn’t just highlight usage—it spotlights positive results, with many athletes noting improvements in their symptoms. While researchers emphasized the need for more controlled research, this could pave the way for broader clinical trials and future guidelines that embrace cannabis as part of a holistic approach to recovery.
Our Commitment at Genesis Farms
As the conversation evolves, Genesis Farms will remain at the forefront—offering premium products, educating our community, and supporting scientific research that demystifies cannabis.
We’re not just growing cannabis—we’re growing trust, understanding, and access to safe, consistent, and high-quality ways cannabis can play a meaningful role in your journey.
We welcome this new research, and we’re hopeful for what it means—not just for athletes, but for all cannabis users who believe in cannabis
Stay connected with us here at Genesis Farms as we continue to explore and share new developments in cannabis science, legislation, and innovation.
Footnote
¹ “Marijuana Demonstrated Positive Findings For Managing Pain In NCAA Athletes, New Research Says.” Marijuana Moment, March 22, 2025. https://www.marijuanamoment.net/marijuana-demonstrated-positive-findings-for-managing-pain-in-ncaa-athletes-new-research-says/