Young college athletes hold a golden ticket with NIL deals. They can finally cash in on their names, images, and likenesses, which also allows them to promote products, collaborate with brands, and even create their content. But to make the most of these deals, athletes need to start thinking like entrepreneurs. They should develop a clear strategy and brand identity, which is not just about promoting a product but about creating a personal brand that reflects who they are.
So how does one go about it…
To build their brand, they should engage with fans on social media, post genuine content, and freely show their personality. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter can play a huge role here. A well-curated profile can attract brands that want to partner with them. For example, college football star and influencer, Jaden Rashada, reportedly signed a NIL deal worth over a million after braving to share his personality through social media. This opportunity shows just how important it is to connect with followers and elevate personal branding.
Future success
When it comes to the bigger picture, it’s important to note that college athletes might not go pro, but building a brand during their college years can still set them up for success later on. If they establish a personal brand now, it gives them a head start for any future entrepreneurial career they might choose. Also, skills like negotiation and marketing come into play, and these will be crucial if they choose to launch their own business or enter the corporate world.
College athletics as a business
Athletes should see their college athletics as a business opportunity, and here’s why: They generate revenue for their schools, programs, and the NCAA itself, so understanding their worth is extremely important. According to the NCAA, college sports generated more than $1.3 billion in revenue during the 2023 fiscal year. Athletes contribute to this success, yet until recently, they received little in return for their hard work outside of scholarships.
When they recognize their athleticism as a business, they equip themselves with the right mindset. Athletes should approach every endorsement deal, sponsorship, or personal project with a clear understanding of its value – which means negotiating intelligently and making sure they get compensated. If they view themselves as a business, they will prioritize their own growth, both on and off the field.
For the love of the game
Here’s one very important thing to remember: loving the game matters more than anything if you want to succeed. There will be days when the grind feels heavy, practices seem endless, and losses sting like crazy. If you don’t have that genuine passion for what you do, pushing through the hard times becomes nearly impossible. Athletes need to harness that love for the sport to fuel them, especially when the going gets tough. When it comes to scoring NIL deals, brands want athletes who not only shine on the field but also genuinely love what they’re doing. That passion translates into authenticity, and fans can spot fake vibes from a mile away. Staying true to your love for the game keeps you motivated and opens doors to opportunities that might not exist otherwise. Remember, athletes build success through dedication and grit, and only a true love for the game can provide that fire when the journey gets rough.
Young athletes hold the reins to their futures right now, and with the right strategy, they can pave the way for endeavors beyond their college sports career. Play the game right, and they may find more than just glory in athletics – they may find lifelong success and fulfillment as entrepreneurs.