Dolson discusses the future of the NIL landscape
In a conversation hosted by The Media School earlier this week, Indiana University Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Scott Dolson explored the evolving opportunities of name, image, and likeness deals for student athletes. Since starting his current role in 2020, Dolson has created a NIL task force at IU to support student athletes in understanding, assessing, and capitalizing in NIL opportunities.
Expanding on the NIL task force, Dolson explained the benefits of Indiana not having state laws surrounding NIL deals. “It is good not to have a state law so we can establish our own NIL policy,” said Dolson.
Dolson also addressed the future of NIL within federal legislation. He expressed that he believes bringing NIL to the federal level is the “logical next step,” however anti-trust laws may limit the benefits student athletes can receive from NIL deals.
When asked about the future of NIL deals at IU, Dolson emphasized the importance of the NIL collectives currently in place. “The collectives are growing and becoming the center of gravity where NIL opportunities are created,” Dolson said.
IU currently has two active NIL collectives: Hoosiers for Good and Hoosiers Connect. Hoosiers for Good helps connect athletes with nonprofit organizations and charities, and Hoosiers Connect helps with commercial access and branding.
Throughout his presentation, Dolson stressed the importance of providing equal opportunities to all intercollegiate athletes within the NIL landscape at IU and beyond.