Can D3 athletes get NIL?
Can D3 athletes get NIL?
By Justin Rubin June 16, 2023 11:12
As of July 2021, college athletes across all divisions are able to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) through commercial partnerships, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. This includes athletes in Division III, which is the largest of the NCAA's three divisions and is comprised of more than 400 colleges and universities. However, despite the NCAA's loosened guidelines on NIL compensation, there are still limitations and restrictions on what student-athletes can do with their NIL, such as promoting products or services that conflict with the values of their school or the NCAA.
For Division III athletes, the potential for NIL deals may be more limited compared to those in Division I or II. Division I athletes are generally more high-profile, playing in larger conferences and on national television broadcasts, which can attract more attention and interest from potential sponsors. However, there are still opportunities for Division III athletes to build their personal brand and earn money through NIL deals.
One potential avenue for Division III athletes to monetize their NIL is through social media. With the prevalence of platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, athletes can use their accounts to promote products or services that align with their personal brand and interests. For example, a Division III basketball player who is passionate about fitness and nutrition could partner with a sports supplement company to promote their products on their social media channels.
Another option for Division III athletes is to seek out local business partnerships. While they may not have the same national exposure as Division I athletes, Division III athletes are often well-known within their local communities and can leverage those connections to secure endorsement deals with local businesses. A Division III soccer player who is a regular at a local coffee shop could partner with the shop to promote their brand on social media and at games.
It's important to note that Division III athletes should be careful when looking into ways to monetize their NIL. While the NCAA has loosened its guidelines, there are still restrictions in place, such as promoting products or services that conflict with the values of their school or the NCAA. Athletes should also be aware of potential conflicts of interest and ensure that any endorsement deals do not interfere with their athletic commitments or academic responsibilities.
Despite these limitations, there is still potential for Division III athletes to earn money and build their personal brand through NIL deals. The top earners in college football have already made millions of dollars through NIL compensation, and it's estimated that college athletes earned $917 million in the first year of NIL payments. While Division III athletes may not reach those same levels of compensation, they can still benefit from the NCAA's loosened guidelines and build their personal brand both on and off the field.
In conclusion, Division III athletes are able to benefit from name, image, and likeness opportunities, just like athletes in other divisions. While the potential for NIL deals may be more limited, Division III athletes can still monetize their personal brand through social media, local business partnerships, and other avenues. However, it's important for athletes to be aware of the restrictions in place and ensure that any endorsement deals do not interfere with their athletic or academic commitments. With the NCAA's interim policy in place until new rules or federal legislation is adopted, the potential for Division III athletes to earn money through NIL deals is only expected to grow in the coming years.
LATEST
- NEWS
- |
- ARTICLES
- |
- VIDEOS
FAN ARCH PODCAST NETWORK
