Why Understanding NIL Is Critical for Today’s Athletes — And Why You Should Attend NIL 2.0

NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) isn’t just a headline in college sports — it’s a fundamental shift in how athletes build wealth, protect their brands and shape their futures.

Since NIL rules changed, student-athletes have gained unprecedented opportunities to earn income. But with opportunity comes complexity. Contracts, brand partnerships, tax implications, intellectual property rights and long-term strategy are now part of an athlete’s reality — often before they’ve taken a single professional snap.

The truth? The athletes who win in the NIL era aren’t just talented. They’re informed.

Why Understanding NIL Matters

1. Contracts Can Shape — or Limit — Your Future

Not all NIL deals are created equal. Some contracts include exclusivity clauses, long-term restrictions or intellectual property language that can affect an athlete’s professional prospects. Without understanding the fine print, athletes may unknowingly give away rights that impact future earnings.

2. Branding Is Bigger Than a Logo

An athlete’s name, image and likeness is a personal brand. Every partnership, post and endorsement becomes part of a long-term narrative. Understanding how to align with the right companies — and avoid the wrong ones — is essential to building credibility and longevity.

3. Protection Is Power

Legal safeguards, financial literacy and strategic planning are no longer optional. They’re necessary. Athletes and families must understand how to structure deals that protect income, manage taxes and preserve eligibility.

4. Short-Term Money Shouldn’t Undermine Long-Term Legacy

An immediate payout can be exciting. But does the deal align with long-term goals? Does it enhance marketability after graduation? Smart NIL strategy considers both today’s opportunity and tomorrow’s impact.

Why You Should Attend NIL 2.0

To help athletes and families navigate this evolving landscape, Edyoucore will host “NIL 2.0: Now Impacts Later — Real Life Stories for Parents & Athletes” at the CIAA Money Moves Financial Summit in Baltimore.

Saturday, February 28
12:30 PM – 1:20 PM
Baltimore, MD

This is not a surface-level conversation. NIL 2.0 is designed to break down:

• What athletes and parents should look for in contracts
• How to approach branding strategically
• The role of representation and agencies
• Real-world examples of deals that worked — and lessons from those that didn’t
• How NIL decisions today can impact professional and financial futures

The session brings together perspectives from athletes, parents and representation for a real, no-fluff discussion focused on athlete-first strategy.

Knowledge Is Leverage

NIL is here to stay. The question isn’t whether athletes will have opportunities — it’s whether they’ll be prepared to navigate them wisely.

Financial literacy and strategic guidance provide leverage. And leverage builds legacy.

If you’re an athlete, a parent or an agency working in the NIL space, this session is essential. Attend this session or contact us today to set up your own personal consultation call.

Early registration is strongly encouraged for this session.
Registration is required at: www.baltimore.org/ciaa

Make these opportunities work for the athletes in your life — not against them.