NIL Basics for Parents: What’s the Deal and Why It Matters

If you’re a parent wondering what NIL means for your athlete, you’re not alone.

Last weekend, I led an NIL info session for a local club volleyball program. The goal was simple: help parents understand what NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) means for their athletes. What happened surprised even the club director: parents had a lot of questions. Good ones, too.

It was a reminder that while NIL dominates headlines, many families are still trying to make sense of it. So, let's take a look.

What Is NIL?

NIL stands for Name, Image, and Likeness, the rights every athlete has to profit from their personal brand. That could mean:

• Promoting a product on social media

• Hosting a skills clinic

• Selling merchandise

• Partnering with a local business

  
  

And it’s not just for college athletes anymore. High school and club athletes in many states can now participate in NIL activities. As of 2025, 39 states and Washington, D.C. allow high school athletes to monetize their NIL.

Not all states are on board yet, so it’s important to check your state’s rules. For today, we’ll focus on Florida.

Top Questions Parents Asked

1. Can my athlete post in club or high school gear?

This was one of the first questions asked. The short answer: it depends.

In Florida, the FHSAA prohibits high school athletes from using school logos, uniforms, or branding in NIL-related content. That includes social media posts, promotional materials, and anything tied to a paid opportunity. In most states that allow high school athletes to participate, similar restrictions apply but the details vary by state. Always check your state’s specific guidelines before posting.

Club sports are different. They’re not governed by FHSAA, so athletes can usually use club gear and logos in NIL promotions, unless the club has its own restrictions. Always check with your club director to confirm.

The goal is to keep NIL activities separate from school programs and maintain amateur status. When in doubt, ask.

2. What kinds of NIL opportunities are realistic at the club level?

Think local. Small businesses, camps, and social media partnerships are all possibilities. If your athlete has a strong online presence or a unique story, they may attract deals. But even without big follower counts, they can start building a brand that opens doors later.

3. Will this affect their workload or academics?

It can, if it’s not managed well. Treat NIL like a part-time job. Set boundaries. Prioritize school and sport. And remember: not every opportunity is worth the time it takes.

4. Is this really worth it at the club level?

Here’s where opinions split. My advice: if your athlete isn’t excited about NIL, that’s perfectly okay. But for those who are, NIL needs to looked at as more than money, it’s a training ground.

Athletes learn how to:

• Build a personal brand

• Communicate professionally

• Negotiate deals

• Understand contracts

• Prepare for interviews/pitches

• Manage finances and make smart money decisions

  
  

These are life skills. Whether they go pro, play in college, or pivot to a career outside sports.

NIL as a Training Ground for Life Skills

This is the heart of my message. NIL gives athletes a chance to practice real-world skills. They learn to advocate for themselves, manage time, and think like entrepreneurs. It’s not just about getting paid, it’s about getting prepared.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a parent wondering how to support your athlete in the NIL space, start with education. Ask questions. Encourage reflection. Help them think long-term.

And if you’re a coach or club director, consider hosting your own NIL info session. The questions will come and they’ll be worth answering.

Need guidance? Want help navigating NIL for your athlete or your program? I’m here. Reach out anytime. I’d love to help you build a confident, informed path forward.

✅ Want a free NIL checklist for parents and athletes? Click here to download.