WIAA Name Image and Likeness (NIL) Guidance for High School Athletes

High school athletes may have chances to earn money by promoting a company, product or event. This is called Name, Image and Likeness (NIL). NIL opportunities are allowed, but there are important rules from the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) that students must follow. If NIL rules are broken, students could lose their ability to compete in high school or college sports.

Understanding NIL:

  • Name: Your legal name, nickname, or pseudonym.
  • Image: Still photos, video footage, avatars, and physical likeness.
  • Likeness: A person’s recognizable voice, signature, or distinctive physical attributes that identify them

Types of NIL opportunities:

NIL rules apply when a student athlete uses their personal brand, including their name, photos, signature, voice, and public persona to earn money. Examples of include (but are not limited to):

  • Social media posts
  • Sponsorships and promotions
  • Teaching lessons or running camps/clinics
  • Personal branding, merchandise or licensing

Questions:

Students and families can reach out to their school’s Athletic Director with questions.

Student and Family Guidance

Sponsor Guidance