Blueprint Sports has acquired Student Athlete NIL (SANIL), Blueprint CEO Rob Sine told On3 on Wednesday morning. The two major NIL collective operating companies will now merge and operate 70 collectives that delivered over $108 million in payments in 2024. The move comes as schools prepare for revenue sharing to begin on July 1. Schools will be able to share $20.5 million in Year One of rev sharing if the House v. NCAA settlement is approved this spring. “I firmly believe, and we were making a big bet with this, that in-house agencies are going to continue to exist,” Sine told On3. “We’re in the process of signing several, multi-year deals with Power Four clients. We believe we’re going to be a seat at the table to help the schools as they navigate through this, whether it’s making payments for them, but it’s about the additive revenue that these budgets are probably going to need, above and beyond what the rev share is going to dictate.” The conversations about a possible merger have been in the works since August, Sine said. SANIL and Blueprint have a strong Group of Five presence and will work with 15 Power Four schools. The initial focus will be on college basketball with so many mid-major programs. SANIL founder Jason Belzer stepped down from his advisory role with the company to pursue other opportunities in January. He stepped down as SANIL’s CEO in July. “What we’ve done in the last four years is what the multimedia rights industry has done over the last 50 which has become a valued partner to athletic departments,” Sine said. “We’ve been able to speed up what has taken them a long time. What it now is, is what else can we do? How else can we be of service to the athletic departments and the conferences? How do we be nimble? “This may turn into who knows what in the next few years, but at the end of the day, it’s about making sure that we have a seat at the table, and we can help from a revenue standpoint, and we can drive this.” Read the full article here .
Blueprint Sports has acquired Student Athlete NIL (SANIL), Blueprint CEO Rob Sine told On3 on Wednesday morning. The two major NIL collective operating companies will now merge and operate 70 collectives that delivered over $108 million in payments in 2024. The move comes as schools prepare for revenue sharing to begin on July 1. Schools will be able to share $20.5 million in Year One of rev sharing if the House v. NCAA settlement is approved this spring. “I firmly believe, and we were making a big bet with this, that in-house agencies are going to continue to exist,” Sine told On3. “We’re in the process of signing several, multi-year deals with Power Four clients. We believe we’re going to be a seat at the table to help the schools as they navigate through this, whether it’s making payments for them, but it’s about the additive revenue that these budgets are probably going to need, above and beyond what the rev share is going to dictate.” The conversations about a possible merger have been in the works since August, Sine said. SANIL and Blueprint have a strong Group of Five presence and will work with 15 Power Four schools. The initial focus will be on college basketball with so many mid-major programs. SANIL founder Jason Belzer stepped down from his advisory role with the company to pursue other opportunities in January. He stepped down as SANIL’s CEO in July. “What we’ve done in the last four years is what the multimedia rights industry has done over the last 50 which has become a valued partner to athletic departments,” Sine said. “We’ve been able to speed up what has taken them a long time. What it now is, is what else can we do? How else can we be of service to the athletic departments and the conferences? How do we be nimble? “This may turn into who knows what in the next few years, but at the end of the day, it’s about making sure that we have a seat at the table, and we can help from a revenue standpoint, and we can drive this.” Read the full article here
Blueprint Sports Transforms College Athletics Landscape with Strategic Acquisition of SANIL, Establishing a $100M+ NIL Powerhouse Agency The acquisition establishes the most comprehensive NIL technology, data, and revenue services agency in college sports, supporting over 25,000 student-athletes and 70 athletic department partners. Las Vegas, NV & Atlanta, GA – [February 19, 2025] – Blueprint Sports , the leading agency of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) services for collegiate athletic departments and student-athletes in the country, today announced its acquisition of SANIL, another early pioneer in the NIL landscape. In 2024 alone, the two agencies raised and delivered over $108 million in NIL payments to student-athletes across 70 collegiate athletic departments, highlighting their success in creating an effective “in-house” NIL revenue and management solution. This strategic acquisition positions Blueprint Sports as a leading NIL force in transforming collegiate athletics. It provides dedicated on-campus revenue-generating NIL personnel with enterprise-grade digital solutions that generate new commercial fan revenue, ensure compliance, and reveal actionable insights through advanced analytics on fans and student-athletes. The timing aligns with anticipated regulatory changes resulting from the potential House vs. NCAA settlement, permitting athletic departments and conferences to establish internal NIL agencies to capitalize on emerging commercial opportunities with industry leaders like Blueprint Sports. “This is about the future of college athletics and further establishes Blueprint Sports as a key partner for athletic departments and conferences as they bring in and implement modern solutions to find new revenue for their student-athletes through NIL,” said Rob Sine, CEO of Blueprint Sports. “Both companies have experienced tremendous transformations to remain agile over the past four years. The new leadership team that SANIL has assembled in the last eight months and their substantial investment in technology made this acquisition an exciting opportunity for us. This move will enable us to unify the brightest minds and offer the most innovative solutions and top-tier NIL and data services to generate revenue and empower the next generation of college athletic departments and conferences.” “We have transformed from a transactional NIL-only vendor to a tech-enabled, data-driven business that solves challenges for our athletic department partners,” said Chris Brown, former SANIL CEO and newly appointed COO for Blueprint Sports. “This acquisition merges both companies' proven NIL and data solutions to create the most advanced technology and services platform in collegiate sports. Our ‘software and a service’ model and enterprise-grade infrastructure enable athletic departments to accelerate new NIL revenue growth with our on-campus team, leverage data insights, and be well-positioned for long-term success with NIL." Key Benefits for Stakeholders: Power Four Athletic Departments: Enterprise-grade technology platform to manage revenue sharing and NIL programming Dedicated on-campus revenue-generating NIL personnel and implementation support Expanded national corporate partnership network for NIL Comprehensive NIL compensation data to maximize roster and player allocations Real-time NIL financial tracking and transparent payment solutions Comprehensive fan engagement and monetization platform Mid-Major Athletic Departments: Enterprise-grade technology platform to manage revenue sharing and NIL programming Dedicated national NIL revenue-generating personnel and implementation support Comprehensive NIL compensation data to maximize roster and player allocations Data-driven insights for strategic NIL decision-making Comprehensive fan engagement and monetization platform “Our partners want to win championships for their student-athletes, supporters, and partners,” said Rob Sine. “Together, we offer a powerful solution that empowers Athletic Directors and their coaches to strive towards that goal every year.” For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram , Linkedin , and X . About Blueprint Sports Blueprint Sports is a tech-enabled, “software and a service” agency that has facilitated over $135 million in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings for NCAA student-athletes since 2021. We navigate the complexities of modern college athletics with NIL to provide next-generation, scalable services to Power Four and Mid-Major Athletic Departments and Conferences across Division I and Division II. Our platform includes comprehensive NIL revenue share and student-athlete roster strategy and management, proven strategies for generating NIL commercial revenue, and fan engagement and monetization. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram , Linkedin , and X . Media Contact Marina Bain Senior Director of Communications – Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
State College, PA — [January 7, 2025] — Happy Valley United, the premier NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) collective supporting Penn State student-athletes, is excited to announce the launch of its brand-new mobile app, designed to keep fans connected to Penn State Athletics like never before, while offering exclusive content, interactive features, and the opportunity to earn rewards for supporting their favorite Nittany Lion athletes. Fans can now download the Happy Valley United app, powered by The Membership Co’s CrowdCOLLECTIVE platform, on both Android and Apple devices to stay up-to-date on the latest news surrounding Penn State Athletics and HVU, including behind-the-scenes access to Nittany Lion athletes. The Happy Valley United app features daily games, a dynamic social media wall, an HVU member forum for discussion, and much more. It’s the ultimate way to engage with the community and support the student-athletes who make Penn State Athletics a national powerhouse. A standout feature of the HVU app, and all apps developed by The Membership Co, is the rewards program, where fans can earn points for nearly every action within the app. Whether you’re interacting with exclusive content, participating in games, or simply engaging with other fans, the more you do, the more points you earn. These points can be redeemed for exciting rewards and exclusive access to events, making every interaction a win for both fans and athletes. Special Launch Promotion To celebrate the launch of the app, HVU is offering an exclusive giveaway for all new users. Everyone who downloads the app will be entered to win an exclusive Axia Time Penn State CFP Watch and Collector’s Case, personally signed by Coach James Franklin . Additionally, all entrants will receive a code for $10 off any purchase of Happy Valley United merchandise, giving fans a perfect opportunity to show their Nittany Lion pride while supporting Penn State athletes. This is an exciting time to join the HVU community as Penn State prepares to face Notre Dame in the CFP semifinals this week. Fans can stay engaged, support the team, and help drive championship-caliber play while making a tangible difference in the lives of student-athletes. “Whether you're cheering on the Nittany Lions in the biggest games, chatting with fellow fans about your favorite teams, participating in our Penn State-themed challenges for points, or getting an exclusive look into the lives of our athletes, the HVU app is the best way to stay connected,” said Rich Stankewicz, Director of Operations for Happy Valley United. “We’re thrilled to offer our fans a new way to support Penn State athletes, earn rewards, and help our athletes thrive.” Download the Happy Valley United app now to get started: Google Play Store Apple App Store Fans are encouraged to download the app and join the HVU community today to support the Nittany Lions as they continue their pursuit of history, greatness, and championships. About Happy Valley United: Happy Valley United (HVU) is the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective dedicated to supporting all 31 Penn State athletic teams and over 830 student-athletes. Through HVU, fans, alumni, and supporters contribute to providing Penn State student-athletes with opportunities to build their personal brands while ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed. Through a combination of fundraising initiatives, partnerships, and events, Happy Valley United works to elevate the Nittany Lions’ success while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of athletes. You can get involved by making a one-time donation, joining as a member, or exploring corporate sponsorships. HVU is powered by Blueprint Sports. To learn more about NIL opportunities with Penn State student-athletes, visit happyvalleyunited.com and follow @happyvalleyutd on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. About The Membership Co: The Membership Co is a full service membership agency that aims to create meaningful communities to amplify fan and member engagement and drive additional revenue. Through cutting-edge technology solutions, white-label app development, website creation, brand development, merchandise design/fulfillment, e-commerce integration and membership/customer operations, The Membership Co provides exceptional membership experience and revenue generation for NIL collectives, sports teams, fan clubs, and organizations in any vertical or any audience. Reach out to Collin Wolff at collin@themembershipco.com for more details. Media Contacts Happy Valley United Marina Bain – Sr Director of Communications, Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com The Membership Co. Collin Wolff – Director of Growth, The Membership Co. collin@themembershipco.com
The NIL market is expected to be worth around $1.7 Billion in the 2024-2025 season according to Opendorse. $1.1 billion of that is going to college football. Men’s basketball players earned around $389 million. Women’s basketball players received around $75 million. Olympic athletes have generated around $134 million dollars. The money making began back in July 2021, when the Supreme Court ruled the NCAA could not prevent student athletes from profiting by their name, image and likeness. Since the decision, the legal fights have continued between the NCAA and state legislatures. "It's been really interesting to watch the competitive balance between the states," Rob Sine said, CEO of Blueprint Sports. "Tennessee is more aggressive, Florida wants to get more aggressive, and then Texas wants to get more aggressive. More state laws are passed and repealed and then passed again." Blueprint Sports oversees several high-profile collectives across the country. Boosters, individual donors and businesses often choose to fund collectives which then pay athletes for appearances or endorsements. The groups are estimated to control around 80% of the NIL Market. "The schools are already spread so thin. So, for a professional services unit, they're happy to know that, hey, we'll put staff on campus, that will represent them and the student athletes," Sine said. "The collective as a marketing agency, we’ll handle all the operations, we’ll provide that third party arm for athletic departments where we can do negotiations with agents, we can do negotiations with athletes we can handle if an athlete enters the transfer portal, terminating the contract, or things like that." Blueprint Sports oversees collectives from across the country, including NC State’s One Pack NIL, Colorado’s 5430 Alliance, Pennsylvania’s Happy Valley United and Arkansas’ Arkansas Edge. "Pennsylvania has different rules than Arkansas does or than North Carolina does," Sine said. "The NCAA guidelines are there to be exactly what is, set guidelines. Then you have to follow the state law in certain areas." The first guidance from the NCAA in 2021 aligned with the Supreme Court decision. Athletes could be paid if state law allowed. The rules did attempt to prevent schools from using NIL money to recruit athletes. "It was a lot easier," Sen. Tommy Tuberville R-Ala. said referencing how NIL laws have changed the recruiting process in recent years. "There's really no recruiting now. It's buying. It's totally different." Before Tuberville was elected to the senate, he coached at Ole Miss, Auburn, Texas Tech and Cincinnati. He has since co-sponsored NIL legislation alongside Sen. Joe Manchin I-W.V. He plans to reintroduce or modify the Protecting Athletes, Schools and Sports Act (PASS Act) alongside a democrat in the next congress. "In football and basketball, it's whoever's got the most money," Tuberville said. California signed the first state NIL law in 2019. Several others began to follow suit. Eventually, legislatures began passing laws to circumvent NCAA guidance, to allow NIL money to be used for recruiting. "Over the years, the money's gotten higher and higher and the student athletes are going, wait a minute, you know, why don't we get some of that money? Why don't we share in the revenue?" Tuberville said. Tuberville says collectives have too much influence and that legislation like the PASS Act would help level the playing field. But collectives disagree. "I don't think the federal government is the way to do it. I think it creates a whole lot more complications," Sine said. "I've watched those hearings before and there's not a lot of direction and bright ideas coming out of it. There's been a lot of drafts of bills. I think it'll be hard for them to get anything passed." Not all university officials believe the federal government should stay out of the NIL debate. "This is a free market economy. We live in the greatest country in the world. And I think it's great that our student athletes are now finally being able to be compensated for what they're worth But we need national standards in college sports. Every coach needs to know that when that ball gets tipped off, we're all playing by the same rules. And right now, we're not," Auburn Men’s Basketball Coach Bruce Pearl said. Initial laws in Alabama and South Carolina reflected NCAA guidance that prevented using NIL money for recruitment. Other states began to pass laws that strayed from that guidance and allowed loopholes for third party donors to promise money for potential student athletes. That prompted the NCAA to shift its stance. In 2022, the Division 1 Board of Directors clarified that schools could request donors to provide funds for collectives, as long as those were not directed to a specific sport or athlete. "Back in the day it was about graduation rates, or it was about, can you help me get to the NBA? Are we going to win championships? What's the culture of the program like? Those things were more important to parents," Pearl said. "Now it's become way more transactional. What is my market value? How much will I get if I go to that school? And of course, everybody's playing with a different budget right now. And that's what makes it somewhat unfair." The updated NCAA guidance prompted Alabama and South Carolina to repeal initial NIL laws. Both states determined that other schools had more opportunities to recruit better players. "It did give us a little bit more freedom," Pearl sad. "We'd like for conferences and the people that are guiding our programs to be able to be empowered. Right now, everything goes to the courts. They lose every lawsuit." Texas passed its legislation in 2023, which strayed from NCAA guidance in allowing donations for specific sports. The law also permits perks and benefits for fans who donate to NIL collectives. A clause also made it illegal for the NCAA to punish a school for taking full advantage of NIL. "A lot of people began to find a gray area. And so, donors or other organizations around the country were looking at this going, okay, well we're going to raise, instead of $100,000, we're going to raise $2 million or we're going to raise $20 million and we're going to really begin to build this and create a very competitive advantage because nobody's telling us we can't," Sine said. New transfer portal rules have increased competition to find better players and pay out more money. A couple of months before the Supreme Court issued its NIL decision, the NCAA updated its transfer portal policy, allowing Division I athletes a on-time opportunity to transfer and compete immediately. Originally, an athlete could transfer schools, but needed to sit out a year before playing, unless granted a waiver by the NCAA. In 2024, the association updated its guidance to allow for unlimited transfers as long as the athletes met certain academic eligibility requirements. "Marshall University's football team, almost every one of them transferred. They had to drop out of a bowl game," Tuberville said. "Their coach left and they followed them." Marshall was set to face Army in the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl. Instead, dozens of Marshall athletes entered the transfer portal. Army will now face Louisiana Tech instead. "I understand families being in a situation where they may never make more money than they're making right now. And so that's what they're being guided by. We're teaching kids to flee, not fight." UNLV Quarterback Matthew Sluka announced in September he would enter the transfer portal for a second time in his college career. Sluka’s agent said a $100,000 NIL payment was never fulfilled after he agreed to transfer to UNLV. "Graduation rates have been destroyed because the combination of NIL and the transfer portal working together, these guys are free agents," Pearl sad. "In some cases the money can be significant." State laws also differ on who can represent student athletes. In 2019, the Uniform Law Commission recommended states adopt the Uniform Athletes Agents Act. It allowed student athletes to hire agents with the intent of protecting them from unfair practices. At least 39 states have adopted the law but it has no mention of NIL. Some legislatures have added agent clauses to state laws. "Players have agents, they have lawyers, they have accountants. That's what we fought against for many, many years. Don't sign with agents. Keep them out of your life. But college football, college sports have grown." The NCAA will now allow universities to pay players directly, in addition to what they are already receiving through scholarships and third-party payments. Each school has a cap of up to $20.5 million across all sports. Schools are already directing most of that to football programs. "We're going to lose a lot of football programs, basketball programs and women's sports if we don't come up with some kind of solution. The NCAA has got to work with us," Tuberville said. "There's really not a lot of answers when you got so many hands in the pie and everybody wants it their way." Bret Baier currently serves as FOX News Channel's (FNC) anchor and executive editor of Special Report with Bret Baier (weeknights at 6-7PM/ET), chief political anchor of the network and co-anchor of the network’s election coverage. Baier is also host of FOX News Audio's "The Bret Baier Podcast" which includes Common Ground and The All-Star Panel. He joined FNC in 1998 as the first reporter in the Atlanta bureau and is now based in Washington, D.C. Read the full article here
