From William & Mary Athletics
William & Mary Athletics has developed a comprehensive Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program specifically designed to educate 500 Tribe student-athletes on how best to take advantage of NIL opportunities and to provide education as they pursue their long-term goals.
The program will begin in January and combines the academic strengths of the university with the brand-building and business management skills of INFLCR, the company that works with over 270 elite collegiate and professional sports organizations. This partnership will launch the Green & Gold Exchange to connect student-athletes with potential business opportunities beginning in January.
“The NIL program we have developed takes advantage of the tremendous richness of William & Mary’s academic offerings and will give every one of our 500 student-athletes the opportunity to enhance their knowledge about personal marketing and how to accrue its benefits. Our program is grounded in education and will benefit our student-athletes now and for years after they graduate,” says Brian Mann, director of athletics.
In developing the educational component of its NIL program, the athletics department is partnering with the Mason School of Business and the William & Mary Law School. Starting in the spring semester, student-athletes can attend sessions specifically designed for them throughout the semester. Led by faculty and staff of the two schools and members of the Williamsburg community, program topics will include how to make the most of personal branding and networking, digital engagement, and financial literacy.
The second major piece of W&M’s NIL program involves working with INFLCR, an industry leader, in helping athletes maximize business opportunities. “As we were putting together the Tribe’s NIL program, we reviewed many potential partners to ensure we selected the right fit for our university,” says Mann. “We also wanted a company with a proven track record that would provide the best opportunities for our student-athletes in a safe environment. After our due diligence and great reviews, we decided on INFLCR, and we anticipate a terrific experience for our young men and women.”
To date, INFLCR has helped Athletics develop the Green & Gold Exchange, a critical component of the Tribe’s NIL program. The Exchange is a customized portal that helps match business opportunities with student-athletes and is free for all parties. Opportunities for student-athletes range from sharing content on social media, autographs, and personal appearances to giving lessons and providing endorsements.
“William & Mary is setting a best practice on how to support their student-athletes around NIL. The collaboration between the Athletics Department, Business School, and Law School provides a powerful resource to support the students in their NIL journey. This education, combined with INFLCR’s Local Exchange technology, will set their student-athletes up for success,” said INFLCR Founder Jim Cavale. “The Green & Gold Exchange provides an amazing opportunity for student-athletes to develop and grow their personal brands in this NIL era.”
For more information about NIL opportunities at W&M, visit tribeathletics.com/NIL.
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