Understanding the Rules and Regulations of Name, Image, and Likeness: A Guide for Businesses and Student Athletes
As the General Manager of the Knights Table Collective, I am dedicated to helping businesses and student athletes navigate the exciting world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). With recent changes in regulations, it’s essential to understand what is permissible and what is not when it comes to leveraging the NIL of college athletes. Let’s dive into the details.
What is Permissible under NIL Rules and Regulations?
Endorsements and Sponsorships: College athletes are now allowed to enter into endorsement and sponsorship deals with businesses. This means that businesses can use the name, image, and likeness of college athletes to promote their products or services, as long as the deal is made directly with the athlete and not tied to their athletic performance.
Social Media and Personal Branding: Student athletes can use their own social media accounts to promote their personal brand and engage with their audience. This includes promoting products or services, as long as it is not in violation of any institutional or conference rules.
Personal Autographs and Memorabilia: College athletes can now profit from signing autographs and selling memorabilia with their name, image, and likeness. This can provide a unique opportunity for businesses to collaborate with athletes and create exclusive merchandise for fans.
Public Appearances and Speaking Engagements: College athletes can now participate in public appearances and speaking engagements, where they can share their stories, experiences, and insights. Businesses can leverage the popularity and influence of athletes by booking them for events or engagements related to their industry or target audience.
Online Content Creation: Student athletes can now create and monetize their own online content, such as YouTube videos, podcasts, or blogs. This allows athletes to showcase their talents, interests, and personalities, while also providing businesses with opportunities for collaborations and sponsorships.
What Cannot be Done under NIL Rules and Regulations?
Paying for Play: NIL rules prohibit any payments to athletes based on their athletic performance or participation. This means that businesses cannot directly pay athletes for their performance in games or competitions.
Conflicting with Institutional or Conference Rules: While athletes now have more freedom to profit from their NIL, they are still required to comply with their institution’s and conference’s rules and regulations. This includes avoiding any conflicts of interest, such as endorsing products or services that are in violation of these rules.
Unauthorized Use of Logos or Trademarks: Businesses must obtain proper authorization and licensing for the use of any logos, trademarks, or other intellectual property associated with a college or university. Unauthorized use can result in legal consequences.
Violating NCAA Eligibility Requirements: Athletes must ensure that their NIL activities do not jeopardize their eligibility to participate in NCAA-sanctioned sports. This includes avoiding any activities that would violate NCAA rules, such as receiving improper benefits or engaging in recruiting violations.
Exploitation of Athletes: NIL rules prohibit any exploitation or abuse of athletes, such as coercing or pressuring them into endorsement deals or taking advantage of their status as college athletes. Athletes must have full autonomy and control over their NIL activities.
Conclusion:
The NIL landscape offers exciting opportunities for businesses and student athletes to collaborate and benefit from each other’s strengths. However, it’s crucial to understand and abide by the rules and regulations surrounding NIL to ensure compliance and avoid any legal or ethical issues. As the General Manager of the Knights Table Collective, I am committed to helping businesses and student athletes navigate the complexities of NIL and unlock its full potential in a responsible and compliant manner. Let’s work together to create meaningful and mutually beneficial partnerships.