The NIL market is expected to be worth around $1.7 Billion in the 2024-2025 season according to Opendorse. $1.1 billion of that is going to college football. Men’s basketball players earned around $389 million. Women’s basketball players received around $75 million. Olympic athletes have generated around $134 million dollars. The money making began back in July 2021, when the Supreme Court ruled the NCAA could not prevent student athletes from profiting by their name, image and likeness. Since the decision, the legal fights have continued between the NCAA and state legislatures. "It's been really interesting to watch the competitive balance between the states," Rob Sine said, CEO of Blueprint Sports. "Tennessee is more aggressive, Florida wants to get more aggressive, and then Texas wants to get more aggressive. More state laws are passed and repealed and then passed again." Blueprint Sports oversees several high-profile collectives across the country. Boosters, individual donors and businesses often choose to fund collectives which then pay athletes for appearances or endorsements. The groups are estimated to control around 80% of the NIL Market. "The schools are already spread so thin. So, for a professional services unit, they're happy to know that, hey, we'll put staff on campus, that will represent them and the student athletes," Sine said. "The collective as a marketing agency, we’ll handle all the operations, we’ll provide that third party arm for athletic departments where we can do negotiations with agents, we can do negotiations with athletes we can handle if an athlete enters the transfer portal, terminating the contract, or things like that." Blueprint Sports oversees collectives from across the country, including NC State’s One Pack NIL, Colorado’s 5430 Alliance, Pennsylvania’s Happy Valley United and Arkansas’ Arkansas Edge. "Pennsylvania has different rules than Arkansas does or than North Carolina does," Sine said. "The NCAA guidelines are there to be exactly what is, set guidelines. Then you have to follow the state law in certain areas." The first guidance from the NCAA in 2021 aligned with the Supreme Court decision. Athletes could be paid if state law allowed. The rules did attempt to prevent schools from using NIL money to recruit athletes. "It was a lot easier," Sen. Tommy Tuberville R-Ala. said referencing how NIL laws have changed the recruiting process in recent years. "There's really no recruiting now. It's buying. It's totally different." Before Tuberville was elected to the senate, he coached at Ole Miss, Auburn, Texas Tech and Cincinnati. He has since co-sponsored NIL legislation alongside Sen. Joe Manchin I-W.V. He plans to reintroduce or modify the Protecting Athletes, Schools and Sports Act (PASS Act) alongside a democrat in the next congress. "In football and basketball, it's whoever's got the most money," Tuberville said. California signed the first state NIL law in 2019. Several others began to follow suit. Eventually, legislatures began passing laws to circumvent NCAA guidance, to allow NIL money to be used for recruiting. "Over the years, the money's gotten higher and higher and the student athletes are going, wait a minute, you know, why don't we get some of that money? Why don't we share in the revenue?" Tuberville said. Tuberville says collectives have too much influence and that legislation like the PASS Act would help level the playing field. But collectives disagree. "I don't think the federal government is the way to do it. I think it creates a whole lot more complications," Sine said. "I've watched those hearings before and there's not a lot of direction and bright ideas coming out of it. There's been a lot of drafts of bills. I think it'll be hard for them to get anything passed." Not all university officials believe the federal government should stay out of the NIL debate. "This is a free market economy. We live in the greatest country in the world. And I think it's great that our student athletes are now finally being able to be compensated for what they're worth But we need national standards in college sports. Every coach needs to know that when that ball gets tipped off, we're all playing by the same rules. And right now, we're not," Auburn Men’s Basketball Coach Bruce Pearl said. Initial laws in Alabama and South Carolina reflected NCAA guidance that prevented using NIL money for recruitment. Other states began to pass laws that strayed from that guidance and allowed loopholes for third party donors to promise money for potential student athletes. That prompted the NCAA to shift its stance. In 2022, the Division 1 Board of Directors clarified that schools could request donors to provide funds for collectives, as long as those were not directed to a specific sport or athlete. "Back in the day it was about graduation rates, or it was about, can you help me get to the NBA? Are we going to win championships? What's the culture of the program like? Those things were more important to parents," Pearl said. "Now it's become way more transactional. What is my market value? How much will I get if I go to that school? And of course, everybody's playing with a different budget right now. And that's what makes it somewhat unfair." The updated NCAA guidance prompted Alabama and South Carolina to repeal initial NIL laws. Both states determined that other schools had more opportunities to recruit better players. "It did give us a little bit more freedom," Pearl sad. "We'd like for conferences and the people that are guiding our programs to be able to be empowered. Right now, everything goes to the courts. They lose every lawsuit." Texas passed its legislation in 2023, which strayed from NCAA guidance in allowing donations for specific sports. The law also permits perks and benefits for fans who donate to NIL collectives. A clause also made it illegal for the NCAA to punish a school for taking full advantage of NIL. "A lot of people began to find a gray area. And so, donors or other organizations around the country were looking at this going, okay, well we're going to raise, instead of $100,000, we're going to raise $2 million or we're going to raise $20 million and we're going to really begin to build this and create a very competitive advantage because nobody's telling us we can't," Sine said. New transfer portal rules have increased competition to find better players and pay out more money. A couple of months before the Supreme Court issued its NIL decision, the NCAA updated its transfer portal policy, allowing Division I athletes a on-time opportunity to transfer and compete immediately. Originally, an athlete could transfer schools, but needed to sit out a year before playing, unless granted a waiver by the NCAA. In 2024, the association updated its guidance to allow for unlimited transfers as long as the athletes met certain academic eligibility requirements. "Marshall University's football team, almost every one of them transferred. They had to drop out of a bowl game," Tuberville said. "Their coach left and they followed them." Marshall was set to face Army in the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl. Instead, dozens of Marshall athletes entered the transfer portal. Army will now face Louisiana Tech instead. "I understand families being in a situation where they may never make more money than they're making right now. And so that's what they're being guided by. We're teaching kids to flee, not fight." UNLV Quarterback Matthew Sluka announced in September he would enter the transfer portal for a second time in his college career. Sluka’s agent said a $100,000 NIL payment was never fulfilled after he agreed to transfer to UNLV. "Graduation rates have been destroyed because the combination of NIL and the transfer portal working together, these guys are free agents," Pearl sad. "In some cases the money can be significant." State laws also differ on who can represent student athletes. In 2019, the Uniform Law Commission recommended states adopt the Uniform Athletes Agents Act. It allowed student athletes to hire agents with the intent of protecting them from unfair practices. At least 39 states have adopted the law but it has no mention of NIL. Some legislatures have added agent clauses to state laws. "Players have agents, they have lawyers, they have accountants. That's what we fought against for many, many years. Don't sign with agents. Keep them out of your life. But college football, college sports have grown." The NCAA will now allow universities to pay players directly, in addition to what they are already receiving through scholarships and third-party payments. Each school has a cap of up to $20.5 million across all sports. Schools are already directing most of that to football programs. "We're going to lose a lot of football programs, basketball programs and women's sports if we don't come up with some kind of solution. The NCAA has got to work with us," Tuberville said. "There's really not a lot of answers when you got so many hands in the pie and everybody wants it their way." Bret Baier currently serves as FOX News Channel's (FNC) anchor and executive editor of Special Report with Bret Baier (weeknights at 6-7PM/ET), chief political anchor of the network and co-anchor of the network’s election coverage. Baier is also host of FOX News Audio's "The Bret Baier Podcast" which includes Common Ground and The All-Star Panel. He joined FNC in 1998 as the first reporter in the Atlanta bureau and is now based in Washington, D.C. Read the full article here
LAS VEGAS (December 19, 2024) – After clinching their historic victory in the LA Bowl, the UNLV Football team has closed out one of the best seasons in program history, and the excitement surrounding the future of Rebel Football is at an all-time high. As Coach Dan Mullen settles into his new role, the momentum surrounding the program has never been stronger. That’s why Friends of UNILV, the collective supporting Rebel student-athletes, has launched the Mullen Mission, an ambitious fundraising initiative designed to support Rebel student-athletes and build a championship-caliber roster for next season. This campaign is a call to action for fans, alumni, and supporters to rally behind the team and help the Rebels sustain their success as they look ahead to an even brighter 2025-2026 season. The Mullen Mission aims to raise critical funds to bolster the team’s recruitment and retention efforts, ensuring that UNLV Football remains competitive in the evolving landscape of college athletics and in the age of NIL. “This season marked an exciting new chapter for UNLV Football,” said Shannon Cottrell, Executive Director of Friends of UNLV. “Coach Dan Mullen’s vision for a championship-caliber team will build on a program that was just one win away from a playoff game. The Mullen Mission is about more than fundraising—it's about creating a sustainable future for Rebel Football and giving our players the resources they need to succeed. In today’s college athletics landscape, every contribution, big or small, directly supports our ability to recruit and retain top talent. We’re grateful for the support of our fans, alumni, and community, and together, we’ll ensure the Rebels continue to thrive and compete at the highest level.” Exclusive Donor Rewards To incentivize early support, Mullen Mission contributors can receive autographed memorabilia: $500+ – Student-Athlete Signed Poster $2,000+ – 2024 Team Signed Football $5,000+ – 2024 Team Signed Game-Worn Helmet Additionally, every contributor to the Mullen Mission will be entered for a chance to win a Friends of UNILV Swag Pack, filled with exclusive Rebel gear and other exciting surprises. How to Get Involved To contribute to the Mullen Mission and secure your exclusive autographed memorabilia, visit www.FriendsOfUNILV.com/MullenMission today. Your contribution will help build a stronger future for UNLV Football, enhance student-athlete experiences, and help make UNLV a consistent contender in the Mountain West and beyond. (Please note that contributions to the Mullen Mission are not tax-deductible.) About Friends of UNILV Friends of UNILV is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for University of Nevada Las Vegas student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Friends of UNILV, are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Friends of UNILV is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information visit friendsofunilv.com and follow @FriendsOfUNILV on Facebook, X , and Instagram. For more information about Friends of UNILV and the Mullen Mission, please visit www.FriendsOfUNILV.com or follow us on social media at @FriendsOfUNILV. Media Contact Shannon Cottrell General Manager, Friends of UNILV shannon@friendsofunilv.com
State College, PA — [December 17, 2024] — The excitement is palpable across Nittany Nation as the Penn State Nittany Lions prepare for a historic moment in college football. On December 21, 2024, Penn State will play in its first-ever College Football Playoff (CFP) game, hosting Southern Methodist University (SMU) at Beaver Stadium in a landmark postseason battle. To support the team during this groundbreaking journey, Happy Valley United is launching a major fundraising campaign to help fuel Penn State’s efforts as they chase the ultimate prize in college football. This season marks an unprecedented achievement for Penn State football. Happy Valley United is calling on the entire Penn State community to come together to provide crucial resources for the program. The funds raised will support initiatives that benefit the players, coaches, and the entire football program, from scholarships to training and team development—critical components that will ensure Penn State remains competitive in future seasons. "We’re incredibly proud of what this team has accomplished, and we’re thrilled to play a role in helping them achieve even greater things in the College Football Playoff," said Jen Ferrang, General Manager of Happy Valley United. "This is a defining moment for Penn State football, and we encourage Nittany Lions everywhere—whether you’re in Happy Valley or cheering from afar—to show your support. The energy and enthusiasm of our community will be essential as the team continues to make history." How You Can Be Part of This Historic Moment: Make a Donation: Fans can show their support by contributing to Happy Valley United’s official fundraising page. The campaign is live now, and every donation helps propel the team’s journey in the Playoffs, and by retaining the roster for future years to come! Donate now ! Attend Holiday Happy Hour: Celebrate the big game with us at a special Happy Hour event in State College the night before the College Football Playoff matchup. Join us on December 20th from 5:30-7:30 at the Toftrees Ballroom. There will be a cash bar, light appetizers, and Penn State Football Letterman. Everyone is welcome! Register now ! Shop Our Merch: Happy Valley United’s exclusive LTFI merchandise was designed to support Penn State student-athletes through the playoffs. Proceeds from each purchase go directly to the athletes, helping them thrive both on and off the field. Shop Now ! Spread the Word: Help amplify the campaign by sharing it on social media using hashtags like #WeAre, #GoPSU, #HappyValleyUnited, and #CFPBound. Your posts can help inspire others to get involved and show their support. The College Football Playoff game will take place on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Beaver Stadium, with a 12:00 PM ET kickoff. Together, with the help of Happy Valley United and Nittany Nation, we can create an unforgettable atmosphere that will propel the team toward victory in this historic matchup. For more information on the fundraiser, donation options, and ways to get involved, visit our campaign page or contact us at info@happyvalleyunited.com. About Happy Valley United: Happy Valley United (HVU) is the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective dedicated to supporting all 31 Penn State athletic teams and over 830 student-athletes. Through HVU, fans, alumni, and supporters contribute to providing Penn State student-athletes with opportunities to build their personal brands while ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed. Through a combination of fundraising initiatives, partnerships, and events, Happy Valley United works to elevate the Nittany Lions’ success while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of athletes. You can get involved by making a one-time donation, joining as a member, or exploring corporate sponsorships. HVU is powered by Blueprint Sports. To learn more about NIL opportunities with Penn State student-athletes, visit happyvalleyunited.com and follow @happyvalleyutd on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
Raleigh, NC (December 4, 2024) – One Pack NIL, the NIL Collective for NC State student-athletes, today announced the launch of the Pack Pledge campaign, an exciting new way for Wolfpack fans to show their support for NC State men’s and women’s basketball student-athletes. The initiative allows fans to pledge financial contributions to One Pack NIL for every win, assist, and steal made by the men’s and women’s teams throughout the season. The Pack Pledge allows Wolfpack supporters to directly contribute to NC State Basketball student-athletes' Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities while celebrating the teams’ performances on the court. Whether it’s cheering for a big win, a game-changing assist, or a crucial steal, fans can make a tangible impact on the players' lives by pledging a set amount for each statistical category. “The Pack Pledge is a way for Wolfpack fans to actively engage with and support our basketball student-athletes in a meaningful way,” said Chris Vurnakes, Executive Director of One Pack NIL. “Our basketball programs have made incredible strides on the court, propelling both our men’s and women’s teams to the Final Four last year. We wanted to build on that and create an impactful partnership between our teams and the fans who make Wolfpack basketball truly special. Every pledge helps ensure that our athletes can continue to thrive both on the court and in their academic and athletic pursuits.” Fans can sign up for the Pack Pledge HERE and pledge any amount for every win, assist, and steal recorded by either the men’s or women’s basketball teams. For example, fans could pledge $1 per win, $0.50 per assist, and $0.25 per steal. With each milestone achieved during the season, fans will be notified of their contribution and the impact they are making on the student-athletes’ NIL earnings. The funds raised through the Pack Pledge campaign will go directly to supporting the NC State men’s and women’s basketball players, helping to create more opportunities for them to engage with fans, create content, and receive compensation for their NIL activities. For more information on the Pack Pledge and One Pack NIL visit onepacknil.com, email the collective at info@onepacknil.com, or follow the collective at @OnePackNIL on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Linkedin. ABOUT ONE PACK NIL One Pack NIL is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting NC State student-athletes. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support One Pack NIL are pledging to maximize opportunities for Wolfpack student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and one-time contributions. One Pack NIL is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Wolfpack student-athletes, visit https://onepacknil.com or follow @OnePackNIL on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Linkedin, or email info@onepacknil.com. Media Contact: Chris Vurnakes Executive Director One Pack NIL Collective chris@onepacknil.com
Boulder, CO (November 25, 2024) – 5430 Alliance, the official NIL Collective for CU Athletics, has teamed up with Crocs to release a limited-edition collection of custom black and gold Crocs. This exclusive footwear is designed for Buffs fans, offering a stylish way to show their school spirit while supporting student-athletes through 5430 Alliance's NIL initiatives. For a limited time, 15% of all proceeds from the sale of these custom Crocs will directly benefit 5430 Alliance, helping to expand and enhance NIL opportunities for student-athletes at CU. “We’re thrilled to be able to collaborate with Crocs on this unique offering,” said Natalie Sharp, Executive Director of 5430 Alliance. “This initiative supports our mission to empower CU student-athletes in the dynamic NIL landscape, creates innovative opportunities for athletes to connect with top brands, and offers Buffs fans a tangible way to engage with NIL and directly support our student-athletes." Ordering Details: Limited-Time Pre-Order: The custom black and gold Crocs will be available for a limited period, with pre-orders open for 15 days only. Fans must place their orders by November 30th to secure their pair. Support CU Athletics: A portion of the proceeds from every sale will go directly to 5430 Alliance, helping to enhance NIL opportunities for CU Boulder’s student-athletes. The campaign is spotlighted by three Buffs Football student-athletes—Dallan Hayden, Drelon Miller, and Nikhai Hill-Green—who are featured in promotional content showcasing the custom Crocs. Each athlete received a pair of the exclusive Crocs as part of the collaboration. Fans are encouraged to act quickly, as quantities are limited. The custom Crocs can be purchased via the campaign storefront at https://storefronts.crocs.com/5430AllianceFB/shop/product-detail/1002096. Follow 5430 Alliance and participating athletes on social media for behind-the-scenes content and exclusive updates. This collaboration with Crocs is the latest in a series of innovative initiatives by 5430 Alliance to build meaningful NIL opportunities for CU Boulder student-athletes, making a lasting impact on their collegiate experience and future success. For more information about the campaign or 5430 Alliance, please visit www.5430alliance.com or contact Natalie Sharp at natalie@5430alliance.com. ABOUT 5430 ALLIANCE 5430 Alliance is the premiere Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 350-plus student-athletes at the University of Colorado. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support 5430 Alliance are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. 5430 Alliance is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Buffs student-athletes, visit http://5430alliance.com/or follow @5430Alliance on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Linkedin, or email info@5430alliance.com. Media Contact: Natalie Sharp Executive Director, 5430 Alliance natalie@5430alliance.com
