One Year of NILSU
On Friday, July 1st, we celebrated one year of NIL, student-athletes being able to profit off of their name, image and likeness. Last year, in the middle of Time Square, NILSU made its debut, and LSU Athletics became committed to creating a program that would not only educate student-athletes, but also provide them with resources and opportunities to navigate this new era.
As the college athletics space continues to change, we have been proud to see our student-athletes thrive. Adding to their already elite level of “student-athlete,” we have watched and supported as they have found new passions, building their personal brands and businesses. In partnership with Altius Sports Partners, we have provided education on what it means to develop a personal brand and understand the new financial implications of participating in NIL engagements. Through events like Geaux Time and Build Your Board we have educated student-athletes and the community, while also creating connections and mentorship opportunities for both NIL opportunities, and for life after their eligibility. We have seen incredible opportunity born from NIL, and we have continued to adapt and better understand the needs of our student-athletes.
Over the last year, NIL news has swept the nation and we have continued to navigate the constant changes. Prior to the rule change in 2021 and in line with the NCAA, the state of Louisiana had prepared legislation that would lay ground rules for all student-athletes in Louisiana. Between the guidance in place by the NCAA and the landscape we have experienced this past year, the legislation has recently been amended to allow for more opportunity for student-athletes in Louisiana. Two of the biggest changes in the legislation are: 1. Institutions can now facilitate NIL deals and 2. A protection from public record requests is now in place, protecting the personal and private information of the student-athletes personal deals.
With these new changes in place, we have continued to adjust and prepare for what may come next in NIL. In the coming weeks and months, we plan to implement many exciting new elements of the NILSU department. From preparing a staff to updating our technology, NILSU is dedicated to being a premier resource for every aspect of the NIL experience. At the end of the day, our goal is to ensure that our student-athletes have the resources and education they need to confidently navigate their NIL opportunities. After all, they are the real deal.
