FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is NIL?
NIL stands for “Name, Image, and Likeness” specifically referring to the use of an athlete’s NIL through marketing and promotional endeavors. Student-athletes at NCAA institutions could begin monetizing their NIL beginning on July 1, 2021.
Generally speaking, all NIL activities are permitted, as they follow these four guidelines:
- There must be quid pro quo attached to an NIL deal essentially requiring a student-athlete to do an activity in order to receive compensation.
- That activity cannot be tied to athletic performance such as statistical achievements, wins, or awards.
- That activity cannot be contingent upon the student-athlete committing to the university that the collective supports or tied to enrollment.
- Institutions do not provide compensation in exchange for the use of a student-athlete’s NIL.
What sport(s) does A-Mountain support?
A-Mountain Sports is responsive to the desires of its donors in attempting to support all men’s and women’s varsity sports at NMSU.That activity cannot be tied to athletic performance such as statistical achievements, wins, or awards.
Is A-Mountain Sports part of NMSU?
No. A-Mountain Sports is a private entity. By rule, NIL collectives cannot be a part of an institution. However, A-Mountain Sports is the preferred and official NIL collective working with NMSU student athletes.That activity cannot be contingent upon the student-athlete committing to the university that the collective supports or tied to enrollment.
Does New Mexico have an NIL state law?
Yes. New Mexico has one of the best, athlete-friendly NIL laws in the country. It concisely states that an institution may not prohibit a student athlete from benefiting from the use of his/her NIL.
What is NIL?
100% of contributions go to student athletes. NCAA rules also require student-athletes to follow their state law or institutional policy if there is no existing state law governing NIL activities.
Does A-Mountain Sports take away from the fundraising efforts of the Aggie Athletic Club, the 6th Man Club, the Goal Line Club, or any other NMSU-affiliated athletics fundraise initiative?
That is certainly not the focus. Most of our contributors are supporters of all of the above. The Aggie Athletic Club raises current use funds – funds that can be used by the athletic department at any time during the year at their discretion. The sport-specific ‘booster’ clubs raise current use funds that can be drawn on at the discretion of the coaches. A-Mountain Sports is the only initiative that raises funds that go directly to the student athletes. It is the position of A-Mountain Sports that a three prong approach – be a season ticket holder/AAC Member, support a booster club, and support NIL – is the best way to go “all in” to support the Aggies.
Are contributions to A-Mountain Sports tax deductible?
On the advice of legal experts and financial advisors, our organization is structured as a limited liability company. Given this structure, payments are not tax-deductible nor considered a charitable donation. We do, however, work with business owners to allow them to consider claiming their investments as a marketing expense. We also partner with charitable organizations from time to time. As always, conversations on this or any topic are invited and welcome.
Can I earmark my donation to a specific sport or player?
Yes. Although unrestricted funds allow us to be the most flexible, you will absolutely be able to identify a specific sport you would like your contribution to support when you participate. Your contribution can also be geared toward a specific player, though contributors get access to all A-Mountain player partners.
Will the terms of the agreements be made public?
No. The agreements will be held confidential to help ensure the privacy of our student-athletes.