Baltimore, Md. (Nov. 25, 2024) - SECU, Maryland’s largest state-chartered credit union, is pleased to announce its official partnership with the One Maryland Collective, the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective that serves student-athletes at the University of Maryland. NIL opportunities allow student-athletes to engage with charitable causes and participate in business engagements, building their brands while making a positive impact, and representing their school without the concern of additional expenses. “It is an honor and a joy to support University of Maryland student-athletes by way of the One Maryland Collective. As we’ve engaged with student-athletes from all of the teams representing Maryland athletics, it’s clear that these young adults are eager to get involved in their communities and use their platforms to inspire others to do the same,” said Amy Basta, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer at SECU. “Together, we have hosted workshops and financial wellness events on campus in partnership with student-athletes, which has made our partnerships all the more impactful and meaningful. Now more than ever, young adults need the financial support, tools and resources to succeed – whether they continue to pursue sports professionally or move to a career in the traditional workforce.” As such, SECU and the Collective have rolled out additional options for new NIL student-athletes to receive loan benefits for auto loans through the credit union. NIL athletes collecting paychecks can apply for an auto loan with SECU, and make payments directly from the funds received through the Collective. This option is available to student-athletes purchasing a new or used vehicle and refinancing opportunities for those with an existing loan provider, allowing them to build credit at a young age to support their future financial success. SECU member advisors and financial planners are available to assist with one-on-one counseling and support to help ensure student-athletes make smart financial decisions and build credit for their future. SECU’s partnership with the Collective expands the opportunity for future and ongoing collaborations among the credit union, its nonprofit the SECU MD Foundation, and student-athletes. This fall, University of Maryland student-athletes from the Division I football team attended SECU MD Foundation’s annual golf tournament, playing cornhole and networking with guests to help raise funds for the Foundation’s scholarship program. Student-athletes also collaborated with SECU leadership and staff throughout the credit union’s annual Kindness Campaign. Now in its fifth year, SECU aims to inspire half a million acts of kindness statewide each October– and this year, One Maryland Collective student-athletes played a pivotal role in SECU’s annual Kindness Day. Student-athletes from Men’s Lacrosse, Men’s Football and Women’s Gymnastics joined SECU staff and volunteers at the Terp Farm and Community Learning Garden, harvesting sweet potatoes and produce to be used in on-campus dining, providing healthy food choices and fresh produce to those on campus and combat food insecurity. “We are incredibly excited to partner with SECU to expand opportunities for our student-athletes through this NIL partnership,” said Chris Weiner, Executive Director of One Maryland Collective. “With SECU’s support, we can continue creating meaningful pathways that help student-athletes develop as leaders, connect with the community, and hone life skills that will benefit them beyond the field. This collaboration is about equipping student-athletes to thrive in every facet of their lives. Together, we’re committed to empowering these young men and women to make a lasting impact, both here in Maryland and in their future pursuits.” SECU’s support of the Collective marks the latest venture in SECU and the University of Maryland’s partnership, which began in 2022 when the credit union secured a 10-year partnership with the university’s athletics department. The agreement included naming rights to the football stadium, SECU Stadium, as well as a sizeable gift to support financial literacy programs on campus and the construction of the Barry P. Gossett Basketball Performance Center. In August 2024, SECU also launched its Terps Card – the official credit card of the Maryland Terrapins. To learn more about SECU and its commitment to financial wellness for students, members, and Marylanders in every community, visit secumd.org. About SECU (State Employees’ Credit Union of Maryland) SECU ("see-Q"), Maryland’s largest state-chartered credit union, serves over 250,000 members via 21 Financial Centers across the state, including, 18 Financial Centers, 3 Digital Centers, and a Virtual Financial Center. As a member-owned, not-for-profit organization, SECU puts its members first. Membership is open to all of Maryland, with over 1,900 ways to join, you may be eligible through a family member, work, the college you attended, state employment, an organization you are affiliated with, or simply through a one-time donation to SECU’s partner, the SECU MD Foundation. Headquartered in Linthicum, Md., SECU offers convenient access to over 50,000 free ATMs through the CO-OP network, as well as access to expert financial planners. With more than $5 billion in assets, SECU ranks among the top 60 credit unions nationwide based on total assets in the U.S. Insured by NCUA. For more information, visit www.secumd.org or follow SECU on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok. About One Maryland Collective One Maryland Collective is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for University of Maryland student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to One Maryland Collective, are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. One Maryland Collective is powered by industry-leader Blueprint Sports. For more information visit onemaryland.com and follow @OneMarylandNIL on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn. ###
CHESTNUT HILL, MA (FRI, NOV 22, 2024) – Through the generosity and commitment of its Board of Directors and a notable partner, Friends of the Heights is thrilled to announce an end-of-year giving campaign: Heights of Giving! The first $500,000 committed to Friends of the Heights by December 15th will be matched dollar-for-dollar. Once fully committed, this campaign could result in at least $1 million of total impact, expanding Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) opportunities available to Boston College student-athletes through the collective while also enhancing the student-athletes’ opportunities facilitated by the collective. This end-of-year giving campaign is backed in part by the collective’s Board members: Brian Tusa ‘94, Joe Popolo ’89, Sam Raia ’97, Danielle Molinaro ’10, and Scott Mutryn ’98. “We stand firmly behind our student-athletes as they pursue excellence on behalf of Boston College,” said Tusa. “We want the best for our students and teams, so we urge our alumni and fans to consider supporting this important initiative. We are at a critical juncture in college athletics and continued financial support is vital to remaining competitive in the ACC, especially with the signing period and football transfer portal closing in December.” Friends of the Heights allows Boston College student-athletes to support local community organizations as they make appearances and promote charitable causes in the ethos of men and women for others. In 2024 alone, Eagle student-athletes across 10 athletic programs partnered with 35 local non-profit organizations, resulting in more than 2,000 community service hours while further promoting charitable causes. In addition, our students can advance their branding through commercial partnerships as they pursue success in the classroom and through their sport. Donors who participate in Heights of Giving can make a tax-deductible contribution through Friends of the Heights’ partnership with the BPS Foundation, a national 501(c)(3) organization through December 15th. Donors may also contribute via check, stock transfer or wire transfer. To contribute, a donor can visit www.friendsoftheheights.com or email General Manager Tom Devitt ‘93 at tom@friendsoftheheights.com "I have seen these gifted students perform elite work in the Boston area,” said Devitt. “Not only will alumni and fan involvement continue this impact on our community, but it will also help our teams compete in the best conferences in the country." About Friends of the Heights Friends of the Heights is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for Boston College student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Friends of the Heights are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Friends of the Heights is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information visit friendsoftheheights.com and follow @friendsoftheheights on Facebook and Instagram and @HeightsFriends on Twitter. # # # Contact – Friends of the Heights Tom Devitt General Manager Tom@friendsoftheheights.com
Boulder, CO (November 21, 2024) – 5430 Alliance , the official NIL Collective for CU Athletics, has launched the Play It Forward pledge campaign, giving Buff fans a new way to support CU basketball and football student-athletes. Fans can pledge financial contributions for wins, assists, sacks, or touchdowns for the remainder of their season. Play It Forward allows Buff supporters to directly contribute to CU Football and Basketball student-athletes' Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities while celebrating the teams’ performances on the court and field. Whether it’s cheering for a big win, a game-changing assist, a Top 10 touchdown, or a crucial sack, fans can make an impact by pledging a set amount for each statistical category. “We’re excited to launch the Play It Forward pledge campaign, a unique opportunity for Buff fans to make a direct impact on the lives of CU student-athletes,” said Natalie Sharp, Executive Director of 5430 Alliance. “This initiative is all about celebrating the incredible performances of our basketball and football teams while helping to expand NIL opportunities for our athletes. Every win, assist, touchdown, and sack is a chance for our supporters to contribute to the growth of CU’s NIL program and create lasting opportunities for the student-athletes who give it their all every season. Play It Forward strengthens our community and ensures these athletes can continue to thrive both on the field and in their personal endeavors.” Fans can sign up for 5430 Alliance’s Play It Forward HERE and pledge any amount for every win, assist, touchdown, and sack recorded this season. With each milestone achieved during the season, fans will be notified of their contribution and the impact they are making on the student-athletes’ NIL earnings. The funds raised through the Play It Forward campaign will go directly to supporting the Buffs Basketball and Football players, helping to create more opportunities for them to engage with fans, create content, and receive compensation for their NIL activities. For more information about the campaign or 5430 Alliance, please visit www.5430alliance.com or contact us at natalie@5430alliance.com. ABOUT 5430 ALLIANCE 5430 Alliance is the premiere Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 350-plus student-athletes at the University of Colorado. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support 5430 Alliance are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. 5430 Alliance is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Buffs student-athletes, visit http://5430alliance.com/or follow @5430Alliance on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Linkedin, or email info@5430alliance.com. Media Contact: Natalie Sharp Executive Director, 5430 Alliance natalie@5430alliance.com
Chicago, IL & Las Vegas– November 12, 2024 –rEvolution, the global leader in sports marketing, and Blueprint Sports (BPSE), the industry leader of full-service Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) solutions, have formed a strategic partnership to expand NIL opportunities in the fast-evolving college athletics landscape. This collaboration combines the strengths of each company to offer brands, academic institutions, and student-athletes the most comprehensive NIL solution in the market. In 2024, Blueprint Sports raised and distributed over $50 million in NIL earnings for NCAA student-athletes across its 25+ collectives, marking a significant milestone in empowering college athletes nationwide. Supporting more than 25 universities, including 12 Power Five institutions, Blueprint has established itself as a leader in NIL solutions. With 23 years of leadership in sports marketing, rEvolution brings unparalleled expertise in brand partnerships and college sports. Together, this partnership enables rEvolution and Blueprint to offer a powerful, full-service NIL solution that supports compliance, maximizes opportunities, and ensures success for brands, institutions, and student-athletes alike. “We are in a critical inflection point for college athletics. We believe this collaboration will set a new standard for what is possible in the NIL era. Our collaboration with Blueprint Sports represents another step forward for rEvolution in the NIL space,” said Larry Mann, Executive Vice President and Partner, rEvolution. “rEvolution will drive meaningful opportunities for academic institutions and student-athletes through our work with global brands.” “College athletics’ presents unique opportunities for brands,” said Rob Sine, CEO of Blueprint Sports. “Our partnership with rEvolution combines significant resources, extensive industry knowledge, and proven track records of success in the NIL space to provide a forward-facing solution for an industry undergoing tremendous change. Together, we will increasingly maximize the positive impact of NIL in the college landscape.” Key initiatives include: Comprehensive NIL campaigns showcasing student-athletes and brand collaborations. Educational programs—both virtual and in-person—offering business-of-sports insights. Tailored engagement strategies fostering long-term, responsible relationships between brands and student-athletes that generate lasting commercial value. As the NIL market is projected to reach $1.67 billion by 2025, this partnership positions rEvolution and Blueprint Sports at the forefront of the evolving NIL space. About rEvolution rEvolution is a global, fully independent and integrated sports marketing agency comprised of industry experts in consulting and business strategy alongside marketing and creative specialists who produce award-winning sponsorship and marketing campaigns for brands and rights holders throughout the sports industry. Simply put, we connect brands with fans to drive business performance. For more information, visit revolutionworld.com. About Blueprint Sports Since 2021, Blueprint Sports Agency has facilitated over $70 million in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings for NCAA student-athletes. We navigate the complexities of modern college athletics with a comprehensive and user-friendly solution that sets the standard for NIL and sports marketing. Our expertise includes raising commercial NIL funds, managing complex contracts, streamlining payments, and providing data-driven budget solutions. Choosing Blueprint Sports means partnering with a leader dedicated to empowering student-athletes and transforming college sports. Our management team has over 75 years of experience across the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and professional sports, positioning us uniquely to support your NIL operations. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, and X. For media inquiries, please contact: rEvolution Shauna Wilson swilson@revolutionworld.com Blueprint Sports Marina Bain marina@blueprintsports.com
LAS VEGAS (November 11, 2024) – Blueprint Sports, a leading full-service provider of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collectives for athletic departments, is thrilled to announce that in 2024, it has successfully raised and distributed over $50 million to NCAA student-athletes through its network of more than 25 collectives nationwide. This remarkable achievement has more than tripled the NIL earnings earned by the student-athletes through the agency in 2023. It underscores Blueprint Sports' commitment to its partners, ability to manage NIL operations on a large scale, and expertise in navigating the evolving and complex NIL landscape. "We are thrilled to reach this important milestone," said Rob Sine, CEO of Blueprint Sports. "Our growth over the past year reflects our agency's dedication to providing both commercial and charitable opportunities for student-athletes and enhancing NIL operations for athletic departments nationwide. We are thankful for the support from our partners and understand that our journey is just beginning. There is still much work to be done in the evolving NIL landscape, and we look forward to expanding our agency's capabilities in collaboration with our partners.” This remarkable growth highlights the organization's expanding market share in a rapidly evolving industry. Blueprint Sports has brought NIL partnerships to student-athletes from both men's and women's sports, connecting influential athletes with valuable NIL opportunities and charitable initiatives within their local communities. About Blueprint Sports Agency Since 2021, Blueprint Sports Agency has facilitated over $70 million in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings for NCAA student-athletes. We navigate the complexities of modern college athletics with a comprehensive and user-friendly solution that sets the standard for NIL and sports marketing. Our expertise includes raising commercial NIL funds, managing complex contracts, streamlining payments, and providing data-driven budget solutions. Choosing Blueprint Sports means partnering with a leader dedicated to empowering student-athletes and transforming college sports. Our management team has over 75 years of experience across the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and professional sports, positioning us uniquely to support your NIL operations. Media Contacts Marina Bain - Sr Director of Communications – Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
Blueprint Sports Expands National Leadership Team, Promotes Gerry Dickey to Executive Vice President
Blueprint Sports is pleased to announce the promotion of Gerry Dickey from Vice President of Client Partnerships to Executive Vice President. With more than 25 years of experience in the sports industry, Gerry brings invaluable expertise and leadership to our executive team, positioning Blueprint Sports for a new era of growth. Prior to joining Blueprint Sports, he was Vice President of Events at REVELxp, where he successfully directed the Topgolf Live Stadium Tour, coordinating events at 24 NFL, MLB, and college stadiums. He also played a crucial role in launching Stadium Swing, REVEL’s immersive golf experience, which debuted at Fenway Park in November 2023. Gerry's background includes key roles at Learfield in the multi-media rights sector, where he served as Regional Vice President overseeing partnerships with 12 universities, as well as positions at Oklahoma State, Toledo, and Clemson. He also spent eight years as Assistant Athletic Director for Football Operations at Ole Miss and the University of Tennessee, highlighting his diverse expertise in event management, multi-media rights, and athletic administration. In his new role, Gerry will lead the national Blueprint Sports team, focusing on enhancing client relationships and shaping our strategic vision. His passion for the industry and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly drive our organization forward and improve our comprehensive NIL solutions. The entire Blueprint Sports team congratulates Gerry on this well-deserved promotion and looks forward to the exciting achievements ahead!
DENVER, CO, (October 22, 2024) — Laws Whiskey House, the Official Whiskey of The University of Colorado Athletics, expands its partnership with the release of its newest expression – the limited edition Black and Gold Select Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Made from just five select barrels handpicked by CU Athletics Director Rick George alongside the Laws team, this bourbon beautifully blends CU pride with Colorado craftsmanship. Laws Whiskey House is proud to support CU Athletics by donating a portion of proceeds from this release to the 5430 Alliance, benefiting CU student-athletes across all 11 collegiate sports. “The first whiskey we created in partnership with CU Athletics, Ralphie’s Reserve, was about introducing Laws to Buffs fans with a sweeter, more approachable whiskey that’s great in cocktails,” says Al Laws, founder and president of Laws Whiskey House. “Our new Black and Gold release takes it a step further—a limited-edition, 5-barrel blend designed for the discerning whiskey enthusiast. This bold, high-proof whiskey is crafted from barrels aged between four and nine years, offering a more complex and refined sipping experience.” Buffs fans loudly cheered on Ralphie’s Reserve Straight Bourbon benefiting Ralphie’s Live Mascot Program over the summer, and this expression is expected to garner similar enthusiasm. The Black and Gold Select Straight Bourbon is a full-bodied experience that combines standout flavors in every sip. Aged between 4 and 9 years, the aroma evokes cherry wood, vanilla bean, and golden raisin with a symphony of flavors like sweet honey and orange spice tea on the front, followed by rich, nutty almond butter and a hint of spice, giving a dry, balanced finish that whiskey lovers will appreciate. “It was such a pleasure to be a part of the selection process for the Black and Gold Select and I’m confident whiskey lovers will be thrilled with the result,” says Colorado Athletic Director Rick George. “CU fans will be able to enjoy a great whiskey while directly supporting our hard-working student-athletes.” Laws Black and Gold Select Straight Bourbon retails for $129.99 and is available at the Laws Whiskey House Tasting Room in Denver, online at lawswhiskeyhouse.com, and in select stores, including Hazel’s Beverage World in Boulder, the Official Beverage Store of CU Athletics. All CU Athletics sponsorship agreements are managed by athletic media rights holder Buffalo Sports Properties, the local, dedicated Learfield team powering college athletics. For media inquiries, please contact BON Communications at hello@boncomms.com. About Laws Whiskey House Founded in 2011, Laws Whiskey House makes intentionally bold and terroir-driven whiskeys from Colorado. The distillery’s grain-forward style whiskeys are made with the highest quality corn and heirloom wheat, barley, and rye grown by two Colorado family farms. Laws uses time-tested production techniques that showcase each individual grain's terroir resulting in singular and novel whiskeys. About Colorado Athletics The University of Colorado, located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in Boulder, began intercollegiate competition in the spring of 1890, and 134 years later the school sponsors 17 varsity programs on the NCAA Division I level. The school sponsors men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, football, men's and women's golf, women's lacrosse, men's and women's skiing, women's soccer, women's tennis, men's and women's indoor and outdoor track & field, and women's volleyball. Known as the Buffaloes since 1934, the school has won 30 national championships, over 200 conference championships and boasts more than 150 individual NCAA Champions. About Learfield Learfield is a diversified and influential media and technology company powering college athletics. Through its digital and physical platforms, Learfield owns and leverages a deep data set and relationships in the industry to drive revenue, growth, brand awareness, and fan engagement for brands, sports, and entertainment properties. With ties to over 1,200 collegiate institutions and over 12,000 local and national brand partners, Learfield's presence in college sports and live events delivers influence and maximizes reach to target audiences. With solutions for a 365-day, 24/7 fan experience, Learfield enables schools and brands to connect with fans through licensed merchandise, game ticketing, donor identification for athletic programs, exclusive custom content, innovative marketing initiatives, NIL solutions, and advanced digital platforms. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for the acclaimed Learfield Directors' Cup, supporting athletic departments across all divisions.
