University of Maine Athletics

 
The University of Maine (the University) is supportive of its students being able to control and monetize their personal name, image, and likeness (NIL) to the fullest extent allowed by NCAA and member Conference rules, any applicable state or federal law, and the University Student Code of Conduct, subject to the conditions contained in this Policy. This allows students who are participating in varsity athletic programs the same rights as other University students.
 
However, the University has certain obligations under NCAA rules to ensure that its student-athletes’ NIL activities follow appropriate guidelines. Student-athletes at the University of Maine may engage in arrangements to monetize their NIL, as long as the student-athlete:

1. Proactively disclose all details of NIL activities before the activity occurs and an agreement is confirmed through submission of paperwork in ARMS thought the Athletic Compliance Office;
2. Assume any/all expenses that the student-athlete must assume per NCAA rules. These expenses include: agents, legal and/or professional advisors, business opportunities, brand development, royalties, rentals, taxes, and potential financial ramifications based on NIL and the impact on Financial Aid (i.e., Pell Grant), etc.
3. Are not compensated in any way based on their athletic performance; nor are they compensated as a prospective student-athlete as an incentive to enroll at the University; and
4. Are compensated in a way that reflects actual work performed by the student-athlete, as well as the market rate for that work.

 If a student-athlete’s proposed NIL arrangement complies with the foregoing threshold elements, they may proceed, contingent on the following additional requirements:
 
• May utilize University logos/marks/jerseys/apparel and/or facilities only with prior written approval from the University Athletic Department, in consultation with the University Division of Marketing and Communications, as appropriate. Licensing, facility and rental fees may apply and the student is responsible for covering any such cost.
 
• University employees may not be involved in any NIL arrangement, or in the generation of content for NIL purposes.
 
• Understand that while the University will provide general support and guidance on NIL, student-athletes are ultimately responsible for their own NIL arrangements and all related matters, such as legal, tax, and immigration, including obtaining individualized advice and guidance on such matters .
 
• Understand they will not receive free or reduced cost facility rentals from the University for the conducting of camps/clinics or other such activities that would normally require a rental fee.
 
• Agree they will not seek to receive compensation from protected University sponsors (New Balance, Bangor Savings Bank, etc.) without the approval of the University Department of Athletics. A list of these sponsors is available through Van Wagner upon request.
 
• May not use their NIL to promote products or activities which are illegal or post other institutional or eligibility challenges, including but not limited to alcohol, drugs, gambling, adult entertainment, and NCAA-banned substances. Questions about whether a proposed NIL arrangement is allowed under this Policy should be directed to the University NCAA Compliance Office.
 
• International students, depending on visa status, may be prohibited by US immigration laws from participating in NIL arrangements. International students are encouraged to seek individual legal advice prior to entering into any NIL arrangement. For questions, international student-athletes should reach out to the University NCAA Compliance Office.
 
Violations of this Policy may result in disciplinary action under the University Student Code of Conduct, loss of scholarships and other educational funds; and other consequences beyond the University’s control such as loss of NCAA eligibility and financial and tax penalties.   
 
The University recognizes that rules and laws regarding NIL are evolving. The University may change this policy as applicable rules or laws are implemented. In the meantime, the University will serve as a resource in providing education in areas related to NIL for interested parties.