Name Image Likeness Policies

Carson-Newman NIL Approval and Disclosure Form

NIL Taxable Income

Beginning July 1, 2021, all three NCAA divisions adopted interim rules to allow student-athletes the ability to earn compensation for the use of their own Name, Image and/or Likeness (NIL).  This document is intended to provide student-athletes with policies and procedures regarding NIL and serve as a resource.  This document does not constitute legal advice and the terms are subject to change as state and national guidance changes.

What is Name, Image and Likeness?

Name Image and/or Likeness (NIL) is an activity that involves the use of an individual’s name, image and/or likeness for commercial or promotional purposes.

If a student-athlete chooses to engage in an NIL activity, eligibility will not be impacted by NCAA amateurism and athletics eligibility bylaws, but other NCAA rules, including prohibitions on pay-for-play and improper recruiting inducements remain in effect.

Student-Athlete Information

Overview

Since July 1, 2021, NCAA rules permit student-athletes to earn compensation for use of their Name, Image and/or Likeness (NIL). Current Division II legislation (Bylaw 14.1.5) clarifies that NIL activities do not impact NCAA amateurism or eligibility, provided they do not constitute pay-for-play or improper recruiting inducements.

Carson-Newman student-athletes must comply with NCAA bylaws, state/federal law, and institutional policies. All NIL activities must be disclosed and managed through Spry, the compliance platform used by Carson-Newman.

Key NIL Rules

  • Professional Representation
    • Permitted only for NIL purposes, not future professional contracts.
    • Agents must comply with the Sports Agent Responsibility and Trust Act.
    • Attorneys must be licensed in the appropriate jurisdiction.
    • Student-athletes under 18 must have guardian approval for NIL contracts.
  • International Students
    • Must consult with Carson-Newman International Global Education Services before entering NIL agreements to avoid visa/immigration issues.
  • Compensation
    • May include money, goods, or services.
    • Not allowed in exchange for athletic performance, attendance, or enrollment decisions.
    • Cannot come directly from Carson-Newman or its employees.
  • Prohibited Industries
    Student-athletes may not endorse or promote:
    • Tobacco (including e-cigarettes/vapes)
    • Alcohol
    • Firearms/weapons
    • Illegal or banned substances
    • Sports wagering or gambling of any kind
    • Adult/sexually oriented businesses
  • Use of Carson-Newman Property
    • No use of university facilities, uniforms, or intellectual property (logos, photos, marks).
    • Athletes may identify themselves as a Carson-Newman student-athlete and state their sport.
  • Activity Restrictions
    • NIL work cannot interfere with academic, athletic, or team obligations (class, study hall, tutoring, practices, competition, travel, community service, team meetings).
    • Absence policies still apply.
  • Financial Aid Implications
    • Athletic scholarships are not impacted by NIL income.
    • Need-based aid (including Pell Grants) could be reduced depending on NIL compensation; consult with the Office of Financial Aid.

Institutional & Booster Guidelines

  • Carson-Newman staff may not arrange or provide NIL deals.
  • Boosters/Eagle Club members may engage student-athletes in NIL only if:
    • The activity is legitimate, disclosed through Spry, and not a recruiting inducement or pay-for-play arrangement.

NIL Disclosure Process (via Spry)

  1. Before Signing: Student-athletes must disclose all NIL opportunities through the Spry NIL tab.
  2. Compliance Review: The Compliance Office reviews disclosures for NCAA/institutional conflicts.
  3. Approval: Only after compliance approval may the student-athlete sign or participate.
  4. Ongoing Updates: All modifications or renewals must also be submitted in Spry.

FAQs

Q: Can a booster-owned business pay a student-athlete for NIL?
A: Yes, if it is for actual NIL services (e.g., appearance, promotion) and not arranged by C-N staff or used for recruiting inducements.

Q: Can NIL affect financial aid?
A: It will not impact athletics aid, but may impact need-based aid. Direct questions to Financial Aid.

Q: Are prospective student-athletes (recruits) eligible for NIL?
A: Yes, but NIL cannot be used as a recruiting inducement. Prospects must also consider high school/state association rules.

�� Reminder: All NIL disclosure and approval is processed exclusively in Spry. Student-athletes are responsible for ensuring compliance with NCAA, South Atlantic Conference, and Carson-Newman rules.