Boulder, CO (October 21, 2024) – 5430 Alliance , the official NIL Collective for CU Athletics, is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with Taco Bell. This collaboration aims to engage the local community while supporting University of Colorado athletes in their quest for excellence both on and off the field. As part of this unique partnership, Taco Bell will host a special event at participating locations on October 22, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Every customer visiting the drive-thru will receive a free Cantina Taco during this hour. CU Buffs Football athletes LaJohntay and Jaylen Wester will also attend as special guests at the Baseline Road location, bringing energy and fun to Buffs fans driving through. In addition, Taco Bell will donate $50 for each transaction made during this period to the Taco Bell Foundation, reinforcing its commitment to community engagement and educational initiatives. 5430 Alliance is excited to align with a brand as iconic and community-focused as Taco Bell. This partnership will directly benefit CU athletes as the 5430 Alliance continues its mission to empower student-athletes, retain top talent, and help CU compete at the highest levels of collegiate sports. "This collaboration with Taco Bell represents a significant step in our efforts to engage with our community and enhance support for our athletes," said Natalie Sharp, Executive Director of the 5430 Alliance. "We are grateful for Taco Bell's support and are proud to partner with a brand that shares our values of excellence and community impact." The funds generated through this initiative will not only support the Taco Bell Foundation but will also directly benefit the student-athletes at CU, helping to ensure they have the resources and opportunities necessary to excel in their collegiate sports careers. By fostering this partnership, we are cultivating a culture of support that extends beyond the field, creating lasting benefits for both our athletes and the Boulder community. For more information about the event or the 5430 Alliance, please visit www.5430alliance.com or contact us at natalie@5430alliance.com . About the 5430 Alliance: 5430 Alliance is the premiere Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 350-plus student-athletes at the University of Colorado. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support 5430 Alliance are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. 5430 Alliance is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Buffs student-athletes, visit http://5430alliance.com/ or follow @5430Alliance on Instagram , X , Facebook, and Linkedin , or email info@5430alliance.com . Contact – 5430 Alliance: Natalie Sharp Executive Director, 5430 Alliance Natalie@5430alliance.com
Boulder, CO (October 21, 2024) – 5430 Alliance , the official NIL Collective for CU Athletics, is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with Taco Bell. This collaboration aims to engage the local community while supporting University of Colorado athletes in their quest for excellence both on and off the field. As part of this unique partnership, Taco Bell will host a special event at participating locations on October 22, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Every customer visiting the drive-thru will receive a free Cantina Taco during this hour. CU Buffs Football athletes LaJohntay and Jaylen Wester will also attend as special guests at the Baseline Road location, bringing energy and fun to Buffs fans driving through. In addition, Taco Bell will donate $50 for each transaction made during this period to the Taco Bell Foundation, reinforcing its commitment to community engagement and educational initiatives. 5430 Alliance is excited to align with a brand as iconic and community-focused as Taco Bell. This partnership will directly benefit CU athletes as the 5430 Alliance continues its mission to empower student-athletes, retain top talent, and help CU compete at the highest levels of collegiate sports. "This collaboration with Taco Bell represents a significant step in our efforts to engage with our community and enhance support for our athletes," said Natalie Sharp, Executive Director of the 5430 Alliance. "We are grateful for Taco Bell's support and are proud to partner with a brand that shares our values of excellence and community impact." The funds generated through this initiative will not only support the Taco Bell Foundation but will also directly benefit the student-athletes at CU, helping to ensure they have the resources and opportunities necessary to excel in their collegiate sports careers. By fostering this partnership, we are cultivating a culture of support that extends beyond the field, creating lasting benefits for both our athletes and the Boulder community. For more information about the event or the 5430 Alliance, please visit www.5430alliance.com or contact us at natalie@5430alliance.com . About the 5430 Alliance: 5430 Alliance is the premiere Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 350-plus student-athletes at the University of Colorado. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support 5430 Alliance are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. 5430 Alliance is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Buffs student-athletes, visit http://5430alliance.com/ or follow @5430Alliance on Instagram , X , Facebook, and Linkedin , or email info@5430alliance.com . Contact – 5430 Alliance: Natalie Sharp Executive Director, 5430 Alliance Natalie@5430alliance.com
Fayetteville, AR (October 18, 2024) – Arkansas Edge, the official NIL collective of the Arkansas Razorbacks, has launched the Spare Change Round Up program, allowing fans to easily support Razorback student-athlete NIL opportunities by rounding up their everyday purchases – regardless of where they eat, shop, spend or live. Enrollees can link their debit cards, credit cards, or checking accounts to automatically contribute spare change from each transaction to NIL initiatives. “Fans have expressed a desire for a way to round up purchases to support NIL opportunities, and we’re excited to introduce the Spare Change Round Up program,” said Kyle May, Executive Director of Arkansas Edge. “This scalable and effortless approach allows fans to participate easily and choose how much they want to contribute without needing individual programs with each merchant and regardless of where they bank or live.” Enrolling is quick—fans can securely connect their card or bank accounts in just minutes. After enrollment, all purchases will be rounded up to the nearest dollar with spare change from each totaled weekly. If the total exceeds $10, that amount will be deducted from the enrollee’s selected payment account and sent to Arkansas Edge; if it’s less than $10, it rolls over to the next week. Fans can also choose to multiply their contributions by 2 to 5 times, set weekly limits, change accounts, and pause the program as needed. The Spare Change Round Up program is powered by SmartChange, an award-winning Arkansas-based fundraising platform, ensuring the program is secure, reliable, and user-friendly. “As an Arkansas-based company, we're thrilled to partner with Arkansas Edge to introduce the Spare Change Round Up for Razorback fans,” said Becky Pittman, Co-Founder of SmartChange. “Our platform is designed to meet the needs of fundraisers and their supporters, making it easy for fans to make a difference while rounding up their purchases to support NIL opportunities.” Emily Wineland, Co-Founder of SmartChange, added, “We believe everyone should have the chance to make a positive impact, regardless of the size of their contribution. The Spare Change Round Up program enables fans to support Razorback sports in a budget-friendly way while going about their daily lives.” In addition to supporting NIL opportunities, fans who enroll will enjoy exclusive benefits, including discounts on Arkansas Edge merchandise and with partners, invitations to member-only events and giveaways, and a quarterly newsletter. Also, those who enroll in the program before Noon (CT) on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, will have chances to win prizes like tickets for the Men’s Basketball exhibition game against Kansas on Friday, October 25, 2024, tickets to Big Red’s for the Football game against Ole Miss on Saturday, November 2, 2024, and other fun giveaways. To learn more about the Spare Change Round Up program and to enroll, click here. About Arkansas Edge Arkansas Edge is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 465-plus student-athletes at the University of Arkansas. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support Arkansas Edge are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. For more information about NIL partnerships with Razorback student-athletes, visit arkansasedgenil.com or follow @ArkansasEdgeNIL on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. About SmartChange SmartChange is an award-winning fundraising platform that boosts payments and engagement through a smart, easy-to-use interface built to meet the unique needs of nonprofits, community organizations and their supporters. Built by fundraisers, for fundraisers, SmartChange brings together secure, innovative financial technology with advanced marketing and analytics into one platform that empowers fundraisers to make the most of every donation while providing donors with a seamless and frictionless donor experience. To learn more about SmartChange, visit smartchange.app. Media Contact Marina Bain, Sr Director of Communications – Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
One Pack NIL and Savage Wolves are pleased to announce that we have partnered withInside Pack Sports (IPS), our official media partner, for an exciting and exclusive benefit to all current and future Collective members. Beginning TODAY, October 15 all Collective members will be given the opportunity to opt in to a complimentary Elite+ membership though Inside Pack Sports. To Kickoff this partnership, please join us for an exclusive Zoom call with Pack Men's Basketball star guard Michael O'Connell at 8:00 ET TONIGHT! The link will be posted on the Elite+ message board at IPS! In addition to tonight's call, beginning today Collective members will also have access to the Elite+ premium message board where we’ll share breaking information on our current teams, the transfer portal and exclusive recruiting tidbits. Confirm Your Account Information . Inside Pack Sports is the leader in daily coverage of the Wolfpack - from breaking news and insider information to analysis and game breakdowns that you won’t find anywhere else. We’re thrilled to partner with IPS to be able to add even more value to your current membership with One Pack NIL and Savage Wolves. Read the full Article Here
(Reno, NV & LAS VEGAS) October 11, 2024 – Friends of the Pack and Friends of UNILV , the official NIL collectives supporting the student-athletes of the University of Nevada, Reno, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, respectively, are excited to announce the launch of the "Silver State Showdown" membership drive, showcasing the fierce competition between the two universities both on and off the field. The Silver State Showdown seeks to competitively increase membership numbers by November 30, ahead of the Battle for Nevada football game between the University of Nevada and UNLV. This campaign reflects the collectives’ respective commitment and support of their student-athletes, as well as the deep rivalry between the Battle Born state’s flagship universities. In this new era of college athletics, the winners on the field for the years to come will likely reflect the amount of support given to its student-athletes in the form of NIL, encouraging the community to rally behind their university to produce better results for their favorite teams. The official NIL collectives at both universities will battle to become the collective with the largest new member increase by rallying their fanbase, leveraging team success, and offering various exciting incentives and deliverables to encourage membership. The rivalry campaign will extend through the spring concluding with a best two of three champions from fall, winter, and springs seasons. Nevada Wolf Pack Head Football Coach Jeff Choate emphasized the importance of fan engagement: “It's time for the Silver State Showdown and we need your support more now than ever. This challenge isn’t just about what’s going on, on the field. It’s about what Coach Ault called Nevadatude: that can-do spirit that will always lead the Wolf Pack to the top. By joining Friends of the Pack, you have an opportunity to make a huge impact on our student-athletes' experience and be a game changer for building a foundation of a strong program. Join Friends of the Pack today and help us beat the neighbors down south. Competing on and off the field is what this great rivalry is about, and we can’t wait to have your support. Go PACK!” UNLV Director of Athletics Erick Harper shared a similar call to action: “With the launch of the Friends of UNILV’s membership drive, Rebel fans have a tremendous opportunity to elevate their support for our student-athletes to new heights,” Harper said. “Our rivals to the north are rallying behind their own, but here at UNLV, the Rebel spirit stands unmatched. This campaign is about more than just competition. It’s about showing Rebel student-athletes that their fans are behind them every step of the way. I’m calling on every Rebel fan to get involved and show your support by joining Friends of UNILV today. Go Rebels!” Both collectives offer a range of membership options with exclusive benefits designed to provide unparalleled access and engagement opportunities with their respective athletes. Friends of the Pack memberships start at $10 a month, while Friends of UNILV memberships start at $25 a month. Members gain access to exclusive content, private events, and unique experiences leading up to the rivalry game and beyond. Those interested in joining the Silver State Showdown can visit friendsofthepack.com/silverstateshowdown for Nevada or friendsofunilv.com/silverstateshowdown for UNLV to learn more. ABOUT FRIENDS OF THE PACK Friends of the Pack is a fan-driven and alumni-led NIL collective supporting the University of Nevada, Reno. Committed to maximizing opportunities for student-athletes, Friends of the Pack helps attract top talent and provides exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. For more information, visit friendsofthepack.com and follow @FriendsofthePack on Facebook and X, and @friendsofthepackreno on Instagram. ABOUT FRIENDS OF UNILV Friends of UNILV is a fan-driven and alumni-led NIL collective supporting the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Focused on enhancing student-athlete experiences and opportunities, Friends of UNILV pledges to help attract top talent to field the best team possible while offering fans access to exclusive events and content. For more information, visit friendsofunilv.com and follow @FriendsofUNILV on Facebook, X, and Instagram. ## Media Contact: Macy Gardner Marketing & Communications Specialist macy@blueprintsports.com 405-880-5553
Washington, DC (Oct. 10, 2024) – Friends of George (FOG) Collective, the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) collective supporting The George Washington University student-athletes, is proud to announce the launch of its new brand and user-friendly website as the official NIL collective for GW Revolutionaries. This initiative aims to enhance the support and empowerment of GW student-athletes, while also providing an experiential membership program that offers exclusive benefits to supporters, fans, and alumni. With a fresh look and an updated online platform, FOG Collective’s rebrand and enhanced website reflect its ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive NIL opportunities for GW student-athletes. In the words of GW Men’s Basketball Head Coach, Chris Caputo: “The ever-changing landscape of college athletics has shown us just how important supporting NIL can be. I’m excited for the continued empowerment of our student-athletes and supporting FOG is the most direct way our Buff & Blue community can do just that.” Caputo has had one goal since coming to GW: “to deliver our student-athletes the best possible experience both on and off the court. Revitalizing our Friends of George Collective will continue to enhance our student-athletes experience through increased NIL opportunities.” The newly unveiled website, accessible at fogcollective.com, serves as a gateway for fans, supporters, and alumni to join their revolutionary membership program and get insights into the community supporting GW student-athletes. Supporters can join at one of two membership levels and gain access to exciting benefits such as: Quarterly Zoom calls with GW Athletics staff and guest appearances Tickets to a quarterly drawing of exclusive memorabilia Postgame autograph sessions with the team Echoing the importance of NIL engagement, Head Coach of GW Women’s Basketball, Caroline McCombs says: “I’m excited about the opportunities our young women will be afforded thanks to the tireless work of FOG Collective. We’ve seen the direct impact NIL can have on the student-athlete experience across the country and the importance of our alumni and GW community becoming engaged for our student-athletes. We are encouraged by the work that has already been done and look forward to continuing our partnership in the years to come.” The website also features updates on upcoming events, details for which will be unveiled throughout the 2024-2025 athletic calendar. For more information about FOG Collective and to become a member today, visit https://fogcollective.com or follow the collective on social media on Facebook, Instagram, and X. About FOG Collective: FOG Collective is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program for the George Washington University student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to FOG are pledging to maximize opportunities for GW student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Friends of George is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information visit fogcollective.com and follow @fogcollectivenil on Instagram and Facebook, and @fogcollective on X. ### Media Contact: Macy Gardner Marketing & Communications Specialist macy@blueprintsports.com (405) 880-5553
