How I Got My First NIL Deal: Tips From Student-Athletes Like You
Hi, I’m Vickie, and I’ve spent the last 11 years helping athletes of all levels understand and build their personal brands. One of the most common things I hear from student-athletes is: “I don’t even know where to begin.” So, today I want to show you exactly what that first step can look like, with real stories from athletes who were once in your shoes.
These aren’t million-follower influencers. These are everyday student-athletes who saw an opportunity, made a connection, and said yes to something that fit them. And you can, too.
Meet Alex: The Track Athlete Who Partnered with a Smoothie Bar
Alex is a college sprinter who trained every morning near a small, locally-owned smoothie shop. One day, she shared a post tagging them after grabbing her usual peanut butter banana blend. A few hours later, the owner replied and asked if she’d be interested in doing a “Fuel Like Alex” smoothie collab.
Now, every time someone orders her signature smoothie, she gets a small commission, and free smoothies for herself.
Alex’s Tip: “Start with the places you already go. If you love it and already use it, that’s a perfect NIL fit.”
Savanna: The Walk-On Athlete With a Passion for Reading
Savanna, a walk-on volleyball player, wanted to share more than just sports. She loved books and often posted what she was reading and how it helped her mindset as an athlete. One of her followers happened to work at a local bookstore, and they invited her to speak at a “Books & Balance” night for high school students.
She didn’t get paid in cash that time, but she received a gift card, built her speaking confidence, and gained valuable connections for future NIL opportunities.
Savanna’s Tip: “Don’t underestimate the things that make you different. That’s where your value is.”
Marcus: The High School Quarterback Who Made a NIL Deal With His Barber
Marcus was a high school senior with a solid following in his community. His barber shop had been part of his life for years, he even got his pre-game cut there every Friday.
He asked the barber if he could post a few photos and tag the shop in exchange for free cuts during the season. The barber agreed, and the posts brought in a ton of new young customers. Win-win.
Marcus’s Tip: “Ask. You’ll never know if you don’t. Most people are excited to support athletes like us.”
What These Stories Have in Common
None of these athletes waited for a manager or big brand to come knocking. They:
Started with what they already used or loved
Thought local and personal
Asked clearly and respectfully
Made it easy for the business to say yes
These were real NIL deals. They weren’t flashy. But they mattered.
3 Practical Tips to Get Your First NIL Deal
✅ Start with your world. What businesses do you already support, trust, or use regularly?
✅ Reach out with purpose. Keep it simple: who you are, why you like what they do, and how you can help each other.
✅ Be consistent and reliable. You don’t need to be perfect, just professional and easy to work with.
Your first NIL deal doesn’t have to be big: it just has to be yours. Start where you are, use what you’ve got, and build as you go.
Want more stories like these? I’ve got loads from athletes around the world! Just drop me a message or comment and I’ll share some that match your sport, school size, or interests.