Student-Athlete Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Policy

In addition to current NCAA rules, University of Louisiana System Policy and Procedures Memorandum IA-V.3, and Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3703, student-athletes are required to adhere to the University’s Student-Athlete Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Policy. The purpose of this policy is to safeguard student-athletes’ eligibility and provide education on financial literacy, enabling them to effectively and safely benefit from their NIL.

Notification Period

Student-athletes must disclose all NIL agreements and engagements through the INFLCR platform at least seven days prior to the agreement’s effective date. Any modifications to the agreement must be reported within seven days of the change.

Prohibited NIL Endorsements

Per Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3703, student-athletes are prohibited from entering into NIL agreements that conflict with existing institutional sponsorships or involve the endorsement of:

• Tobacco products;
• Alcohol;
• Illegal substances or activities;
• NCAA-banned substances;
• Any form of gambling or gaming, including sports wagering;
• Adult entertainment; or
• Any entity or product contrary to the values of McNeese State University.

Use of University Facilities, Uniforms, Logos, and Trademarks

Student-athletes are prohibited from using University facilities, uniforms, registered trademarks, products protected by copyright, or official logos, marks, colors, or other indicia to promote their NIL without deals unless licensed through a separate agreement with the University or the McNeese Athletic Foundation. Any such NIL deal cannot be executed until written permission is received. Any use of an athletics facility is subject to the University’s Facilities Use Policy.

Duration of Contracts

The duration of a contract for representation or compensation related to a student-athlete’s NIL shall not extend beyond the student-athlete’s participation in an athletic program at the University.

International Student-Athletes

International student-athletes should consult the Office of International Student Services to understand how engaging in NIL activities may affect their visa status, as regulations may vary.

Recruiting Inducements

In accordance with NCAA policy, boosters are prohibited from offering compensation or NIL opportunities to prospective or current student-athletes as an inducement for enrollment or continued enrollment at a particular institution. Student-athletes may not receive compensation for their NIL while participating in official team activities, including practices, games, or other organized team events.

Professional Representation

Student-athletes are permitted to obtain professional representation by an athlete agent, marketing representative, or attorney for the purpose of securing compensation for their NIL, provided that such representation is by individuals registered with or licensed by the state, in accordance with Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3703.

Financial Literacy and Life Skills Workshop

The University will conduct a financial literacy and life skills workshop for a minimum of two and one-half hours annually. The workshop will cover topics including financial aid, debt management, budgeting based on the cost of attendance, time management skills necessary for success as a student-athlete, and available academic resources. The workshop shall not include any marketing, advertising, referral, or solicitation by providers of financial products or services.

Confidentiality

Any documents disclosed by the student-athlete to the University that reference the terms and conditions of the athlete’s NIL contract shall be confidential and not subject to public inspection, in accordance with Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3703.

Violations and Penalties

Violations of this policy and/or state law may result in penalties, including suspensions, fines, dismissal from the team, or loss of athletic scholarship.

Additional Information

For any questions regarding NIL policies, agreements, or compliance, student-athletes should review the NIL FAQs or contact McNeese Athletics Compliance (see Athletics Directory).

Communication

This policy is distributed via the University Policies webpage and through routine communication with student-athletes by the McNeese Athletics Compliance staff.

This policy is subject to change in accordance with updates to NCAA regulations, state laws, or University policies.