Name, Image & Likeness (NIL)
In October 2023, California became one of 30 states to allow interscholastic athletes to receive Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) payments. The ability of student-athletes at the high school level to be financially compensated for the use of their name, image or likeness is, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), “here to stay” and it is a new experience for many schools, including Bishop Montgomery.
In his letter published on August 23, 2022, former Commissioner of the California Interscholastic Federation’s Southern Section (CIF-SS) Rob Wigod helped explain the rules of NIL at the high school level so that student-athletes, parents, and school personnel are aware of this new landscape. “As student-athletes get more involved with signing NIL deals and they become more prevalent at the high school level, it is incumbent on everyone involved in education-based athletics to be aware of the relevant rules that apply to this situation,” he writes.
The CIF Bylaws that define what NIL means for high school students are as follows:
CIF Bylaw 212.C - Violations in CIF Sponsored Competition
CIF Bylaw 212.C.(3) states, "Wearing a school team uniform or any identifying school insignia appearing in any advertisement, promotional activity or endorsement for any commercial or service."
CIF Bylaw 212.C.(4) states, "Lending his/her name and team affiliation for purposes of commercial endorsement. any appearances by students for nonprofit organizations must be approved by the Board of Trustees concerned. This provision is not intended to restrict the right of any student to participate in a commercial endorsement provided there is no school team or school affiliation."
"Note: 212.C.(3) and (4) above also includes advertisement, promotional activity, endorsement or affiliation of league, CIF Section(s), or CIF State."
In addition to its bylaws (212.C), the CIF-SS has published the following language in regards to NIL:
“Do – Promote/advertise products as individuals, not affiliated with a high school. Represent businesses as individuals, not affiliated in any way with a high school.”
“Don’t – May not promote/advertise products representing a high school. May not wear any high school uniform, apparel or any item identifying a student with a high school.”
It is the goal of Bishop Montgomery to balance the increasing visibility of student talents with the school’s responsibility to maintain its integrity and reputation. The issue of student notoriety, especially in athletics, arts, or other high-profile areas, requires a thoughtful approach—not just to comply with CIF-SS regulations, but to foster personal growth and safeguard the values for which the school stands.
Given how much more visibility students have today, whether through social media or other public platforms, we are tasked with helping students navigate the complexities of fame, sponsorships, and public image, while reinforcing personal development and responsibility.
For more important and detailed information, download the file below:
