NIL: What Massachusetts Student Athletes & Families Need to Know
In recent weeks, I've noticed that many of our POLARIS families in Massachusetts are increasingly engaged in discussions about Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). As these conversations continue to evolve, it's essential for student athletes and their families to fully understand how NIL impacts amateur status, especially in relation to the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) guidelines.
Under Rule 47 of the MIAA Handbook (2023–2025), student athletes are required to maintain amateur status in order to participate in interscholastic athletics. This means that their involvement in sports must be solely for personal, educational, and athletic development, rather than for financial gain.
What Can Jeopardize Amateur Status?
A student athlete forfeits amateur status by:
Receiving monetary compensation for competing in sports or accepting awards over a $500 value (with some exceptions).
Accepting gift cards, incentive payments, or expenses not directly related to travel or room and board.
Entering into NIL agreements that do not comply with MIAA policy.
Signing or verbally committing to a professional contract or receiving financial support from a professional sports organization.
Participating under an assumed name in any athletic contest.
Violating any of these rules results in suspension from interscholastic athletics, though reinstatement may be requested through the MIAA Board of Directors.
What Is Allowed?
Despite the strict guidelines, students still have many opportunities to engage in athletics and personal development while staying in compliance. Under MIAA rules:
Students may earn money for officiating or coaching in youth sports or camps.
Private lessons are allowed with appropriate documentation and adherence to NIL policy.
Participation with professionals is allowed as long as the student isn't paid and the professionals aren't under contract or receiving compensation.
Symbolic awards such as trophies, jackets, or pins are permitted.
NIL: What Massachusetts Athletes Need to Know
The MIAA does permit high school athletes to profit from their NIL under specific conditions:
Students must disclose all NIL contracts and representation agreements to their school.
Students cannot use school logos, uniforms, or team branding in NIL activities.
NIL activities must not occur during official team or MIAA tournament events.
NIL deals involving prohibited categories (e.g., alcohol, gambling, tobacco, adult content, weapons) are strictly off-limits.
Importantly, compliance with MIAA NIL rules does not guarantee compliance with NCAA or NAIA eligibility requirements. Students considering college athletics should consult with those organizations directly.
Why This Matters
For student athletes, the landscape of high school sports is evolving. As NIL opportunities increase, so does the responsibility to remain informed and compliant. Understanding the MIAA’s amateurism and NIL rules is critical to maintaining eligibility and protecting future opportunities—whether in high school, college, or beyond.
At POLARIS Student Athlete Consulting, we help families navigate this evolving space with clarity and confidence. Whether you're planning for NIL readiness, college recruitment, or long-term career goals, our team provides expert guidance rooted in transparency, education, and empowerment.