The Best NIL Opportunities for Student-Athletes at Any Level

I once helped an athlete with zero followers and zero experience in NIL to land their first deal. Because I knew then and I know it to be true now, this isn’t about level or fame. It’s about value.

Hi, I’m Vickie Saunders. I work with athletes every day, from Olympic hopefuls to walk-ons, from D1 standouts to club team grinders, and I help them build something powerful: a personal brand that opens doors.

And one of the questions I get from parents more than almost any other is this:

“Are there actually NIL opportunities for my child if they’re not a top athlete or at a big school?”

The short answer? YES.

The longer answer? Let’s look at the best NIL opportunities available to student-athletes at every level, even those without massive followings or championship rings.

First, a Quick Reminder: NIL ≠ Fame

The biggest myth I bust on a weekly basis is that NIL is only for “the big names.” It’s not.

NIL is for:
Athletes at all levels (D1, D2, D3, NAIA, JUCO, club)
Athletes with small or no social media followings
Athletes who are curious, proactive, and willing to offer value

This is not about clout. It’s about connection.

So, let’s talk about what that connection can actually look like.

Top NIL Opportunities for Any Student-Athlete

1. Local Business Sponsorships

This is one of the most accessible and meaningful types of NIL opportunities.

Example: A D3 tennis player partners with the local sporting goods store to run free weekend clinics in exchange for gift cards and gear.

Why it works:

• Local businesses love local faces.

• They don’t need your kid to be famous just respected and relatable.

2. Paid Appearances & Events

Appearances are gold; low-pressure, high-impact, and very marketable.

Example: A swimmer speaks at a middle school assembly about discipline and teamwork, and is paid a small fee for sharing their story.

Why it works:

• Great for athletes who enjoy public speaking (or want to try it out).

• Helps build confidence and community connection.

3. Social Media Collaborations

No, they don’t need to be an influencer. They just need alignment.

Example: A volleyball player partners with a local smoothie shop to post a weekly “recovery recipe” on Instagram.

Why it works:

• Authentic, niche content > viral content

• Even small audiences can drive real engagement if the fit is right

4. Private Coaching or Clinics

This is an often-overlooked gem in the NIL space.

Example: A soccer player offers 1:1 or group training sessions for local middle schoolers, promoted through their club and social circles.

Why it works:

• No contracts or content needed. Just skills and a good reputation

• Often paid directly by families or programs

5. Ambassador Roles with Campus or Community Brands

Athletes can become the face of a brand they already use and love.

Example: A cross-country runner becomes a campus ambassador for a running shoe brand, providing product feedback and campus visibility.

Why it works:

• Product perks, early access, and brand connections

• Often flexible and non-public

A Note to Parents: What Really Makes NIL Work

Here’s what I tell every parent: your child’s sport isn’t the only thing that makes them marketable.

What matters is:

• Their story

• Their character

• Their local network

• Their willingness to offer something of value

That’s it.

I’ve worked with athletes who had no idea what they could offer until we talked it through. And suddenly, they saw it. Their kindness, their leadership, their interests, their effort, it all counts.

What You Can Do This Week (Parent Edition)

Here are 3 simple ways you can help your student-athlete get NIL-readywithout pressure or perfection:

1. Brainstorm Local Partners Together

Ask: “What local businesses do you love or already support?”
Often the first NIL opportunity is already in your wallet.

2. List Skills Beyond Sport

Ask: “What are you really good at that people might pay for?”
(Teaching, speaking, organizing, writing, creating, coaching…)

3. Start Small and Simple

Encourage them to do one of these:

• Offer a free clinic to build experience

• Record a video sharing their story

• Create a list of 3 businesses they could approach

Final Thought from Vickie

NIL isn’t just for “certain athletes.” It’s for any athlete who’s ready to turn their story into value.

And I promise you, your student-athlete has something to offer.

The best NIL opportunities aren’t about being the best athlete.
They’re about being the best partner.

Let’s help them start there.