For a long time, college athletes were asked to give everything to their sport without getting paid. They trained year-round, traveled constantly, and brought in huge revenue for their schools. But under NCAA rules, they couldn’t make money off their own name, image, or likeness. The goal was to protect amateurism, but it often left athletes stuck. They couldn’t take endorsement deals, promote a product, or even run a monetized YouTube channel without risking eligibility.That standard began to shift after years of conversation, legal action, and growing public support.
In 2021, college athletes were finally allowed to make money from their name, image, and likeness. Now platforms like NIL Club are giving student-athletes a safe and transparent way to explore these new opportunities while staying in control of their personal brand.
For the first time, they could earn income while still in school. That meant getting paid for things like social media posts, local sponsorships, or public appearances. It wasn’t just about money. It was about giving athletes the chance to benefit from the work and attention they already brought to their teams, schools, and communities.
Since then, thousands of athletes across the country have taken part in NIL opportunities. Some have landed major partnerships with national brands. Others have created small but steady income through social media, autograph signings, and local sponsorships. The NIL space has opened doors for athletes from all backgrounds and sports, not just those playing football or basketball. Track athletes, swimmers, gymnasts, and soccer players have all found ways to share their stories and receive support in return.
That doesn’t mean everything about NIL is simple. Rules for high school athletes still vary across the country. As of 2025, several states prohibit high school athletes from making money from their name, image, and likeness, including Alabama, Hawaii, South Carolina, Texas, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Some states allow NIL activity with specific conditions. For example, in Arkansas, high school athletes can only participate in NIL if they have signed with an in-state college. Other states, like Arizona and Vermont, have unclear or evolving guidance. These inconsistencies can cause confusion for athletes and families, especially when they receive messages about joining an NIL Club or earning money online.
Some athletic associations and school officials have issued warnings about NIL opportunities that may not comply with local amateurism rules. For example, the Hawaii High School Athletic Association has stated that under current rules, high school athletes in Hawaii are not allowed to monetize their name, image, or likeness. This is not a claim that specific platforms like NIL Club are scams, but rather a reminder that any NIL activity must follow state and school regulations.
For families and athletes unfamiliar with the rules, these official statements can cause confusion. While many NIL platforms are legitimate, it is important to understand how each one works and whether it aligns with the athlete’s eligibility requirements.
When a student signs up for NIL Club, the app requests access to their contacts. This gives athletes the option to let their friends, family, and fans know that their team now has a club. Those who subscribe can choose a monthly support level that feels right for them. All subscribers receive full access to the team’s updates and content. The app runs on a simple principle: pay what you think is fair. There are no hidden fees. No complicated contracts. Just a way for supporters to stay connected and help athletes stay focused.
Several established platforms help student-athletes navigate the world of Name, Image, and Likeness. Opendorse and INFLCR have been active since the NCAA began allowing NIL opportunities. Both are widely used by schools and athletes to manage brand partnerships, enhance social media presence, and stay compliant with NIL regulations. These platforms often work directly with college athletic departments to connect athletes with companies and provide tools for building their personal brands.
NIL Club works differently than most sponsorship platforms. Instead of chasing big brand deals, it lets student-athletes connect directly with their supporters. Athletes can post updates, share their experiences, and build a base of fans who choose to support them. Anyone on a college team can join, no matter their sport or division. The money raised through the club is split evenly among teammates each month, which helps keep the focus on the team, not just the individual.
NIL Clubs are not affiliated with specific schools and operate independently. They are also available to high school students in states where NIL participation is allowed. Students involved in sports, band, theater, academic clubs, or other activities can join. Those under 18 must have a parent or guardian’s consent to participate. Once an account is created and approved, students can start engaging with their supporters. These platforms highlight just how many paths student-athletes now have to earn from their name, image, and likeness. Across the country, many have already used these opportunities to support themselves in meaningful ways.
University of Iowa standout Caitlin Clark earned an estimated three million dollars during her college career through NIL deals. This income came from multiple sources, including brand partnerships and endorsements.
At Iowa State, quarterback Rocco Becht used NIL funds to organize and run a free youth football camp.
Sam Hurley, a high jumper at the University of Texas, benefited from NIL support that allowed him to avoid part-time work and focus on training and recovery. He also used the income to invest in a condo. These are real examples of how NIL can support student-athletes.
At Lehigh University, the football team participates in an NIL Club and is projected to earn over twenty five thousand dollars in 2025. This amount will be shared among players and used for essentials such as gas, groceries, and equipment. It is not a large sum, but it provides real support and helps reduce financial pressure.
NIL Club is free to use and provides a legal way for eligible athletes to participate in NIL activities. However, NIL rules vary by state. Some states do not allow high school athletes to monetize their NIL. This has caused confusion when athletes in those states are invited to join. NIL Club is not violating any laws, but students must understand their state’s rules before signing up.
NIL rules are still evolving. What is allowed now may change in the future. Athletes and platforms will continue to adapt. One thing is certain. NIL is not going away. For students looking to explore this space, NIL Club is a great option. Brands like SoFi and LoveShackFancy have sponsored athlete clubs through the app. More companies are exploring these partnerships. It’s a good time for college athletes to take advantage of the chance to earn money and grow their brand.