FAYETTEVILLE, AR (October 7th, 2024) – Arkansas Edge and the Arkansas Men’s Basketball program are excited to announce the “The Tip-Off Tour,” featuring events in Hot Springs at Bank OZK Arena on October 12 (Saturday at 4 PM) and in Pine Bluff at the Convention Center on October 13 (Sunday at 5 PM). These first-look exclusive events reflect head coach John Calipari’s commitment to engaging with fans and the community ahead of the 2024-2025 basketball season, and his debut as head coach of the Razorback’s men’s basketball team. “I’ve said since I arrived that it is a priority to go around this state and meet people,” said John Calipari, Arkansas Head Coach. “The Razorback Roadshow was a great experience, we had a summer camp in Russellville and now we are having the Tip-off Tour in Hot Springs and Pine Bluff. We want to continue doing these kinds of things to touch as many people as we can in this state. It is great for our players to experience different parts of Arkansas to learn the history and makeup of this great state. These trips additionally give fans who cannot travel to Fayetteville easily a better connection to our program. We know what the Razorbacks mean to the people of the state of Arkansas. It is our goal to do whatever we can to keep and earn their support.” Fans will have the opportunity to meet players and coaches, participate in Q&A sessions, and enjoy player introductions along with various interactive activities. This will be the first public showcase of the 2024-25 Razorbacks, highlighting Coach Calipari's preparations for the season, including skill drills and team concepts. “We can’t wait to welcome Coach Cal and the Razorbacks to Hot Springs and Bank OZK Arena,” said Steve Arrison, Visit Hot Springs CEO. “Everyone in Hot Springs hopes this will be the first of many visits to the Spa City. You can bet we’ll fill Bank OZK Arena to the rafters with dedicated Hog fans.” A portion of the proceeds from the Tip-Off Tour will benefit Arkansas Edge, the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting all Razorback student-athletes. This initiative aims to enhance NIL opportunities for these student-athletes while also supporting the venues and creating connections with Arkansas fans and communities in Pine Bluff and Hot Springs. “The Pine Bluff Convention Center is beyond thrilled to host an unforgettable night of Razorback basketball for the first time in over 30 years,” said Barbara Dunn, Pine Bluff Convention Center Executive Director. “I want to personally invite our local schools and businesses, our entire community, and surrounding areas to be a part of this exciting event. We are eager to provide a safe and family-friendly venue with top-of-the-line customer service for the event and hope you can be a part of it. I am beyond grateful for this partnership.” The Tip-off Tour will consist of meet-and-greet opportunities, questions and answers from select coaches and players, player introductions, and additional fan-oriented activities. These will be the first public looks of the 2024-25 Razorbacks and the events will show how Coach Calipari is preparing the Hogs for the season through individual drills and skill work as well as team concepts with five-on-five competition. There will be three pricing levels, and the purchase points will be the same at each venue. Proceeds will be shared with each venue and Arkansas Edge NIL to benefit Razorback student-athletes: • General Admission – $30 per seat. General admission to the event and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. • Meet & Greet – $75 per seat (for up to 200 fans). Each ticket will allow access to and interactions with the players and coaches before the event and a Coach Calipari autograph. Fans at this level will be allowed in the facilities early and will have selected rows reserved for them close to the team benches. • Premium – $1,000 per seat (8 seats available). Premium buyers will sit on the Razorback bench with players and coaches during the event, have a picture taken with team members, get player autographs, and meet with Coach Calipari to get a photo and autograph before the event. (NOTE: in accordance with NCAA regulations, students in grades 7-12 will not be able to participate in this option.) To Purchase Tickets: Hot Springs Event (sold Online only): Purchase Online or call (501) 321-2277 for assistance. Pine Bluff Event (sold Online only): Purchase Online or call (870) 536-7600 for assistance. Doors at the event in Hot Springs (Oct. 12) will open at: 2:30 pm for Premium patrons. 2:30 for Meet and Greet patrons. 2:45 pm for all with tickets. Doors at the Pine Bluff (Oct. 13) event will open at: 2:30 pm for Premium patrons. 2:45 for Meet and Greet patrons. 3 pm for all with tickets. Parking will be free at both locations. In both cities, the Arkansas men’s basketball team will participate in a Samaritan’s Feet community service project and give out 3,000 pairs of shoes. For more information on these events and Arkansas Edge, visit https://arkansasedgenil.com/pages/events or follow @arkansasedgenil on Facebook, Instagram and X. For more information on Arkansas Men’s Basketball, follow @RazorbackMBB on X. About Arkansas Edge Arkansas Edge is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 465-plus student-athletes at the University of Arkansas. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support Arkansas Edge are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. For more information about NIL partnerships with Razorback student-athletes, visit arkansasedgenil.com or follow @ArkansasEdgeNIL on Facebook, Instagram and X. Media Contact: Marina Bain – Sr Director of Communications, Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
Tucson, AZ – (September 27, 2024) – Desert Takeover, the premier NIL collective supporting Arizona Wildcat Football student-athletes, is thrilled to unveil its revamped membership program and unlock exclusive benefits for new members starting today. Designed to enhance fan engagement and provide exciting new opportunities for fans to connect with and support their favorite student-athletes, the new program features a host of exclusive incentives for members. Exciting Membership Launch Incentives: Private Tour with Noah Fifita: The first 15 members to sign up at the $250/month level will enjoy an exclusive private tour with Noah Fifita, the starting quarterback for the Arizona Wildcats football team. This unique opportunity allows fans to connect with one of the team’s standout players in an intimate setting, and get exclusive access to Arizona Football facilities. Closed Practice Access and Meet & Greet: The first 100 individuals to join at the $100/month level will receive special access to a closed practice in November, followed by a meet-and-greet with Arizona Football student-athletes. This rare chance allows fans to witness the team in action, engage directly with their favorite players and coaches, and get a peek behind the Wildcat Football curtain. Merchandise Discount: All members will receive a 10% discount on Desert Takeover merchandise, including the newly launched CU vs. UA design, available today. This offer is perfect for fans looking to show their Wildcat pride while supporting student-athletes. “Desert Takeover is dedicated to creating meaningful connections between our student-athletes and the incredible Wildcat community,” said Ray Wells, Executive Director of Desert Takeover. “Our revamped membership program is designed to offer fans exclusive experiences that celebrate their commitment to Arizona athletics while supporting the growth of our student-athletes, and celebrating the current and future success of Wildcat Football.” Join Today: Fans can sign up for the new membership program on the Desert Takeover website. With exclusive perks and the chance to engage with Wildcat athletes, now is the perfect time to become a member of this dynamic community and help Arizona Football continue to pursue excellence and foster championship-level talent. About Desert Takeover Desert Takeover is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for University of Arizona football student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Desert Takeover are pledging to maximize opportunities for football student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters and members gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Desert Takeover is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information visit deserttakeover.com and follow @DesertTakevoer on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. # # # Media Contacts: Marina Bain, Sr Director of Communications at Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
Tucson, AZ – (September 27, 2024) – Desert Takeover, the premier NIL collective supporting Arizona Wildcat Football student-athletes, is thrilled to unveil its revamped membership program and unlock exclusive benefits for new members starting today. Designed to enhance fan engagement and provide exciting new opportunities for fans to connect with and support their favorite student-athletes, the new program features a host of exclusive incentives for members. Exciting Membership Launch Incentives: Private Tour with Noah Fifita: The first 15 members to sign up at the $250/month level will enjoy an exclusive private tour with Noah Fifita, the starting quarterback for the Arizona Wildcats football team. This unique opportunity allows fans to connect with one of the team’s standout players in an intimate setting, and get exclusive access to Arizona Football facilities. Closed Practice Access and Meet & Greet: The first 100 individuals to join at the $100/month level will receive special access to a closed practice in November, followed by a meet-and-greet with Arizona Football student-athletes. This rare chance allows fans to witness the team in action, engage directly with their favorite players and coaches, and get a peek behind the Wildcat Football curtain. Merchandise Discount: All members will receive a 10% discount on Desert Takeover merchandise, including the newly launched CU vs. UA design, available today. This offer is perfect for fans looking to show their Wildcat pride while supporting student-athletes. “Desert Takeover is dedicated to creating meaningful connections between our student-athletes and the incredible Wildcat community,” said Ray Wells, Executive Director of Desert Takeover. “Our revamped membership program is designed to offer fans exclusive experiences that celebrate their commitment to Arizona athletics while supporting the growth of our student-athletes, and celebrating the current and future success of Wildcat Football.” Join Today: Fans can sign up for the new membership program on the Desert Takeover website. With exclusive perks and the chance to engage with Wildcat athletes, now is the perfect time to become a member of this dynamic community and help Arizona Football continue to pursue excellence and foster championship-level talent. About Desert Takeover Desert Takeover is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for University of Arizona football student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Desert Takeover are pledging to maximize opportunities for football student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters and members gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Desert Takeover is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information visit deserttakeover.com and follow @DesertTakevoer on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. # # # Media Contacts: Marina Bain, Sr Director of Communications at Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
Fayetteville, AR – September 24, 2024 – Country music stars Justin Moore and Randy Houser are set to light up the Arkansas Music Pavilion (AMP) on October 3rd, 2023, with a special concert benefiting Arkansas Edge . Fans can look forward to an unforgettable evening of amazing music, all while supporting a worthy cause. Using the promo code "EDGE," attendees can save $10 on their tickets, with a portion of the proceeds going directly to Arkansas Edge, an organization dedicated to empowering youth and enhancing educational opportunities in the community. “We're honored to be able to partner with Justin Moore for this event,” said Kyle May, Executive Director at Arkansas Edge. “Not only will fans enjoy an amazing concert, but they will also be contributing to a vital mission that supports our student-athletes and surrounding community. A Razorback fan through and through, Justin’s support means the world to us and we’re grateful to take part in what’s set to be a memorable evening.” Join Justin Moore for an unforgettable night of country music and community spirit. Tickets are available now—don’t miss out! Date: October 3, 2023 Venue: Arkansas Music Pavilion (AMP) Promo Code: EDGE for $10 OFF For ticket purchases and more information, visit https://amptickets.com/performance/justin-moore-randy-houser-2024. For more information about ways to support the collective, email Arkansas Edge at info@arkansasedgenil.com or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. About Arkansas Edge Arkansas Edge is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 465-plus student-athletes at the University of Arkansas. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support Arkansas Edge are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. For more information about NIL partnerships with Razorback student-athletes, visit arkansasedgenil.com or follow @ArkansasEdgeNIL on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
LAWRENCE, KS – (September 25, 2024) – Mass St. Collective , the official NIL partner of KU Athletics dedicated to empowering all Jayhawk student-athletes, is excited to announce a series of new community partnerships designed to benefit both student-athletes and their supporters. These collaborations will provide exclusive discounts and offers from local businesses, strengthening the bond between our community, Mass St. members and supporters, and the talented athletes representing the University of Kansas. Through these partnerships, members of Mass St. Collective can enjoy a variety of enticing discounts, including: GameDay Men’s Health: Hangover Relief - 30-minute IV infusion drip for only $69. Enjoy 20% off TRT Membership for one year plus a free vitamin B12 shot. True Barre: 10% off membership or class packages. 23rd St. Brewery (host of the KU baseball coach talk show): Buy One, Get One (BOGO) on flatbread pizza. Johnny’s (host of KU football and basketball coach talk show): $5 off any large pizza. Sunny Day Event Company: 10% off Eileen's Cookies: BOGO on 4-inch cookies, redeemable twice per member. Jock's Nitch Apparel: 25% off KU Adidas gear year-round. “We are excited to unveil these valuable community partnerships, which will significantly enhance the Mass St. NIL membership experience,” said Keon Stowers, Executive Director of Mass St. Collective. “Our members are the backbone of our success, as well as that of our student-athletes. We take great pride in offering these exclusive benefits that not only provide value but also deepen the connections within our community.” Members can access these discounts by visiting the respective businesses and showing proof of membership by logging in to their membership portal and showing their digital membership card, or through the Mass St. Collective Community Partnership page where further details and updates will be provided. For more information about Mass St. Collective or to join the collective as a member, visit https://massstnil.com or follow the collective on Twitter , Instagram and Facebook . ### ABOUT MASS ST. COLLECTIVE Founded in July of 2021 after the NCAA passed its NIL policy, Mass St. Collective was created to assist KU student-athletes in building their brand and creating partnerships designed to produce permissible activities for them to monetize from their Name, Image, and Likeness. Mass St. Collective, named after the famous Massachusetts Street that runs through downtown Lawrence, helps student-athletes make positive contributions to our local communities while receiving compensation and growing their respective brands. A proud partner of Kansas Athletics, Mass St. works to create opportunities and build partnerships for its nearly 500 student-athletes to leave a lasting impact for generations to come. For more information about Mass St. Collective, visit MassStNIL.com and follow them on Facebook , Instagram and X . MEDIA CONTACTS Marina Bain Blueprint Sports, Sr Director of Communications marina@blueprintsports.com
SAVAGE, Md. (September 11, 2024) – ZIPS Cleaners announced today that it has signed an agreement with One Maryland Collective, the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) arm serving student-athletes at the University of Maryland, to provide and promote a subscription Wash N Fold laundry service for students, branded as “Terrapin Wash.” As part of the agreement, ZIPS of College Park will provide free pickup and delivery twice a week to four different University of Maryland campus locations. Students will also be able to add dry cleaning and comforter cleaning to the semester-based subscription services. A dedicated web page providing details and a link to the enrollment app was created specifically for the program—www.zipscleaners.com/terrapinwash. As part of the agreement, One Maryland Collective will receive revenues based on the subscription sales, which in turn will support University of Maryland student-athletes. The initiative empowers student athletes to thrive both on and off the field and engage more actively in their communities. “ZIPS Cleaners recognizes students’ needs to keep their clothes looking, feeling and smelling fresh as they juggle their classes, studies, and extracurricular activities,” said Mary Ann Donaghy, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer at ZIPS Franchising LLC. “The Terrapin Wash program gives students back a little time to focus on school, while supporting student athletes. We are proud to be part of such an exciting partnership.” “Partnering with ZIPS Cleaners to launch the Terrapin Wash service is an exciting step forward for One Maryland Collective,” added Chris Weiner, Executive Director at One Maryland Collective. “This collaboration brings an invaluable convenience to our students by taking the hassle out of laundry, while also making meaningful contributions to our student-athletes’ growth and development. We’re grateful to ZIPS for recognizing the importance of this service and for their commitment to enhancing the Terrapin student experience and contributing to the success of our athletes. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership will have on our campus community.” This pilot program launches with the start of the first semester of the university’s 2024-2025 academic year and will be promoted through campus-wide events, social media posts by student-athletes, on-campus signage, email communications to students and parents, and groups such as Career Services and the Panhellenic Council. Negotiations to expand the program to other universities are in progress. “With 70 ZIPS locations, a high concentration of which are in the Baltimore-Washington region, there is ample opportunity for us to bring this convenience to a large number of college students,” said Donaghy. “We look forward to serving the Terrapin community this fall and hopefully other student communities in the near future as well.” About ZIPS Cleaners® ZIPS Cleaners® provides consumer and commercial garment care centered around low-cost, in-by-9-out-by-5 dry cleaning as well as Wash N Fold laundry, pressed laundry, alterations and cleaning of household items. ZIPS was launched in the early 2000s when eight of the Baltimore-Washington Metro Area’s premier dry cleaners banded together as a unified brand offering same-day service at a single low price. Today, there are 70 ZIPS locations throughout the United States, with more than 100 slated to open in the next several years. For more information, or to find the nearest ZIPS location, visit 321zips.com . Franchise opportunities with ZIPS are available in select markets throughout the United States. For more information, contact Director of Business Development Mike Waintraub at mwaintraub@321zips.com or (609) 468-7195, or visit https://321zips.com/own-a-zips/ . About One Maryland Collective One Maryland Collective is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for University of Maryland student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to One Maryland Collective are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. One Maryland Collective is powered by industry-leader Blueprint Sports . For more information visit onemaryland.com and follow @OneMarylandNIL on Facebook , Instagram , X and LinkedIn .
