Unlocking NIL for College Athletes: A Parent’s Guide to Success
Did you know that some college athletes have earned $1.5 million or more through NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals?
Shedeur Sanders, a standout college football player, saw his NIL valuation soar from $1.5 million at the start of 2023 to $4.8 million later that year (Source: MarketWatch). For parents of aspiring athletes, this opportunity has transformed college sports—but it can also feel overwhelming. Understanding NIL is key to helping your child unlock their potential. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is NIL?
NIL allows college athletes to earn money from their personal brand—their name, image, and reputation. Before 2021, NCAA rules prohibited athletes from profiting in this way. Now, they can sign sponsorships, endorse products, sell branded merchandise, or earn income as social media influencers, all while maintaining eligibility!
This opens up exciting possibilities for athletes to collaborate with brands, host paid events, or sell products like T-shirts with their logo. Social media plays a big role, as athletes with strong followings often attract influencer partnerships.
Benefits and Challenges of NIL
NIL offers clear benefits: financial freedom, career skills like marketing and branding, and increased visibility for recruiters and scholarships. Athletes can use earnings to pay for tuition, personal expenses, or save for the future, all while building skills that prepare them for life after sports.
However, NIL comes with challenges. Managing academics, athletics, and NIL obligations can be overwhelming. Opportunities often favor athletes in high-profile sports like football or basketball, leaving others with less visibility. Compliance is another hurdle; each state and school has unique NIL rules, and mistakes can impact eligibility.
How Parents Can Support Their Child
As a parent, you play an essential role in guiding your child through NIL opportunities:
- Understand the Rules
Research your child’s school and state policies to ensure compliance and avoid potential risks. - Help Build Their Brand
Support your child in creating a strong and professional online presence. Encourage them to share highlights, tell personal stories, and engage authentically with their audience on social media. - Protect Their Interests
Review contracts carefully, seek legal or professional advice when needed, and educate your child about tax responsibilities. Help them pursue deals that align with their values and won’t jeopardise their reputation. - Encourage Balance
Remind your athlete to prioritise academics and sports. NIL is an incredible opportunity, but their long-term success depends on maintaining their primary commitments.
How Parents Can Support Their Child’s NIL Journey
NIL can be tricky for international students due to visa restrictions. Earning NIL income in the U.S. may violate F-1 visa terms, but they can explore options like collaborating with brands in their home country or pursuing opportunities while abroad during school breaks. Maximizing scholarships is another great way to reduce financial stress. Always consult an immigration attorney or school compliance office before moving forward.
Final Thoughts: Setting Your Athlete Up for NIL Success
NIL has created unprecedented opportunities for college athletes to earn money, build their brand, and develop career-ready skills. While the landscape can be complex, your support as a parent is invaluable. By educating yourself, helping them stay balanced, and protecting their interests, you can set your child up for success on and off the field.
Ready to help your child navigate NIL? Contact us today for personalised guidance and support in this exciting new era of college athletics.
Launch Your College Journey Today
Dan
UC Berkeley • Rugby
"We had eight schools come back to us overnight after my player profile was sent out to coaches - and that was places I never would have dreamed of, like Harvard, Columbia, Brown, Dartmouth and obviously Berkeley."
