NIL Glossary
Plain-language definitions of key NIL terms.
The governing body for Arizona high school sports. Sets eligibility and NIL rules for AZ student athletes.
The traditional concept that athletes don't earn pay for competing. NIL changed this for HS and college athletes — they can earn from their identity, but not for athletic performance.
A supporter or donor of a school's athletic program. AIA rules prohibit boosters from arranging NIL deals for student athletes.
The process of reporting NIL activity to your athletic director, as required by AIA rules.
A savings/investment account a parent or guardian manages for a minor (UTMA/UGMA). Useful for storing NIL earnings safely.
Your ability to participate in school sports. Breaking NIL rules can affect eligibility.
When an athlete is paid to publicly support a brand or product.
A contract term that prevents you from working with competing brands during the deal.
Someone whose audience trusts their recommendations. Many young athletes are influencers on social media.
An athlete's right to earn money from the use of their name, image, and likeness — through sponsorships, content, autographs, lessons, and more.
How you present yourself — values, personality, and reputation — to the public.
Ongoing payment for the continued use of your name or likeness (e.g., a percentage of merchandise sales).
A business paying an athlete to promote or be associated with their product or service.