I think you are right.
I went to USC in the mid 80s and seem to remember that. Of course, I didn’t get to see any games, nor, did I get to see the Gamecocks play, I was trying to pass my classes.
There are several collegiate summer leagues throughout the country. The players have summer jobs and play for a team to get additional experience. There are a couple of these leagues near me. They’re kind of fun.