(LAWRENCE, KS) September 4, 2024 – Mass St. Collective , the NIL Collective for Jayhawk student-athletes and official partner of University of Kansas Athletics, announced today the kickoff of the “ Rock Chalk Rally ” campaign. This ambitious membership drive aims to rally 1,000 or more engaged members by 2025. The “ Rock Chalk Rally ” campaign seeks to harness the passionate support of Jayhawk fans to build a sustainable and impactful NIL ecosystem in Lawrence. By joining the movement, fans, supporters and sponsors will gain exclusive access and unique opportunities to connect with Jayhawk student-athletes. “The Rock Chalk Rally is more than just a membership drive,” said Keon Stowers, Executive Director of Mass St. NIL. “It’s a chance for every Jayhawk fan to play a vital role in shaping the future of KU Athletics By joining our collective, you’re not only supporting our athletes but also becoming part of a community dedicated to strengthening bonds through our shared passion for KU Athletics. Mass St. Collective’s exclusive benefits create new ways for fans to engage with our incredible student-athletes and make a significant impact to ensure that KU remains a leader in NIL across the nation.” Mass St. NIL Collective members enjoy an array of exclusive benefits, such as invitations to team practices and scrimmages, early (and occasionally complimentary) access to Mass St. NIL events, opportunities to meet players, and engaging ‘chalk talk’ sessions with coaches. We're also excited to introduce new, exclusive perks on the horizon, including the chance to win unique memorabilia like a signed football from Coach Leipold, sideline passes for KU’s game against TCU, a private tour of the newly renovated Anderson Family Complex, and much more. Furthermore, all support for KU student-athletes through NIL now qualifies for giving credit from Kansas Athletics Development, enhancing the impact of your contributions. “In this time of unprecedented change in collegiate athletics, we are thrilled to provide donors credit toward their lifetime giving and priority points when they support our student-athletes through NIL,” said Travis Goff, Director of Athletics at KU. “This change will help our long-time supporters leverage their generous support to reach lifetime giving thresholds and unlock meaningful stewardship experiences.” As part of the Rock Chalk Rally, the first 50 members to sign up this week will receive an autographed Jalon Daniels photo as part of their membership package. Mass St. Collective will also introduce special discounts with local business partners and additional benefits for all members. Current and new members will enjoy a 10% discount on Mass St. Collective merchandise and memorabilia as a token of appreciation. Fans and supporters are encouraged to join the Rock Chalk Rally and contribute to the growth of Jayhawk NIL opportunities by signing up at massstnil.com/rockchalkrally. For more information on the Rock Chalk Rally membership campaign, member rewards and discounts, or other ways to engage with Mass St. NIL, please email us at info@massstnil.com or visit massstnil.com . ABOUT MASS ST. COLLECTIVE AND BLUEPRINT SPORTS Founded in July of 2021 after the NCAA passed its NIL policy, Mass St. Collective was created to assist KU student-athletes in building their brand and creating partnerships designed to produce permissible activities for them to monetize from their Name, Image, and Likeness. Mass St. Collective, named after the famous Massachusetts Street that runs through downtown Lawrence, helps student-athletes make positive contributions to our local communities while receiving compensation and growing their respective brands. A proud partner of Kansas Athletics, Mass St. works to create opportunities and build partnerships for its nearly 500 student-athletes to leave a lasting impact for generations to come. For more information about Mass St. Collective, visit MassStNIL.com and follow them on Facebook , Instagram and X . MEDIA CONTACTS Keon Stowers, Executive Director of Mass St. NIL Collective keon@massstnil.com
(Raleigh, NC) August 27, 2024 – One Pack NIL , the NIL Collective for NC State student-athletes and proud sponsor of NC State Athletics, announced today the launch of the “Rise to 5” campaign to grow to 5,000 or more active members by 2025. The “Rise to 5” is a membership drive designed to capture the passion and dedication Wolfpack Fans have for NC State Athletics to establish a long-term and sustainable model for NIL in Raleigh. Membership options, as part of the “Rise to 5”, will continue to offer fans and sponsors unparalleled access and opportunities to engage with Wolfpack student-athletes. Recently, members of One Pack NIL Collective have enjoyed exclusive perks like invitations to team practices and scrimmages, early access to Meet the Pack Day, lunch with players and ‘chalk talk’ events with coaches. One Pack NIL has also recently announced the launch of Junior Savage Wolves , a new membership add-on option for kids 18 and younger providing exciting opportunities to meet, engage with, and learn from NC State student-athletes. “I’m so proud of the recent growth of our Collective,” said Chris Vurnakes, Executive Director of One Pack NIL Collective. “Since January our membership has grown over 500% and we recently surpassed 1,000 members. Now our eyes are on the goal of 5,000 by the Fall of 2025 as we prepare for a sustainable future of NIL at NC State.” In addition to creating more opportunities for fans to connect directly with their favorite NC State student-athletes, the collective will also be unveiling discounts with local business partners and other benefits for all One Pack members throughout the campaign. To reward current and future members of the collective, all One Pack members can receive 10% off One Pack merchandise and memorabilia. Fans and supporters can participate in the Rise to 5 membership campaign and help support the growth of Wolfpack NIL opportunities by becoming members at any level at onepacknil.com/riseto5. For more information on the Rise to 5 membership campaign, member rewards and discounts, or on additional ways to get involved with One Pack NIL, email the collective at info@onepacknil.com or visit onepacknil.com . ABOUT ONE PACK NIL One Pack NIL is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting NC State student-athletes. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support One Pack NIL are pledging to maximize opportunities for Wolfpack student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and one-time contributions. One Pack NIL is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports . For more information about NIL partnerships with Wolfpack student-athletes, visit https://onepacknil.com or follow @OnePackNIL on Instagram , X , Facebook , and Linkedin , or email info@onepacknil.com . Media Contact: Chris Vurnakes, Executive Director of One Pack NIL chris@onepacknil.com
Raleigh, NC (August 1, 2024) – One Pack NIL , the NIL Collective for NC State student-athletes and official partner of NC State Athletics, has announced the opening of registration for Meet the Pack Day 2024 . The free event offers fans an exciting opportunity to meet the talented players who make up the Wolfpack Football team, with exclusive chances for photos, autographs, and other activities. The collective also revealed the kickoff of the Junior Savage Wolves Kids Club, whose members will get premiere access to activities and special events at Meet the Pack Day 2024 and future events. “Meet the Pack Day is our largest fan-driven NIL event and a great celebration of the start of the season for Wolfpack fans of any age,” said Chris Vurnakes, Executive Director of One Pack NIL Collective. “Our primary goal is to provide a family-friendly and community-oriented Collective. As we continue to grow our fan membership options, we see a great opportunity for unique experiences and events for children and young adults as part Junior Savage Wolves.” Meet the Pack 2024 Event Details: What: Activities, autographs, photo ops, food, drinks, and more! Who: Wolfpack Football student-athletes and fans When: Saturday, August 17 from 6:30-8 pm (Collective members may enter at 6 pm) Where: Close-King Indoor Practice Facility The first 100 members and fans through the doors on August 17 will receive a complimentary Savage Wolves t-shirt, courtesy of Sir Walter Chevrolet. To register for Meet the Pack 2024, visit https://onepacknil.com/pages/2024-meet-the-pack-day . Along with Meet the Pack Day registration, One Pack NIL has launched a membership add-on for parents with kids under 18 years old in Junior Savage Wolves. The new option is designed to engage the youngest members of the Wolfpack community, providing exciting opportunities to meet, engage with, and learn from NC State student-athletes. During Meet the Pack Day 2024, Junior Savage Wolves will get early entry and the opportunity to take part in an Ice Cream Social with the NC State Football players, among other fun activities. Every youth member will receive a special gift upon signing up, enjoy a personalized birthday shoutout from a Wolfpack student-athlete each year, and gain exclusive access to One Pack's family-friendly events. “As a child growing up, there was nothing like having the opportunity to see my football heroes up close,” said Steve Williams, Membership Manager at One Pack NIL. “We’ve brought that idea to our Collective and made it even better by giving kids, not only the chance to see NC State’s football stars, but the opportunity to interact with them on a very personal level. Throwing a football with Grayson McCall or having ice cream with KC Concepcion are memories they’ll remember for a lifetime. We’re thrilled to be able to provide that as a part of our Junior Savage Wolves Program.” To sign up for the Junior Savage Wolves club or to learn more, visit onepacknil.com/juniorsavagewolves . Existing members can add Junior Savage Wolves under 18 to their current membership through the One Pack NIL membership portal . ABOUT ONE PACK NIL One Pack NIL is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting NC State student-athletes. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support One Pack NIL are pledging to maximize opportunities for Wolfpack student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and one-time contributions. One Pack NIL is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports . For more information about NIL partnerships with Wolfpack student-athletes, visit https://onepacknil.com or follow @OnePackNIL on Instagram , X , Facebook , and Linkedin , or email info@onepacknil.com . Media Contact: Chris Vurnakes, Executive Director of One Pack NIL chris@onepacknil.com
Boulder, CO (July 29, 2024) – 5430 Alliance , the official NIL collective supporting University of Colorado Boulder (CU) student-athletes, proudly announces the launch of its new campaign, “ Stampede to the Big 12 .” This vital initiative is designed to rally Buffs’ fans and the community in support of CU student-athletes as they embark on an exciting new chapter in the Big 12 Conference. With the Buffs gearing up for the 2024-2025 season, “Stampede to the Big 12” aims to raise $250K in crucial funds to enhance NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities for Colorado student-athletes. As CU enters the Big 12 and faces off against a fresh roster of rivals, the campaign seeks to ensure that the Buffs have the resources and support they need to excel both on and off the field. “I am thrilled to announce the launch of our 'Stampede to the Big 12' fundraising campaign,” said Natalie Sharp, Executive Director of 5430 Alliance. “This initiative is more than just a call to action; it is a rallying cry for our entire CU community to come together and support our athletes as they prepare to compete and dominate in a new conference. The funds raised will be crucial in bolstering our Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives, ensuring that our student-athletes have the resources and support they need to thrive in and outside their chosen sports.” By contributing to Stampede to the Big 12 campaign, fans and supporters will help provide the resources necessary for Buffs athletes to maximize their potential and succeed in their new conference. As a special incentive for donors of the campaign, 5430 Alliance will be giving away exclusive experiences and memorabilia, notably: Each donation of $50 or more will receive a free 5430 Alliance t-shirt. Each donation of $100 or more is entered to win one (1) autographed copy of the EA College Football 25 video game. Each donation of $1,000 or more is entered to win two (2) tickets to the Tyler Childers concert at Folsom Field (August 17, 2024). Each donation of $10,000 or more will receive an exclusive facilities tour AND will be entered to win one (1) autographed jersey from a prominent player at CU. The donor with the highest contribution will win two (2) pre-game field passes to a CU Football home game. Fans will also have the chance to own a piece of Folsom Field’s storied history. During the 2024 off-season, as part of CU's stadium upgrades, the iconic stadium letters were replaced, and now each letter is available for purchase. Priced at $1,990 each to commemorate the Buffs’ national championship of that year, these letters offer a unique way to remember a pivotal moment in CU’s history. For more information about “Stampede to the Big 12” or to make a donation, please visit 5430alliance.com/stampedetothebig12 or contact us at info@5430alliance.com to learn more about ways to get involved with the collective. ABOUT 5430 ALLIANCE 5430 Alliance is the premiere Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 350-plus student-athletes at the University of Colorado. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support 5430 Alliance are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. 5430 Alliance is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Buffs student-athletes, visit http://5430alliance.com/ or follow @5430Alliance on Instagram , X , Facebook, and Linkedin , or email info@5430alliance.com . Media Contact: Marina Bain, Sr Director of Communications – Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
LAS VEGAS (July 24, 2024) – Blueprint Sports (BPSE) the industry leader in full-service Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collectives, proudly announces Marcus Madlock as its new Vice President of Client Partnerships. With a distinguished career in the sports industry spanning over two decades, Madlock joins Blueprint Sports’ leadership team to spearhead growth and innovation across the company’s vast portfolio of NIL collectives. Madlock brings extensive experience from his roles in professional and collegiate sports with Learfield, the Dallas Wings, the Houston Dynamo, and many more. Throughout his career, his focuses have mainly been on revenue generation, business development, and enhancing sales culture. His appointment underscores Blueprint Sports’ commitment to building a leadership team with invaluable expertise in college and professional sports, and its grander mission of empowering student-athletes at the highest levels through comprehensive NIL solutions tailored to their unique needs. "Blueprint Sports' dedication to providing a robust and inclusive solution for developing NIL collectives that cater to the specific needs of student-athletes aligns perfectly with my passion for empowering and supporting them," said Madlock. "I am excited to join the BPS team, where our shared commitment to collegiate partners and pioneering initiatives will shape the future of this transformative landscape." In his new role, Madlock will collaborate closely with Blueprint Sports’ collectives, university athletic departments, and external partners to drive and improve NIL solutions for the University of Arkansas, the University of Kansas, the University of Colorado, and more. His strategic initiatives and leadership will support and guide programs across the United States, ensuring they thrive under the upcoming changes in the NIL landscape scheduled for 2025. "We are thrilled to welcome Marcus to our leadership team," said Rob Sine, CEO of Blueprint Sports. "His deep industry knowledge and proven leadership will be pivotal as we expand our national footprint and navigate the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics. Marcus’s relentless pursuit of excellence and profound commitment to the success of student-athletes will also be invaluable assets as we continue to establish the standard for NIL solutions across the United States.” For more information, visit blueprintsports.com , email info@blueprintsports.com, or follow them on Facebook , Instagram , and X . ### About Blueprint Sports Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPS) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite universities. BPS' national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Maryland, University of Washington, University of Colorado, Boston College, NC State University, University of Utah, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram and X . Media Contacts Marina Bain Senior Director of Communications, Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
CHICAGO (July 18, 2024) – Keepers of the Culture , the NIL Collective serving Loyola Chicago student-athletes, is hosting the inaugural Keepers of the Culture Classic on Sunday, August 4 at 3:00 pm inside Gentile Arena featuring former Rambler men’s basketball players along with the current 2024-25 roster. Packages, including VIP options, are now available at https://keepersoftheculturenil.com/event-tickets/ . All proceeds directly benefit the Keepers of the Culture collective. “Our program is all about culture and family, and the Keepers of the Culture Classic is a perfect way to celebrate these two things,” said Loyola head coach Drew Valentine. “I’m incredibly excited to welcome back some of the legends that have allowed our program to grow into what it is now and for our fans to get a glimpse of our current guys, especially the newcomers.” Former Ramblers scheduled to appear include members of the 2018 Final Four team Cameron Krutwig, Donte Ingram, Lucas Williamson, and Ben Richardson, along with Milton Doyle, Tate Hall, Braden Norris, Tom Welch, Ryan Schwieger, and Chris Knight. They will be joined by special guest and 2016 National Player of the Year, Denzel Valentine. The 2024-25 Ramblers feature key returners in Des Watson, Miles Rubin, Sheldon Edwards Jr., Jayden Dawson, and Jalen Quinn. The team also has four freshman and four transfers stepping foot on the court for the first time ever. About Keepers of the Culture Keepers of the Culture is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program for Loyola University Chicago student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Keepers of the Culture are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Keepers of the Culture is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports . For more information visit keepersoftheculturenil.com and follow @KOTCNIL on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram .
(Fayetteville, Ark.) July 15, 2024 – Arkansas Edge , the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective of the Arkansas Razorbacks, today announced the notable addition of two new members to its leadership team: Kyle May, who will serve as Arkansas Edge’s new Executive Director, and Alex Harper, new Director of Corporate Partnerships. As Executive Director, May will lead Arkansas Edge’s various NIL projects and initiatives, formalizing a strategic vision that will develop the collective’s membership and corporate partnership strategies, and leading the collective’s growing staff, external communications, and athletic department relationships. “When I moved to Arkansas, I discovered firsthand the fiery passion that all Razorback fans have for the University, teams, and student-athletes,” said May. “Very quickly, I was welcomed into this community and have been a proud Razorback fan for more than a decade. There has been so much incredible work done thus far with Arkansas Edge to help the Razorbacks recruit and retain top talent, and I am looking forward to hitting the ground running to continue that work. Through NIL, Razorback student-athletes have the opportunity to leverage their personal brands in a way that can be life-changing, not only for themselves, but also for the wider community, organizations, and businesses that they get to serve. I am thrilled to play a part in that change by leading the Arkansas Edge team.” A proud Northwest Arkansas resident for the past 11 years, May has spent the last decade fundraising at Walton Arts Center and Walmart AMP, most recently as the Director of Development for Walmart AMP. He oversaw all contributed revenue generation for the venue, in addition to all corporate partnerships and special event sponsorships for Walton Arts Center, responsible for raising over $5.5 million annually. May was also on the team that helped raise $18 million for the Expansion of the Walmart AMP in 2019 and 2020. Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, May was named to the International Association of Venue Manager’s 30 Under 30, graduated Summa Cum Laude from Louisiana Scholars’ College at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA, and was a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia fraternity. He currently lives in Fayetteville with his wife Rachel and their energetic five-year-old daughter. Also joining the Arkansas Edge team is Alex Harper, an Arkansas native who was born and raised in Little Rock and graduated from Arkansas Tech University. Harper studied journalism before pursuing a career in sales and business development. Prior to joining Arkansas Edge, he spent over five years as an Account Executive for Arkansas Business Publishing Group where he broke company sales records. While there, Harper worked to connect advertisers to business leaders across the state. “Corporate partnerships are a critical piece of a strong NIL collective,” said Harper. “I am both excited and humbled to help lead this charge for Arkansas Edge. Connecting with Razorback student-athletes is a great way for a business to build brand awareness. I am looking forward to exploring new ways for student-athletes to maximize their NIL potential.” In his new role, Harper will help businesses promote their brands by engaging with Razorback student-athletes through NIL opportunities. Alex is a lifelong Razorback fan and is looking forward to creating new revenue opportunities for Arkansas Edge. May and Harper both join the Arkansas Edge team that will lead and develop NIL opportunities for all 465-plus Razorback student-athletes. Chris Bauer, who led the collective’s first phase of growth and spearheaded a number of impactful initiatives and partnerships as Arkansas Edge’s first Executive Director, will be stepping away from his role for personal reasons and leaving behind an incredible legacy that the new leadership team will carry into the 2024-2025 season and beyond. Bauer will remain connected to the collective in a part-time advisory role. “It has been my honor and privilege to have served as the Executive Director for Arkansas Edge for my alma mater, working across athletic department administration and staff, coaches, donors, fans, business owners and leaders, and our student-athletes to build this program from the ground up to what it is today,” said Bauer. “As I pass the baton to Kyle to tend to a family matter, I do so with extreme confidence in Arkansas Edge’s future. Kyle’s background in leading fundraising and corporate sponsorship sales in this state will be a massive asset for continuing to build this program into one of the nation’s best NIL collectives. While I am taking a step back, I still believe in this mission, and I will continue to support Kyle, Alex, and the rest of our Arkansas Edge team and develop opportunities for this program as much as I can back in Central Arkansas.” About Arkansas Edge Arkansas Edge is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 465-plus student-athletes at the University of Arkansas. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support Arkansas Edge are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. Arkansas Edge is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Razorback student-athletes, visit arkansasedgenil.com or follow @ArkansasEdgeNIL on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. # # # Media Contacts: Marina Bain – Director of Communications marina@blueprintsports.com
(Fayetteville, Ark.) July 10, 2024 – Arkansas Edge , the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Collective of the Arkansas Razorbacks, is thrilled to announce an exclusive partnership with Sigma Supply , a BradyPLUS company, and the leading national specialized distributor of janitorial and sanitary, foodservice and industrial packaging supplies. "This partnership with Sigma Supply evolved from a conversation months ago with former Razorback Bumper Pool," explained Chris Bauer, Executive Director at Arkansas Edge. "As a family-run, Arkansas-based business with national reach and a strong affinity for the Razorbacks, Sigma Supply’s culture aligns perfectly with our mission to maximize student-athlete potential and opportunities. Sigma Supply's dedication to our sports programs and student-athletes, coupled with their world-class services and solutions for virtually every business sector, they are an ideal partner and sponsor. We couldn’t be more thrilled to work with them, and we hope other Arkansas-based companies will consider doing business with them in support of this partnership." This partnership underscores Sigma Supply’s dedication to investing in local communities and nurturing the next generation of leaders. Led by a family with deep roots in Arkansas, Sigma Supply’s leadership team is profoundly connected to Razorback culture. Through this partnership, the national janitorial, sanitation, food service and packaging supplies distributor will give a portion of sales back to Arkansas Edge that will help all Razorback sports programs remain competitive and attract and retain the best talent by offering additional NIL support. “We are beyond excited to join forces with Arkansas Edge and directly support Razorback student-athletes,” said Bryan Leslie, VP of Sales at Sigma Supply. “As a company deeply rooted in Arkansas, we understand the importance of supporting our community. Through this partnership, we aim to equip student-athletes with some of the tools and resources they need to succeed both on and off the field while delivering the best in jan-san, food service, and industrial packaging solutions for our clients. It’s a win-win; and for us, that’s what it’s all about.” This is not the first time Sigma Supply has stepped up to support Razorback student-athletes. In 2021, Sigma Supply was Bumper Pool’s first NIL student-athlete partnership. The now all-time leader in tackles for the University of Arkansas was so impacted by his support from Sigma Supply, it led to a partnership of his own that has extended beyond his years on the Razorback football team. Pool is now a sales account manager for Sigma Supply, the initiator of the company’s NIL Partner Program, and dedicated to supporting the next generation of Razorbacks as Sigma Supply once did for him. “At Sigma Supply, we believe there is value that leads to success when companies invest in collegiate student-athletes,” said Pool. “So, we set out to create value-driving programs and solutions to benefit the lives of student-athletes. Personally, I am paying it forward now working for the company that invested in me and my future as a student-athlete.” For more information about this partnership, visit arkansasedgenil.com/sigmasupply. Businesses that want to do business with Sigma Supply in support of Arkansas Edge should email them directly at ArkansasEdge@SigmaSupply.com . About Arkansas Edge Arkansas Edge is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 465-plus student-athletes at the University of Arkansas. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support Arkansas Edge are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. Arkansas Edge is powered by Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Razorback student-athletes, visit arkansasedgenil.com or follow @ArkansasEdgeNIL on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter . # # # Media Contacts: Marina Bain, Senior Director of Communications marina@blueprintsports.com
High Point, NC (July 1, 2024) - Friends of HPU , the premier NIL collective supporting High Point University student-athletes, today announced the launch of its brand-new website and membership program. This initiative aims to enhance engagement with and support for High Point Panthers student-athletes through an innovative and experiential membership program that offers exclusive benefits and an upgraded website and NIL platform. “The importance of name, image and likeness has evolved rapidly in collegiate athletics,” said Dan Hauser, High Point University Athletic Director. “Every donor that contributes to the Friends of HPU Collective is helping High Point University Athletics retain and recruit the most talented student-athletes. The collective is vital to our teams’ winning championships and advancing in the NCAA Tournament. We thank you for your support of our student-athletes and the Friends of HPU Collective!” The newly unveiled website, accessible at www.friendsofhpu.com, serves as a gateway for fans, supporters and alumni to join the Friends of HPU membership program and get insights into the community supporting High Point Panthers. Members will gain access to a range of exciting benefits, including: Exclusive Access: Members will enjoy exclusive access to HPU student-athletes and coaches throughout the 2024-2025 season and beyond. Unique Experiences: Members will receive invitations to members-only events featuring HPU's talented student-athletes. Merchandise: Members will receive exclusive Friends of HPU branded apparel and gear showcasing their support for High Point Panthers. The website also features updates on upcoming events, which will be unveiled ahead of the 2024-2025 athletic calendar. For more information about Friends of HPU and to become a member today, visit http://www.friendsofhpu.com/ or follow the collective on social media on Facebook , X , and Instagram . About Friends of HPU: Friends of HPU is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program for High Point University student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Friends of HPU are pledging to maximize opportunities for HPU student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, merchandise, and more. Friends of HPU is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports . For more information visit friendsofhpu.com and follow @friendsofhpu on Facebook , X , and Instagram .
