Benedictine University Department of Athletics
Name, Image and Likeness Policy (NIL)
Benedictine University is proud to support student-athletes receiving compensation for the use of their NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) from non-university entities to align with the
NCAA Policy and the
law in Illinois.
Below are the guidelines for NIL use. Failure to comply with the policies below can result in penalties from the NCAA or Benedictine that can potentially impact your ability to continue competing in athletics at the collegiate level.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
Use of NIL for monetization includes many things included but not limited to:
- Personal appearances
- Autograph sessions
- Sponsored social media posts
- Providing private lessons and using your NIL to promote them
- Running your own camps or clinics
- Developing and promoting their own business
- Traditional commercials or advertisements for products or services
Provided that compensation is for work performed there is no limit on the amount of income you may earn through NIL actions
WHAT IS NOT ALLOWED WITH NIL
- Use of Facilities: Facilities of Benedictine University may not be used for NIL
- Use of Logos: Benedictine logos, trademarks, uniforms or other products may not be used without written consent from Benedictine
- Timing: You may not miss class time, academic obligations or team required events for NIL
- Institutional/Booster Involvement: Benedictine may not create or arrange for NIL opportunities
- Conflicting agreement: Without permission from Benedictine you may not enter an agreement with a third party that conflicts with an existing Benedictine sponsor
- Length: Use of NIL can not begin until enrollment and may not extend beyond the end of eligibility in your sport at Benedictine
- Kinds of Promotion: Illinois law does not allow student-athletes to engage in NIL activities that promote or endorse tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, illegal substances, controlled substances, alternative or electronic nicotine products or delivery system, performance-enhancing supplements, gambling, sports betting, adult entertainment or any product or service that does not fall in line with the Benedictine mission or that will reflect negatively on the institution or department
- Pay-for-Play/Recruiting: Compensation may not be based upon enrolling at Benedictine, continuing at Benedictine or based on athletic performance, recognition or achievements
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Compensation for NIL is often considered taxable income. Consult with a tax professional about the tax implications of income earned from NIL. Income changes can affect eligibility for need-based financial aid from both federal and institution granted
- International student-athletes should seek guidance and understand the potential impact on VISA status as a result of NIL
DISCLOSURE
- Any NIL activities must be disclosed at least seven days prior to entering into an agreement for the activity
ADVISORS
A professional advisor such as marketing agents, tax advisors, or legal advisors to assist in NIL actions are allowed but normal costs and fees associated must be paid by the student-athlete.
Benedictine will not provide services or be responsible for costs except for those which are available to every student at Benedictine.
