Beginning July 1, 2021, under new NCAA / NJCAA interim policies, student-athletes will be able to capitalize on their personal brands with monetary compensation for the use of their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). As with all new policies, it is important for student-athletes to understand how these new guidelines can benefit them without compromising their NCAA / NJCAA eligibility.
NIL Overview Document
LC NIL Disclosure Form (required)
NJCAA Bylaws (page 23)
Article V – Section 4
B.3. Name, Image & Likeness
B.3.a. The following acts shall not cause a student-athlete to lose their amateur status:
B.3.a.i Participating in radio or television programs for the purpose of promoting an amateur athletic event.
B.3.a.ii Receiving compensation for supervision of physical education, playground, or recreational activities.
B.3.a.iii Receiving compensation for use of name, image or likeness to promote any commercial product or enterprise, or public or media appearance so long as it does not conflict with the institutions existing partnerships, sponsorships, and agreements.
B.3.a.iv A member institution allowing a student-athlete to receive compensation in compliance with their state law.
B.3.b The following acts remain prohibited:
B.3.b.i Institutional employees or boosters making direct payment to athletes; and
B.3.b.ii Direct payments from the institution in exchange for athletic performance or as a recruiting inducement.
NIL GENERAL INFORMATION
Understanding the Contract
As a student-athlete, this may be one of the first contracts you've ever encountered. There are some things you should be aware of and prepared for. You'll want to make sure you're fully aware of the agreement before signing. Here are some things to consider before signing your first NIL contract.
College Regulations
Most states have adopted a bill that outlines guidelines institutions must follow in their NIL contact. It's important to understand which brands you can or can't partner with before signing a deal.
Financial Aid Impact
NIL compensation is taxable income. If you're an athlete on a scholarship, this is less of a concern. But student-athletes who receive need-based aid must be aware of the tipping point for NIL benefits to outweigh the costs of financial aid.
Exclusive Deals
Brands sometimes include an "exclusive clause" that prevents you from working with their competitors for the duration of the contract. Know who these companies are before accidentally signing a NIL with a competitor, breaching the contract