The experienced sports industry executive leader will help drive the next phase of growth and innovation for Blueprint Sports NIL collectives. LAS VEGAS (June 24, 2024) – Blueprint Sports (BPS) the industry leader in full-service Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collectives, is excited to announce the hiring of Gerry Dickey as the company’s new Vice President of Client Partnerships - East. A seasoned sports industry executive with over 25 years of experience in various leadership roles, Dickey will help develop and enhance strategies that will maximize growth for collectives in the BPS national portfolio, with a focus on programs on the Eastern side of the country. "I’m thrilled to join the Blueprint Sports team,” said Dickey. “Working in the NIL industry presents a unique opportunity to shape the future of collegiate athletics, empowering student-athletes to maximize their potential and brand. It's an exciting time to be at the forefront of this transformative movement and I look forward to working with all our teams and partners.” In his new role, Dickey will collaborate with staff across collective organizations, university athletic departments, and third-party partners to expand the influence of NIL collectives at NC State, the University of Maryland, Boston College, Penn State, and beyond. He will also play a crucial role in guiding both collectives and athletic departments through the forthcoming transition to a new NIL model in 2025, crafting innovative strategies and sustainable solutions to propel each program confidently into the future of college athletics. “When we decided to expand our national team to meet the growing needs of our NIL collectives, I was impressed by the highly talented executives from across the industry who wanted to join Blueprint Sports,” said Rob Sine, CEO of Blueprint Sports. “As our partners know, we are dedicated to recruiting top-tier executives within the industry who will actively champion NIL opportunities for their student-athletes. Gerry swiftly emerged as a standout candidate due to his extensive track record with companies like Learfield and REVELxp, from guiding teams at the property level to overseeing regional initiatives and collaborating closely with athletic departments to realize their objectives." Most recently, Dickey served as the Vice President of Events for REVELxp, where he directed the Topgolf Live Stadium Tour and coordinated stops at 24 NFL, MLB, and college stadiums. He also created and launched “Stadium Swing,” REVEL’s immersive golf experience that debuted at Fenway Park in November 2023. Before his tenure at REVELxp, Gerry worked with Learfield in the multi-media rights industry, holding positions at Oklahoma State, Toledo, and Clemson. His last three years at Learfield were as a Regional Vice President, overseeing 12 university partnerships. Gerry’s extensive background also includes eight years as the Assistant Athletic Director for Football Operations at both Ole Miss and the University of Tennessee. His diverse experience in event management, multi-media rights, and athletic administration highlights his comprehensive expertise in the sports industry, and the value he brings to Blueprint Sports’ national team. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com , email info@blueprintsports.com, or follow them on Facebook , Instagram , and X . ### About Blueprint Sports Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPS) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite universities. BPS' national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Maryland, University of Washington, University of Colorado, Boston College, NC State University, University of Utah, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram and X . Media Contacts Marina Bain Senior Director of Communications, Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
The first-of-its-kind program will allow ticket holders to donate their tickets back to official NIL collective partners, to help fund NIL opportunities for their favorite teams and student-athletes. NEW YORK and LAS VEGAS (June 4, 2024) – On Location , a premium experiential travel, hospitality, and ticketing leader, and Blueprint Sports , the industry leader in full-service Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collectives, have partnered to launch a groundbreaking program that will allow NIL collectives to monetize the resale of game tickets for the first time. Through the new turnkey program leveraging dynamic ticketing software developed by Qcue, an On Location company, fans of university teams across the country will be able to donate game tickets for resale to their school’s collective to help fund NIL opportunities for student-athletes. "I am thrilled to be at the forefront of integrating NIL into the ticketing business without disrupting the relationship between athletics departments and their ticketing providers,” said Rob Sine, CEO of Blueprint Sports. “By partnering with On Location, we aim to bring innovative solutions that drive additional NIL revenue to our student-athletes. Their expertise in the ticketing business will help us seamlessly achieve this goal." "NIL collectives play a key role in supporting student-athletes and we are excited to utilize our best-in-class expertise and software to help them generate important new revenue through a seamless, first-of its-kind ticket resale program,” said On Location Executive Vice President of Ticketing, Greg Nortman. “This is the perfect solution for alumni and college football and basketball fans across the country who are unable to attend a game and want to help out their school’s collective and student-athletes.” The program will kick off with football and basketball, with plans to expand into more sports in the future. It will benefit the entire BPS portfolio across all 11 FBS Conferences, including Power 5 universities like Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Washington, NC State University, University of Colorado, University of Arizona, University of Maryland, Boston College, and more. On Location is the premier and official service provider to over 150 iconic rights holders, including the NCAA, Rose Bowl, NFL, International Olympic Committee (Paris 2024, Milano Cortina 2026, LA28), UFC and PGA of America, and delivers unique experiences such as the annual Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin, Ireland. For more information, visit Onlocationexp.com/ticketing . ### About On Location On Location is a premium experience provider, offering world-class hospitality, ticketing, curated guest experiences, live event production, and travel management across sports, entertainment, and fashion. From unrivaled access for corporate clients to guests looking for fully immersive experiences at marquee events, On Location is the premier and official service provider to over 150 iconic rights holders, such as the IOC (Paris 2024, Milano Cortina 2026, LA28), NFL, NCAA, UFC and PGA of America, and numerous musical artists and festivals. The company also owns and operates several unique and exclusive experiences, transforming the most dynamic live events into a lifetime of memories. On Location is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company. About Blueprint Sports Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPS) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite universities. BPS' national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Maryland, University of Washington, University of Colorado, Boston College, NC State University, University of Utah, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram and X . Media Contacts On Location – Jo Robertson | Joanna.robertson@img.com Blueprint Sports – Marina Bain | marina@blueprintsports.com
Powered by Blueprint Sports, the new collective supporting Buffalo Bulls student-athletes introduces a new website, fan membership, and other expanded offerings. BUFFALO, NY (April 25, 2024) – Blueprint Sports (BPS), the industry leader in full-service name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives, proudly announced today the launch of Nickel City Collective , an NIL Collective supporting all University at Buffalo student-athletes. The launch of the collective comes with a new website and membership program where Buffalo Bulls fans, supporters and alums can receive exclusive benefits while supporting NIL opportunities for Buffalo student-athletes. Starting at only $10 a month, community supporters can become members of the collective and receive exclusive merchandise, content, and access to events including meet-and-greets with student-athletes, watch parties, and more. “The launch of the Nickel City Collective is another step forward to ensure that our student-athletes are taking advantage of NIL opportunities. This will allow UB to be very competitive in this space,” said Mark Alnutt, University at Buffalo Vice President and Director of Athletics. “Giving our great Western New York community and our passionate fanbase an opportunity to directly support their favorite Bulls and UB teams is going to have an enormous impact on our student-athletes while making a difference in our community moving forward.” Launched just prior to the Buffalo Bulls Spring Game, Nickel City Collective will provide new NIL infrastructures for all Buffalo Bulls student-athletes, embracing the new landscape of college athletics to bring enhanced support for the university’s student-athletes. The collective will benefit from Blueprint Sports’ national team of NIL experts to increase and improve NIL opportunities for Buffalo student-athletes and work throughout the region to proactively fundraise from supporters, work with local non-profits who want to engage with student-athletes, and engage with businesses who believe that working with student-athletes can help boost their business and brands. Nickel City Collective supporters, alumni, and fans have three easy ways to contribute to the collective: Tax-Deductible Donations: Nickel City Collective has partnered with the BPS Foundation , a national 501c3 organization, to support Buffalo Bulls student-athletes. Student-athletes will partner with local nonprofits to work as advocates for charitable causes, including fulfilling that commitment personally with community service hours. Memberships: Become a member of Nickel City Collective and receive exclusive member benefits, like meet-and-greets with student-athletes, autographed merchandise, and more. Corporate Sponsorship: NIL allows local and national sponsors to partner with Buffalo Bull student-athletes for endorsement deals, marketing campaigns, appearances, and other projects. For more information about Nickel City Collective, visit nickelcitynil.com or follow the collective on X and Instagram . ### ABOUT NICKEL CITY COLLECTIVE Nickel City Collective is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for University at Buffalo student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Nickel City Collective are pledging to maximize opportunities for Buffalo Bulls student-athletes. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Nickel City Collective is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information, visit nickelcitynil.com or follow the collective on X and Instagram . ABOUT BLUEPRINT SPORTS Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPS) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite university. BPS' national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Maryland, University of Washington, University of Colorado, Boston College, NC State University, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, Reno, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram and X . MEDIA CONTACTS Marina Bain marina@blueprintsports.com
The official NIL collective for Buffs student-athletes will be front and center during CU’s Black and Gold Weekend with” Prime Time” events on Thursday and Friday. Boulder, CO (April 12, 2024) – 5430 Alliance , the premier NIL Collective supporting all University of Colorado student-athletes, recently announced its event lineup for CU’s Black and Gold Weekend, which will include the “ Prime’s Got Talent ” show on Thursday, April 25 and the Prime Time Elite Dinner with Coach Prime on Friday, April 26. The excitement of Black and Gold weekend will peak on Friday, April 26 with 5430 Alliance’s inaugural “ Prime Time Elite Dinner ” featuring Coach Prime, CU Football student-athletes, and CU Football coaches. This event will be an upscale evening focused on celebrating both the current and future of CU football. This new tradition will allow fans to enjoy an evening filled with dinner, and entertainment, as well as a prestigious live event where attendees can win one-of-a-kind experiences and memorabilia. All proceeds for the evening will go directly to 5430 Alliance to support NIL activities for Buffs Football student-athletes. Tickets for the Prime Time Elite Dinner are on sale now at 5430alliance.com . There are various opportunities available for supporters of CU football student-athletes. You can either purchase individual tickets, an elite table with student-athletes and/or coaches, or a table for Buffs friends of family, and there are several sponsorship opportunities available as well; for more information on sponsor packages, visit the 5430 Alliance website or email info@5430alliance.com . On Thursday, April 25 at 6:30 p.m., the “Prime’s Got Talent” show presented by 5430 Alliance will kick off the Black and Gold weekend festivities at the CU Events Center in Boulder, Colorado. The show is open and free for all fans to attend. In addition to the dazzling talents of Buffs of all kinds, the “Prime’s Got Talent” show will also feature a panel of celebrity judges and a surprise celebrity performance. Tickets for “Prime’s Got Talent” can be found at cubuffs.com . Students who wish to participate in the talent show can submit a 3-minute video showcasing their performance to primesgottalent@gmail.com . To keep up with 5430 Alliance updates surrounding Black and Gold Weekend, visit 5430alliance.com or follow the collective on Facebook , Instagram and X . ABOUT 5430 ALLIANCE 5430 Alliance is the premiere Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 350-plus student-athletes at the University of Colorado. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support 5430 Alliance are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. 5430 Alliance is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Buffs student-athletes, visit 5430alliance.com or follow the collective on Facebook , Instagram and X . MEDIA CONTACTS Marina Bain Senior Director of Communications, Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com
Powered by Blueprint Sports, the new collective supporting Blue Demon student-athletes introduces a new website, fan membership, and other expanded offerings. CHICAGO (April 4, 2024) – Blueprint Sports (BPS), the industry leader in full-service name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives, proudly announced today the launch of Blue Grit Collective , an NIL Collective supporting all DePaul University student-athletes. “We are committed to building a championship experience here at DePaul for each of our 15 sports, and we know that there are four key elements in achieving that,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics DeWayne Peevy. “Facilities, operating budgets, and coaching staffs are three components that athletic departments can contribute to financially to put us in place to succeed. The fourth element is NIL. Today, NIL provides us with an incredible opportunity for rapid advancement and is critical to our future success. Based on current legislation, our institution, coaches, and staff cannot contribute to this area. We need our supporters’ help to achieve our NIL goals. The amount is not as important as the action—we need all Blue Demon Nation to come together to advance each of our programs forward. The Blue Grit Collective, in our partnership with Blueprint Sports, is fully endorsed by DePaul Athletics and provides a new unique opportunity for Blue Demon Nation to impact the student-athlete experience here at DePaul. It’s time to step up, help your university, and make our shared dreams a reality.” The launch of the collective comes with a new website and membership program where Blue Demon fans, supporters and alums will receive exclusive benefits while supporting NIL opportunities for DePaul University student-athletes. Starting at only $15 a month, community supporters can become members of the collective and receive exclusive merchandise, content, and access to events including meet-and-greets with student-athletes, watch parties, and more. Launched shortly after the university named former Big East Coach of the Year, Chris Holtmann, as the next head coach for DePaul Men's Basketball, Blue Grit Collective emerges to provide enhanced NIL support for all Blue Demon student-athletes, echoing the university’s commitment to NIL and the new landscape of college athletics. “The launch of the Blue Grit Collective today is another step forward for DePaul Athletics and is vital to our goals for the men's basketball program,” said Holtmann. "The growth and commitment from the DePaul community toward our NIL efforts is a real difference maker and Blue Grit Collective enhances those opportunities for our student-athletes.” Blue Grit Collective supporters, alumni, and fans have three easy ways to contribute to the collective: Tax-Deductible Donations: Blue Grit Collective has partnered with the BPS Foundation , a national 501c3 organization, to support Blue Demon student-athletes. Student-athletes will partner with local nonprofits to work as advocates for charitable causes, including fulfilling that commitment personally with community service hours. Memberships: Become a member of Blue Grit Collective and receive exclusive member benefits, like meet-and-greets with student-athletes, autographed merchandise, and more. Corporate Sponsorship: NIL allows local and national sponsors to partner with Blue Demon student-athletes for endorsement deals, marketing campaigns, appearances, and other projects. As part of the collective’s immediate roll-out, Blue Grit Collective is organizing a basketball camp for low-income youth in the city of Chicago featuring DePaul men’s basketball student-athletes. Still in its early planning stages, more information about the camp will be released later this summer. The collective will also be partnering with Buckets over Bullying, a non-profit initiative whose mission is to stop cyberbullying of children and teens. It will continue to connect Blue Demon student-athletes with other local non-profits that are making a difference in the community. For more information about Blue Grit Collective, visit bluegritcollective.com and follow them on Facebook , Instagram and X . ### ABOUT BLUE GRIT COLLECTIVE Blue Grit Collective is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for DePaul University student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Blue Grit Collective are pledging to maximize opportunities for Blue Demon student-athletes. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Blue Grit Collective is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information, visit bluegritcollective.com and follow @BlueGritCollective on Facebook , X and Instagram . ABOUT BLUEPRINT SPORTS Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPS) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite university. BPS' national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Maryland, University of Washington, University of Colorado, Boston College, NC State University, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, Reno, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram and X . MEDIA CONTACTS Marina Bain marina@blueprintsports.com
Wichita State University’s official NIL partner is calling on 5,000 Shockers to commit to a $500/year membership to bolster NIL opportunities for Shocker student-athletes. WICHITA, Kan. (March 29, 2024) – Wheat Shock Collective , the premiere collective supporting NIL opportunities for Shocker student-athletes, today announced the “Seed Sowers: 5K Shockers at $500” initiative, designed to strengthen NIL support for current and future Shocker student-athletes. The collective’s goal is to establish a foundation for Wichita State University’s athletics success moving forward, calling on community “Seed Sowers” and 5,000 Shockers from around the country to commit to a $500/year membership or contribution. “The Shocker Way continues to guide our efforts by defining who we are as a department, as well as our objectives and priorities. It’s no secret that aligning championship-level resources with championship-level expectations is paramount to our success, which is why we’re calling on 5,000 members of Shocker Nation from around the globe, to support the Wheat Shock Collective with a $500 annual gift.” The importance of this program is underlined by Wichita State University’s outspoken emphasis on the significance of NIL in the modern athletics landscape. Dedicated to supporting and uplifting its student-athletes, the university has been outwardly supportive of Wheat Shock Collective and its mission to champion the success of Shockers in all sports, as can be seen in this video featuring Kevin Saal (Athletic Director), Paul Mills (Head Men’s Basketball Coach), and Terry Nooner (Head Women’s Basketball Coach). “Without a solid foundation of NIL infrastructures and support, it’s difficult to compete with schools who are boasting over 10,000 members for their NIL collectives,” said Tyler Weber, former Wichita State University baseball student-athlete and current board member for Wheat Shock Collective. “We know how passionate this fan base is, and it’s with them in mind that we want to help Wichita State athletics programs reach higher levels. For those of us who have long graduated from Wichita State, this is the best and most effective way to show our support and invest in the future of Shocker athletics.” Shocker supporters, alumni, and fans that want to take part in the “Seed Sowers” initiative have three easy ways to contribute to the collective: Join the “Shocker Society” annual membership club, or any membership club tier above that HERE and receive exclusive benefits, including access to exclusive content, events, merchandise, and more. Make a yearly one-time contribution of $500 HERE . Make a yearly tax-deductible contribution of $500 HERE . For more information about Wheat Shock Collective, visit wheatshockcollective.com and follow them on Instagram , X , and Facebook . ### ABOUT WHEAT SHOCK COLLECTIVE Wheat Shock Collective is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for Wichita State University student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Wheat Shock Collective are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Wheat Shock Collective is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information, visit wheatshockcollective.com and follow @WheatShockNIL on Instagram , X , and Facebook . MEDIA CONTACT Marina Bain marina@blueprintsports.com
