PIAA approves policy for student-athletes to profit from name, image, likeness
The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association on Wednesday approved a final policy for high school student-athletes to profit from their name, image and likeness, according to a spokesperson.
The policy, which takes effect immediately, allows student-athletes to obtain commercial endorsements and earn money from promotional activities, including a social media presence.
The PIAA wants to ensure star athletes stay and compete for schools in Pennsylvania and aren't lured to other states with the promise of making big money off their talents.
"There are kids that leave the state of Pennsylvania and go to prep schools or private schools for certain reasons," Upper St. Clair athletic director and boys basketball coach Danny Holzer said. "This may help to keep them in the state of Pennsylvania."
There are some restrictions. Athletes entering a name, image and likeness agreement may not make any reference to the PIAA, member school or team name. They also can't wear their school uniform.
Schools, booster clubs, coaches and alumni can't negotiate or pay for name, image and likeness deals.
The PIAA also listed products and services students are prohibited from endorsing. That list includes:
- Adult entertainment
- Alcohol
- Casinos and gambling
- Tobacco and electronic smoking devices
- Opioids and prescription drugs
- Controlled substances
- Weapons, firearms and ammunition
"I think it could be good for the kids as long as the parents have a little consent to it," said Jody Berbich, who was watching her daughter's Thomas Jefferson High School basketball team take on Upper St. Clair.
Berbich said she was not aware of NIL policies outside of college, but when Pittsburgh's Action News 4 told her about the PIAA's decision Wednesday, she welcomed it.
"These girls don't have time for jobs," Berbich said, pointing to the court. "So it would be beneficial to have some money for college."
Sitting on the opposite end of the gym, Tim Robbins watched as his daughter ran up and down the court for Upper St. Clair. She is committed to play basketball at a Division I college next year.
"I don't know if we're going to encourage her to stay away from [NIL deals] but we're not going to go seeking it out either," said Robbins, who is also a physical education teacher at Upper St. Clair. "We're very happy with the fact that she was able to get a college scholarship. We think that's outstanding and she's going to have her school paid for the next four years. And I think that's enough."
While at the game Wednesday night, Pittsburgh's Action News 4 learned that four-star receiver Rodney Gallagher, of Laurel Highlands, landed an endorsement deal. Gallagher, who is committed to play football at West Virginia University, made the announcement on Twitter.
Students must notify a principal or athletic director within 72 hours of entering into an agreement.