Which of the following statements is true regarding coaches attending all-star contests in football?

The statement that a coach may attend but cannot contact athletes participating in all-star contests is accurate according to NCAA regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure fairness and maintain the amateur status of student-athletes. Coaches are permitted to observe talented athletes in an all-star setting; however, they are restricted from engaging in any form of direct communication with those athletes during the event itself. This rule is in place to avoid undue influence on the athletes' choices regarding recruitment or their future involvement in college athletics.

The other options either present a misunderstanding of these regulations or suggest contact at inappropriate times, which is typically not allowed under NCAA rules. Thus, the correct interpretation highlights the balance of observation and non-contact in the context of all-star contests.