Amateurism is as integral to the NCAA’s pursuits and bylaws as intercollegiate athletics are to the entire collegiate experience. Several rules govern the ability of student-athletes to promote causes both in the private and non-profit sectors. Currently, a commercial business, service, or product may not use a student-athlete’s name, image, or likeness in its promotional items. Violations of these bylaws can lead to the ineligibility of student-athletes.
Thus, student-athletes would not be eligible for collegiate participation if they:
- Accept any remuneration for or permit the use of their names or pictures to advertise, recommend, or promote directly the sale or use of a commercial product or service of any kind. This includes using social media profiles or accounts (i.e. re-tweeting, posting on a timeline on Facebook, or posting pictures to Instagram feeds).
- Receive remuneration for endorsing a commercial product or service through the individual use of the product or service.
When it comes to the promotion of student-athletes by non-profits, charities, or University of Miami initiatives, student-athletes’ names, images, and likenesses can be used under specific circumstances (once approved by the UM Athletics Department). The Athletics Department, on behalf of the student-athletes, welcomes these opportunities, which are available by completing a “Promotional Activity Request Form,” available on the www.hurricanesports.com website.
While a student-athlete may express an opinion about a product, service, or item, if the business uses a student-athlete’s name, image, or likeness to promote a product with or without the permission of the student-athlete, the eligibility of that student-athlete may be jeopardized. The Athletics Department asks all UM fans and supporters to refrain from using any student-athlete’s name, image, or likeness in a way that could affect their eligibility. The University strives to maintain a culture of compliance, and efforts by staff members, boosters, and fans are greatly appreciated.
For more compliance information, follow the UM Athletics Department on Twitter (@UCompliance), like them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/UCompliance), or contact them via email, [email protected].