Stonehill Athletics Name, Image & Likeness Flyer
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NCAA Name, Image & Likeness Information
As of July 1, 2021, Stonehill College student-athletes can receive monetary compensation based on the use of their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). Stonehill has adopted a recent policy in accordance with the NCAA’s interim policy and the College’s standing athletic policies. As with all new rule changes, it is important that student-athletes understand how these new guidelines can benefit them while keeping their NCAA eligibility intact.
What is Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)?
According to the NCAA, NIL is an activity that uses the name, image, and likeness of a student athlete for promotional purposes that may result in monetary gain.
What opportunities can I pursue using my NIL?
Student-athletes can participate in activities using their NIL and be compensated for them as long as they do not fall under the prohibited activities established by the NCAA and Northeast-10 Conference.
Opportunities that student athletes can capitalize on include but are not limited to the following:
- Autograph Sales
- Special appearances
- Providing private lessons/coaching.
- Social media endorsements on personal social media channels.
- Content creation (ex: YouTube Channel)
- Personal Brand Merchandising
What can I NOT promote/earn compensation for using my NIL?
Some examples of prohibited promotions are listed here:
- Promotion of alcohol/alcohol paraphernalia
- Promotion of all drugs/ drug usage (including marijuana) or any drug paraphernalia.
- Promotion of any tobacco and/or smoking product or any vendors associated with tobacco or smoking products.
- Promotion of adult industry
- Promotion of Gambling or Sports betting (ex: “Barstool Athlete”)
- Any extra benefit programs (ex: Lululemon’s Sweat Collective Program) that are not allowed by the NCAA.
Can I be a “Barstool Athlete”?
No. The Department of Athletics has decided to not allow Skyhawk student-athletes to be “Barstool Athletes.” Barstool and Barstool Sportsbook is known for their relationship with sports betting which is illegal in the state of Massachusetts and not allowed by the NCAA. As a result, receiving anything in exchange for the use of your NIL could put your NCAA eligibility at risk.
What could impact my student-athlete eligibility?
Although students can be compensated for their NIL, the NCAA’s rules on extra benefits and preferential treatment are still in effect. Further, NIL activities that are considered “Pay-for-Play” or payment dependent on a specific athletic outcome are not permitted.
Examples of impermissible compensation for “Pay-For-Play":
- $150 payment to a football player for every catch they make.
- $300 for every goal scored by a field hockey player
Examples of impermissible compensation for athletic outcomes:
- $5,000 to a softball player as a reward for winning Stonehill’s student-athlete of the year award.
- $10,000 to a soccer player for winning NE10 Player of the Year.
Can I use Stonehill athletic gear, apparel, trademarks, or facilities in my promotions?
No. The use of any Stonehill College gear, trademarks, logos, service marks, or phrases associated with the College is prohibited without advanced approval.
Some examples of prohibited usage are listed here:
- Wearing your softball jersey during your promotional photoshoot at a local ice cream shop.
- Using the phrase “Lux et Spes” during your commercial for a smoothie shop.
Student-athletes are also not allowed to conduct any NIL activities using Stonehill facilities, equipment, or uniforms without prior approval by the Director of Athletics and/or the obtainment of a location agreement.
Some examples of prohibited usage is listed here:
- Conducting a promotional video at W.B. Mason Stadium.
- Running private tennis lessons/camps on the school’s tennis court.
Can Stonehill compensate me for NIL?
No. NCAA rules prevent both academic institutions and athletic associations (ex: NE10) from supplying compensation to future and current student-athletes.
Can my coaches or other athletic administrators arrange NIL opportunities for me?
No. Stonehill cannot take part in the obtainment, management, or execution of NIL activities. However, Stonehill will provide guidance to its student athletes to ensure their eligibility is not jeopardized.
Coaches and administrators are not allowed to:
- Promise or insinuate future endorsements to prospective student-athletes.
- Help secure endorsements or arrange payment for any student-athlete.
- Allow or take part in any compensation based on enrollment at Stonehill or athletic play.
How do I enter into an NIL Agreement without jeopardizing my eligibility?
Student-Athletes must disclose all NIL agreements to the Athletic Department at least seven (7) days prior to participation in said activity. Failure to do so may result in the removal from a team and/or cancellation of athletic financial aid/scholarships.
Student-Athletes will not be allowed to enter into an NIL agreement if:
- The agreement or contract conflicts with institutional contracts or agreements.
The opportunities conflict with any academic activity, team related activity, or community service event.- For example, you cannot miss class or practice to do a photo shoot for a pizza brand you are contracted with.
Can I use a professional service provider in connection with my NIL?
Yes, students may secure a professional service provider for the sole purpose of NIL. Students may not use any service provider in connection with a professional athletic contract. A service provider could be any of the following:
- An agent
- Tax advisor
- Marketing consultant
- Attorney
- Brand management company
Any agent representing a student-athlete must follow the Federal Sports Agent Responsibility and Trust Act. Any attorney representing a student athlete must be licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Are student-athletes allowed to enter into NIL agreements with boosters/donors of the College?
Yes, if the activity follows both school and state policy.
Does this change how Stonehill can use my NIL?
No. Stonehill is still permitted to use a student-athlete's NIL to promote charitable, educational, athletic and academic activities per applicable state law.
Why are my friends from other states and schools being told different things about the rules of NIL?
The NCAA is currently working on legislation with Congress to develop a permanent policy at the Federal level. In the meantime, each state and institution can vary in their approach to the NIL policy. Student-athletes should follow the policies outlined here and communicate with the Department of Athletics compliance office if they have any questions.
I am an international student. Can I benefit from NIL?
Yes. The interim NIL policy does cover international students. However, students should consult with government agencies on visa and tax implications due to NIL compensation.
Will NIL affect my financial aid?
Any compensation you receive will not affect your athletic scholarship. If you receive need-based aid, it can be influenced. This includes things such as Pell Grants.
How do I report NIL on my taxes?
Student-athletes should follow all applicable tax laws while reporting NIL compensation. This can vary state to state as well as in countries outside of the United States.
Where can I find more information on NIL?
You can visit the NCAA’s website to find NIL policy resources here or direct any questions you may have to Stonehill’s compliance office here.
