NIL stands for Name, Image, and Likeness—and it refers to a college athlete’s right to make money from their personal brand.

• Name: Your identity (your actual name)
• Image: Photos or videos of you
• Likeliness: Your appearance, personality, or reputation

If you can build an audience, tell your story, or create value – you can monetize it while still playing your sport.

How NIL Works

You Build Value – Athletes gain attention through:

• Performance (on the field)
• Social media presence
• Personalit / story

You Get Opportunities

Brands, businesses, or individuals may pay you to:

• Promote products on social media
• Appear at events, camps, and clinics
• Sign autographs or sell merchandise
• Partner with local businesses

You Get Paid (Legally)

Before 2021, this was not allowed. After the NCAA NIL policy change in 2021:

• Athletes can earn money without losing eligibility
• Schools still cannot directly pay players (in most cases)
• Deals must follow NCAA+ state rules

Real Examples of NIL Deals

• A high school or college lacrosse player promotes a local training facility
• An athlete posts sponsored content for a sports brand
• Running a paid youth clinic or camp
• Selling branded gear (shirts, sticks, merch)

Key Rules to Know

• You cannot be paid just to attend a school (“pay for play”)
• You can be paid for actual work or promotion
• Many schools require deals to be reported
• Rules vary by state and division (DI, II, III)

Why NIL Matters (Especially for Lacrosse)

For sports like lacrosse:

• You may not get full scholarships
• NIL gives athletes a way to offset costs
• It rewards players who market themselves well, not just top recruits