As many Division I programs rapidly support student-athletes securing NIL (name, image, and likeness) deals, Division III college athletics are slowly adjusting to the growing landscape, especially at the University of Lynchburg.
Jon Waters, the Director of Athletics at Lynchburg, said, NIL in DIII is still a new and evolving concept, especially with changing NCAA regulations that must be carefully navigated.
“It will be hard for NIL opportunities on the DIII level to really begin to grow until we know how the DI processes and concepts take full shape,” explained Waters “On the NCAA front with Division III, the opportunity is permissive with the necessity for each individual school to have knowledge of any prospective NIL deals so that they can verify that they would not violate the amateur status for the student athlete” said Waters.
Still, multiple Lynchburg student-athletes have secured NIL deals, mainly through personal connections. Dennis McGowan, a second-year member of the Men’s Golf Team, has partnered with the apparel brand Rhoback to influence the college-aged golfers market.
“Rhoback was interested in working with me because of their ties to golf, so having college golfers wearing the apparel will hopefully result in more professionals wearing the brand,” he said.
Fourth-year Men’s Soccer defensive player Reid Rouse, has also acquired a deal outside of the school with WUF Performance, a local sports performance and recovery brand.
“The company values athletic performance, academic prowess, and community involvement…They felt I represented that balance well,” said Rouse.
Both athletes see the potential for more NIL involvement on campus in conjunction with Lynchburg businesses and brands.
“There’s a void in NIL deals in the DIII community, and many local firms would value our representation of a ‘balanced lifestyle,” said Rouse.
At Lynchburg, NIL opportunities are being carefully monitored to ensure compliance with new NCAA amateurism rules, with all contracts required to be reviewed and cleared by the athletic department.
As Division I programs set the standard for NIL deals, Lynchburg’s athletic department is preparing to follow their lead and provide support for student-athletes navigating the process.
For more information on Lynchburg Sports, visit the Official Athletics Website.