Effective today, a change in NCAA policy will provide Gonzaga student-athletes the opportunity to capitalize on their name, image, and likeness ("NIL").   Approval of this policy comes on the heels of Gonzaga Athletics' announcement of "Next Level," a comprehensive NIL program designed to train student-athletes in personal brand management, financial literacy, business and entrepreneurship, social media, and NIL rules. 

"We have been targeting July 1^st as the date that a new NIL policy would take effect," Gonzaga Director of Athletics Mike Roth said.  "I'm excited about the opportunities this policy will provide Gonzaga student-athletes, and am confident that our Next Level NIL program will position them for success in this new environment."

Pursuant to the new NCAA guidelines, Gonzaga Athletics has adopted a Name, Image, and Likeness Policy that is designed to maximize the NIL opportunities available to Gonzaga student-athletes. That policy is published HERE.  "We believe that NIL is consistent with Gonzaga University's guiding principles of Cura Personalis," indicated incoming Athletic Director Chris Standiford.  "The policy we have put in place is intended to provide robust education and critical support as Gonzaga student-athletes pursue NIL opportunities."     

Gonzaga Athletics enjoys widespread support locally, nationally, and internationally.  As a result of this support, a broad range of Gonzaga student-athletes in all sports can look forward to engaging in NIL activities.  The FAQ below is designed to serve as a resource for boosters, fans, and others interested in engaging in NIL activities.   Additional questions may be directed to compliance@gonzaga.edu.    


 

May Gonzaga boosters participate in NIL activities?

Yes, any third party that is not employed by Gonzaga University may participate in NIL activities with Gonzaga student-athletes.

May Gonzaga student-athletes receive payment based on athletic performance (i.e. pay for play)?

No. Both the NCAA and Gonzaga University strictly prohibit payment based on athletic performance.

May a prospective student-athlete receive payment, or the promise of a NIL opportunity as an inducement to attend Gonzaga University?

No. Both the NCAA and Gonzaga University strictly prohibit recruiting inducements, including the promise of NIL opportunities upon enrollment.

May Gonzaga student-athletes hire an agent?

Yes. Provided the agent's role is limited to NIL marketing activities. Student-athletes are prohibited from hiring an agent to market their athletic ability to secure professional athletic opportunities. Agent relationships must be disclosed to Gonzaga Athletics.

Are student-athletes required to disclose NIL activities?

Yes. Student-athletes must disclose NIL opportunities to Gonzaga Athletics.

May Gonzaga University participate in NIL activities?

No. Gonzaga University, Gonzaga Athletics, and Gonzaga employees may not arrange, facilitate, or participate in NIL activities.

Are there limitations on the types of NIL activities Gonzaga student-athletes may engage in?

Yes. Gonzaga student-athletes may not engage in NIL activities that promote NCAA banned substances or sports wagering activities. In limited circumstances, other NIL opportunities may violate Gonzaga's NIL policy.

May a Gonzaga student-athlete use institutional trademarks during NIL activities?

No. Gonzaga student-athletes may not use institutional trademarks during NIL activities.

May Gonzaga student-athletes engage in NIL activities while participating in mandatory team activities (e.g. competition)?

No.  NIL activities must occur outside of mandatory team activities.  Additionally, team issued gear and equipment must be used during mandatory team activities