In the ever-evolving world of collegiate athletics, the rules of the game are changing. It's no longer just about scoring touchdowns or sinking three-pointers. Student-athletes need to make the most of the opportunities that Name, Image, and Likeness affords.
Here are three things student-athletes, their parents, and sports leaders need to
know about NIL to navigate this new frontier.
1. Stay Compliant with the Rules and Regulations
NIL is a hot topic but amidst all the excitement, it's crucial to remember that there are rules and regulations to follow. The NCAA and individual states have their own sets of guidelines governing NIL activities. Understanding what these rules entail and how they apply to a student-athlete’s situation is paramount.
While student-athletes are busy dominating on the field of play, it is essential that they are equally savvy off it. This means comprehending the intricate web of laws and regulations surrounding NIL. The last thing any student-athlete, administrator, coach, or parent wants is to see a player inadvertently violate a rule and jeopardize eligibility or opportunities.
2. Develop A Personal Brand
In the fiercely competitive world of collegiate athletics, what sets one student-athlete apart from another? Yes, performance on the field is the key part of that equation, but what a student-athlete stands for, who they are, and their behavior and values all impact how successful they will be in the NIL marketplace. Now more than ever, it is critical to build a strong personal to attract and retain fans, followers, and sponsors.
A personal brand is more than just a catchy slogan. It's about curating and telling a student-athletes’ origin story and bringing to life their ethos and passion. Those who want to take advantage of NIL opportunities must carefully and intentionally build a compelling personal brand that resonates with the audiences that they want to attract.
3. Supercharge Social Media
Social media is a game-changer. Today’s student-athlete must supercharge their social media, engage with audiences, showcase their personality, and create content that resonates -- all while staying away from fake content or posts that give audiences the wrong impression.
But how does a student-athlete go from being on social media to a key influencer? It's about strategy, consistency, and understanding the audience. Learning the art of storytelling through social media can make all the difference.
NIL is the future of collegiate athletics.
The University of South Florida has put together a remarkable four-module Foundations in NIL certificate program to help student-athletes, their parents, their coaches – any anyone interested in NIL – learn more about what it takes to stay compliant, build a brand, carefully curate the right social media presence and understand the anatomy of an NIL deal. The fully online certificate program is a useful guide for these essential skills and can be completed in just four hours. Participants not only gain key foundational knowledge, they also walk away with a Credly badge to signal their understanding of the key concepts.
Register now at usf.to/NILcertificate.