We recently hosted a Zoominar for character coaches and sports chaplains focused on an issue that emerged on 1 July, 2021. The era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) finances in collegiate sport in the USA began. What had been "under the table" inducements to star athletes to sign with a particular university, $1,000.00 handshakes, and other ways to illegally influence a competitor's choice of school, was suddenly totally legal and legitimate.
Our guests included Athletes in Action staff, Fellowship of Christian Athletes staff, Nations of Coaches staff and volunteers, as well as many others from multiple sports backgrounds. Featured were: Chauncey Franks - FCA and team chaplain for TCU Football, Tim Carter - Nations of Coaches Regional Director, and Scott Brewer - Character Coach for Baylor Men's Basketball.
Our discussion focused on three primary questions: 1. What are the most common and most powerful effects of NIL on the collegiate sports world? 2. How do you see coaches and athletic departments working to deal with it? 3. What are the ministry opportunities arising for us in light of this situation? It's a fast moving 52 minute conversation.
Here is a link to the recording, I hope it is of value to you - https://youtu.be/lQ9lfjoa88g