Name, Image, And Likeness (NIL) Policies In Collegiate Athletics

Racquel Davis Professor Alisha Williams English 102 2 June 2024 Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Policies in Collegiate Athletics The debate over whether college athletes should be allowed to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) has gained significant attention in recent years. This discussion includes various aspects, such as financial fairness, inequality, athletes' rights, and potential challenges in compliance and institutional equity. The NIL policy represents a seismic shift in the landscape of collegiate sports, balancing the athletes' right to profit from their personal brand against the traditional model of amateurism in college athletics. College athletes should be allowed to profit from their name, image, and likeness

For decades, athletes have contributed significantly to the economic success of their institutions and the NCAA without receiving a share of the profits. These athletes dedicate countless hours to training, competing, and representing their schools, often at the expense of their academic pursuits and personal time. Yet, while coaches, administrators, and the NCAA itself have benefited financially from the athletes' efforts, the athletes have been prohibited from earning any income related to their athletic achievements. This imbalance has long been a point of argument, with critics arguing that it exploits young athletes and denies them their rightful earnings. The NIL policy helps correct this imbalance by providing athletes with opportunities to earn income through endorsements, sponsorships, and other commercial ventures. This policy shift acknowledges the value that athletes bring to their institutions and allows them to benefit financially from their hard work and talent. Financial support can be crucial, especially for athletes from low-income backgrounds who struggle to cover their living expenses and education