A parent's introduction to high-school NIL
What name, image, and likeness means for high-school athletes, why eligibility depends on where you live, and how parents can stay involved.
Name, image, and likeness, usually shortened to NIL, refers to an athlete earning money or other compensation from their identity: endorsements, social media content, appearances, camps, and similar activities. For high-school athletes, NIL is possible in some places and restricted in others. This guide is a starting point for parents and guardians.
Eligibility depends on where your child plays
High-school NIL is shaped by state law and by the state's high-school athletic association, and schools may have their own policies. Requirements can include restrictions on using school logos or uniforms, limits on certain categories of sponsors, and disclosure rules. Rules also change, so check the current policy with your school's athletic department and your state association. The NFHS website links to state associations.
Why parental involvement matters
Minors generally cannot enter into binding agreements on their own, and NIL arrangements involve your child's name and image. Parents and guardians should be part of every conversation, review any agreement, and make final decisions together with the athlete.
Questions to ask before saying yes
- Has our school and state association confirmed this activity is permitted?
- What exactly is being asked of my child, and how much time will it take?
- How will my child's name and image be used, and for how long?
- Could this affect eligibility for high-school or future college athletics?
- Are there tax or reporting considerations we should ask a professional about?
- Who is the brand, and are they a good fit for our family's values?
Keep it in perspective
For most high-school athletes, school, development, and enjoyment of the sport come first. A good NIL opportunity should fit around those priorities, not compete with them. There are no guaranteed deals, and it is fine to decide an opportunity is not right.
When to get help
If an opportunity involves a written agreement, significant money, or ongoing obligations, consider involving someone experienced and, where appropriate, an attorney. This guide is general information and not legal advice.
This guide is general information, not legal, financial, or eligibility advice. Rules change and vary by location; confirm what applies to you with the relevant organization or a qualified professional.