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In 2021, controversy arose when a new National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) policy was implemented allowing student-athletes to profit off their name, image, and likeness (NIL). Although collegiate student-athletes are still considered amateurs, they may now enter into profitable NIL contracts. Like anything new, there are pros, cons, and a learning curve for all parties involved. Typically, over time, change settles in, but after touching base with several current student-athletes, controversy on the topic seems to have lingered.
Michaela Edenfield, a standout catcher at Florida State, was willing to share the ups and downs of her experience with NIL including challenges with managing social media.
“I think I have it in a good spot now,” Edenfield stated. “But I know many of my teammates have faced the issue of feeling like you have to have a certain appeal for an ad.”
Social media has created enough challenges for the public, now add the pressures of presenting yourself in a way you hope will be appealing for both the companies you work with as well as ones you hope to partner with in the future.
Next, layer on the gender discrepancies that still run rampant in our society.
“What bothers me the most is people saying they support and love women’s athletics but don’t do deals with anyone other than males.” Edenfield added.
Actions do speak louder than words.
It hasn’t all been a negative experience for Edenfield, though. Anticipating needing sources of income outside of softball if she’s able to play professionally after college, she appreciates the opportunities to grow her network.
“Compared to men who could make millions from their sport, NIL allows me to have that networking opportunity in college. I’ve been able to have more financial freedom, I don’t come from money, and not only does it help me, but it helps my family not worry as much.”
Outside of her family, Edenfield is deeply passionate about being able to help others.
“I have been able to partner with many brands that align with my personal values. One, for instance, is with a brand called Made Equal. Twenty-five percent of your purchase goes to a single mother’s charity.”
Edenfield was raised by a single mom and it’s inspiring to see her creating opportunities to elevate others in a similar situation. A few short years ago, Edenfield’s impact wouldn’t have been possible.
It’s uplifting to see student-athletes use their platforms to positively impact others, but most softball players are earning limited funds from NIL deals. Of the softball players interviewed for this piece, attending a Power 5 institution seemed to lead to higher rates of NIL opportunities when compared to those at Mid-Major or smaller Division I programs. Will the gap continue expanding between the powerhouse programs and the rest? That may be a discussion for another day. Situations vary greatly from one institution to the next, from sport to sport, and from one athlete to another.