Florida high school athletes can now earn money from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) through endorsements and other deals similar to those of their college counterparts. This significant change, approved by the State Board of Education, overhauls high school sports’ traditional “amateurism” rules.
While acknowledging the potential benefits for student-athletes, officials emphasized the need for safeguards to prevent exploitation, particularly since most athletes are minors. The Florida High School Athletic Association will ensure these protections are in place.
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The new rules allow student-athletes to engage in various commercial activities, such as endorsements, promotional events, and social media branding. However, high schools are prohibited from using NIL deals as a recruitment tool.
During the approval process, concerns about potential pitfalls, such as “bad actors” and exploitative collectives, were raised. Officials reassured that the bylaws will be continuously updated to address emerging issues.
While most NIL deals are expected to be modest, similar to part-time jobs, elite athletes could secure more lucrative opportunities. The association plans to educate parents and students about NIL through online resources.
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This shift in high school athletics mirrors the recent transformation of college sports due to NIL deals. It represents a significant departure from the traditional amateur model, opening new financial avenues for young athletes.
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