Razorback fans who join Arkansas Edge’s membership program during the Drive for Five can also win exclusive giveaways and VIP Razorback experiences. (Fayetteville, Ark.) Mar. 27, 2023 – Arkansas Edge , the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective of the Arkansas Razorbacks, announced today the launch of their “ Drive for Five ” membership campaign, which seeks to increase the collective’s fan membership club to 5,000 members and grow NIL support for Razorback student-athletes by offering fans a stake in their favorite team’s success. In a letter written to fans and supporters by Arkansas Edge’s Executive Director, Chris Bauer, it was revealed that the collective will unlock exclusive benefits and giveaways for members throughout the Drive for Five event, including VIP experiences, discounts with local businesses, signed memorabilia, and more. “It’s no secret that NIL has changed college athletics,” said Chris Bauer, Executive Director of Arkansas Edge. “Just like having state-of-the-art facilities and other student-athlete support services, opportunities for NIL have become a critical component. While charitable contributions and business partnerships also play a big part, it’s important we also stay competitive with other schools whose collectives claim membership rolls of over 5,000 and sometimes up to 10,000 members. A strong NIL program is a necessity in this changing landscape to attract top talent and support and retain the talent we already have.” Chris continued, “This isn’t just about us. As Arkansas Edge grows, we want this to be fun and engaging, and we also want to reward our members too for the part they play in helping us stay competitive.” The Drive for Five membership campaign will involve exclusive giveaways at each major milestone, starting off with opportunities to win sideline passes for the Razorback Spring Football game, tickets for a home baseball game, dinner for two at local restaurants, and memorabilia signed by baseball student-athletes, all of which will be given away to members – both current and new – once the collective reaches its first milestone. More giveaways will be introduced as Arkansas Edge reaches each milestone on its way to 5,000 total members. “Our vision is to be the BEST in every area of competition that faces our athletics program, and this includes our newest competitor, NIL,” Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Hunter Yurachek said. “One thing I know about our fans and our state is how passionate they are about the Razorbacks and our success. The Drive for Five kicks off a remarkable opportunity to showcase that pride and take part in our success by growing Arkansas Edge’s membership to help support our Razorback student-athletes.” In addition to Arkansas Edge’s Drive for Five giveaways, the collective will also be unveiling discounts with local business partners and other benefits for all Arkansas Edge members at each milestone. To reward current members at the start of this campaign, starting April 1st, all Arkansas Edge members can receive 10% off in-store orders at all Wright’s BBQ locations for in-store orders. Fans and supporters can participate in the Drive for Five membership campaign and win Arkansas Edge’s exclusive giveaways by becoming a member at any level at https://arkansasedgenil.com/pages/drive-for-5 . For more information on the Drive for Five membership campaign, member rewards and discounts or on additional ways to get involved with Arkansas Edge, email info@arkansasedgenil.com or visit www.arkansasedgenil.com. About Arkansas Edge Arkansas Edge is the official Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 465-plus student-athletes at the University of Arkansas. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support Arkansas Edge are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. Arkansas Edge is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Razorback student-athletes, visit arkansasedgenil.com or follow @ArkansasEdgeNIL on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter . # # # Media Contacts: Marina Bain marina@blueprintsports.com
Fueled by a generous corporate sponsor, Zags Collective’s Match Madness will see all incoming donations matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $200K. SPOKANE, WA. (March 27, 2024) – Zags Collective , the NIL collective that serves student-athletes at Gonzaga University, announced today the launch of the “ Match Madness: Gonzaga's $400K Challenge ” NIL fundraising campaign. The fundraiser kicks off just two days after Gonzaga’s men's and women’s basketball teams both earned spots in the NCAA March Madness Tournament’s Sweet 16 and is fueled by a generous corporate sponsor who will match all incoming donations up to $200K. The collective’s $400K goal will serve to support and uplift current and future Zags Basketball student-athletes at an elite level with increased NIL opportunities. “There’s nothing more representative of Gonzaga culture than what our men’s and women’s basketball programs have been able to accomplish this year and in years past,” said Chris Standiford, Athletic Director at Gonzaga University. “As we celebrate their return to the Sweet 16 and look to our future, it’s clear that it’s never been more important for us to uplift the Zags Basketball student-athletes who have such a positive impact on Gonzaga and our community. In the new age of NIL, it takes a village to make this happen, and right now we’re presented with an amazing opportunity thanks to a generous corporate sponsor who’s made the Zags Collective Match Madness possible. I’m calling on every Zags fan to have a stake in our teams’ success by donating to the Zags Collective today.” Zags Men’s Basketball has made the Sweet Sixteen a record nine years in a row, and the women’s team has capitalized off a great regular season with a successful run in the NCAA Tournament. Zags Collective’s Match Madness celebrates this success and the rich history of winning at Gonzaga University. “This is a chance for any and every Zags fan to double their impact in a very short time on this Gonzaga program and the Zags programs of the future,” said Corey Kispert, former Zags Basketball student-athlete and current Washington Wizards player. “Our student-athletes need the same support that any other top-level NCAA program has available, and this is an incredible chance to have a lasting impact on Gonzaga.” Zags fans, supporters, and alumni can participate in the Zags Collective Match Madness: $400K Challenge by heading to zagscollective.com to make a contribution that will be matched dollar-for-dollar from now until Zags Men’s Basketball tip-off against Purdue on Friday. # # # About Zags Collective Zags Collective is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) collective for Gonzaga University student-athletes, alumni and fans. Community members who commit their support to Zags Collective are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-ath letes to build their brand and engage with the community. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Zags Collective is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports . For more information, visit zagscollective.com and follow @ZagsCollective on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . Media Contacts: Marina Bain marina@blueprintsports.com
5430 Alliance introduces a new fan membership program, alongside other expanded offerings. Boulder, CO (March 26, 2024) – Blueprint Sports (BPS), the industry leader in full-service name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives, proudly announces the launch of 5430 Alliance , the premier NIL Collective supporting all 350-plus University of Colorado student-athletes in a unifying move combining the Buffs4Life NIL Collective and 5430 Foundation to bring all of the university’s NIL opportunities into one streamlined organization. “NIL is a critical component of our athletics programs as we support our student-athletes and compete for national championships,” said Rick George, University of Colorado’s Athletic Director. “5430 Alliance ushers in a new chapter of NIL at Colorado and allows all our fans and alumni to support our student-athletes through one avenue. We encourage every supporter of the Buffs community to pledge their support to 5430 Alliance.” Every contribution makes a difference. Starting at only $15 a month, community supporters can become members of the collective and show their affinity for the Buffs with brand-new merchandise showcasing the new logo. As part of its launch goal, 5430 Alliance is seeking 5,000 CU fans to become members. “WE HERE and we’re not settling for nothing! We have a commitment to DOMINATE on and off the field, and in order to do that we need to DOMINATE in our NIL program as well,” said Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders. “5430 Alliance gives EVERY darn Colorado fan the opportunity to be a part of HISTORY. IT DON’T STOP BABY!” Buffs supporters, alumni, and fans have three easy ways to contribute to 5430 Alliance: Memberships: Become a member of 5430 Alliance and receive exclusive member benefits, like meet-and-greets with student-athletes, autographed merchandise, and more. One-Time Contributions: Fans and supporters can make a one-time general contribution to 5430 Alliance which directly supports CU student-athletes and Buffs NIL. Tax-Deductible Donations: Supporters can make tax-deductible donations through 5430 Alliance’s partnership with the BPS Foundation , a 501c3 organization, to support Buffs student-athletes. Student-athletes will partner with local nonprofits to advocate for charitable causes, personally fulfilling that commitment with community service hours. 5430 Alliance will also work alongside other critical nonprofit organizations in the Boulder community to support their missions and expose Buff student-athletes to a variety of charitable outlets. As part of the University’s consolidated NIL landscape, the Buffs4Life Foundation will be the premiere charity partner for 5430 Alliance, with student-athletes continuing to support the charitable opportunities of the organization. The Buffs4Life NIL Collective was the first NIL collective at the University of Colorado. They successfully navigated the ever-changing landscape of NIL to cover all of CU’s sports in the early stages of NIL at CU. Buffs4Life NIL Collective had opportunities to get current CU student-athletes in the community to support the Foundation’s mental health and suicide prevention initiatives for alumni athletes. Buffs4Life NIL Collective supported more than 200 CU student-athletes across seven different sports. “We are so proud of the work that we’ve done already in the Boulder community, and even more proud that we can continue to work hand-in-hand with 5430 Alliance to make an impact,” said Sean Tufts, Buffs4Life President. “We are committed to the mission of Buffs Helping Buffs and with 5430 Alliance there’s a clear way for all of our fans to do just that.” 5430 Alliance will be staffed by a full-time, local team of dedicated professionals to manage the daily operations of the collective. The staff will work throughout the region to proactively fundraise from supporters, work with local non-profits who want to engage with student-athletes, and engage with businesses who believe that working with student-athletes can help boost their business and brands. The collective is actively hiring for the following positions: Executive Director , Director of Operations and Development and Sales Manager. Board members Eric Belcher and Jason Weiss will continue in their current roles. “Our partnership with Blueprint Sports allows us to take 5430 Alliance to the next level and enhance our NIL opportunities and programming for all CU student-athletes,” said Belcher. “We’re thrilled to see where this next chapter takes us and for the immediate impact the support of our fans will have on our student-athletes and in our beloved community.” Ahead of CU’s Black & Gold Day Spring Football Game, 5430 Alliance will also be organizing an exclusive event on April 26th featuring CU coaches, lettermen, and student-athletes. Details and tickets will be released on the collective’s website in the coming weeks. For more information about 5430 Alliance, visit 5430alliance.com and follow on Facebook , Instagram and X . ### ABOUT 5430 ALLIANCE 5430 Alliance is the premiere Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective supporting 350-plus student-athletes at the University of Colorado. Supporters, fans, and alumni who support 5430 Alliance are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brands and engage with the community. There are various ways to get involved, including corporate partnerships, memberships, and charitable contributions. 5430 Alliance is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information about NIL partnerships with Buffs student-athletes, visit 5430alliance.com. ABOUT BUFFS4LIFE FOUNDATION Buffs4Life Foundation has been a 501(c)(3) organization for over 19 years focused on supporting CU alumni athletes. CU alumni athletes are eligible to receive financial and mental health support when they need it. Their charitable outreach is focused on promoting generational ties between current and alumni Buffs and the Boulder community. Buffs4Life Foundation operates a scholarship fund that all CU alumni student-athletes and their children are eligible to apply for. While the foundation will no longer continue the NIL aspect of the organization, it will continue in its mission to provide a support system that ensures that no University of Colorado Athlete Alumni shall struggle alone. Visit Buffs4Life Foundation website for more information buffs4life.org. ABOUT BLUEPRINT SPORTS Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPS) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite universities. BPS' national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Maryland, University of Washington, University of Colorado, Boston College, NC State University, University of Utah, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram and X . MEDIA CONTACTS Marina Bain Blueprint Sports marina@blueprintsports.com Steve Hurlbert CU Boulder Athletics Steve.Hurlbert@colorado.edu
Mass St. Collective and Kansas Athletics announce a $1M anonymous gift. The campaign looks to match this $1M and will give away exclusive experiences, including an all-inclusive trip to see KU vs CU at Arrowhead Stadium next season. LAWRENCE, Kan. (March 20, 2024) – Mass St. Collective , the NIL collective that serves all student-athletes at the University of Kansas, announced today the launch of the “ March to a Million ” NIL fundraising campaign. The fundraiser aims to unite all Jayhawk fans toward a common $1M goal matching a $1M anonymous gift. 94% of the money raised through the March to a Million campaign will go directly to student-athletes while 6% will go to fuel the campaign and associated marketing assets to promote it. "This lead matching gift further strengthens our partnership with Mass St. and demonstrates an elevated commitment to NIL at KU,” said University of Kansas Athletic Director, Travis Goff. “With Keon at the helm, Blueprint Sports fueling their initiatives, and a profound commitment from our support base, we are confident that Kansas Athletics will enhance its standing as a leader in NIL opportunities for our student-athletes. We are grateful for the leadership support from our donors to set an ambitious goal. And we are confident Jayhawks will rise up to match the $1M goal. Every dollar makes a difference, and every Jayhawk has a chance to move the needle for our deserving student-athletes." The total $2M goal provides funds that increase NIL opportunities for University of Kansas student-athletes across all sports and champion the success of current and future Jayhawk student-athletes through NIL. “March to a Million is a fun and creative way for our fanbase to get involved in NIL at KU,” said Keon Stowers, Executive Director of Mass St. Collective. “We must remain innovative in this space and allow all Jayhawks to not only have an impact on NIL at KU, but to also see the value in their commitment to our student-athletes and their coaches.” The fundraiser kicks off today and will roll out in four phases, each one celebrating the rich history of KU athletics across various sports. Upon reaching each phase’s key fundraising milestone, Mass St. Collective will be giving away special prizes and experiences including tickets to post-season championship events, sideline passes to KU’s 2024 Spring Showcase, an Olympic baton signed by Jayhawk track legends, KU memorabilia signed by Jayhawk champions, and an all-inclusive trip to KU’s game vs the Colorado Buffaloes at Arrowhead Stadium next season. Anyone can donate and earn entries for the March to a Million prizes. Please visit www.massstnil.com/marchtoamillion to learn more about this exciting campaign and pledge your support. For more information about ways to get involved with the collective, contact Mass St. Collective’s Executive Director, Keon Stowers, at keon@MassStNIL.com . ### ABOUT MASS ST. Founded in July of 2021 after the NCAA passed its NIL policy, Mass St. Collective was created to assist KU student-athletes in building their brand and creating partnerships designed to produce permissible activities for them to monetize from their Name, Image, and Likeness. Mass St. Collective, named after the famous Massachusetts Street, that runs through downtown Lawrence, helps student-athletes make positive contributions to our local communities while receiving compensation and growing their respective brands. A proud partner of Kansas Athletics, Mass St. works to create opportunities and build partnerships for its nearly 500 student-athletes to leave a lasting impact for generations to come. For more information about Mass St. Collective, visit MassStNIL.com and follow them on Facebook , Instagram and X . ABOUT BLUEPRINT SPORTS Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPS) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite university. BPS' national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Maryland, University of Washington, Boston College, NC State University, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram and X . MEDIA CONTACTS Marina Bain marina@blueprintsports.com
As the official collective of Wichita State Athletics, Wheat Shock Collective’s partnership with Blueprint Sports unlocks a premier fan membership program, new website, and additional resources to better NIL for Shocker student-athletes. WICHITA, Kan. (March 7, 2024) – Blueprint Sports (BPSE), the industry leader in full-service Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collectives, today announced the launch of Wheat Shock Collective (formerly Armchair Strategies), the premiere collective supporting NIL opportunities for Shocker student-athletes. The partnership will provide increased infrastructure for the collective as it strives to elevate its NIL strategies and support for WSU student-athletes, fans, and alumni. Wheat Shock Collective is rebranded from Armchair Strategies, the first NIL collective at Wichita State, effective immediately. “We’re excited to see Wichita State student-athletes benefit from the additional support that Wheat Shock Collective will provide,” said Kevin Saal, Director of Athletics at Wichita State University. “We all know how important NIL is in today’s landscape, so having an organization that’s dedicated to their NIL success and to connecting them with the Wichita community is critical. With alums Tymber and Tyler, as well as other members of this wonderful collective leadership group, it’s paramount we support these new endeavors to positively impact the future successes of NIL at WSU. As we journey ahead, we are challenging 5,000 members of Shocker Nation, from around the globe, to support the Wheat Shock Collective with a $500 annual gift. These resources will equip both Wheat Shock Collective and Shocker Athletics in the recruitment, development and retention of elite-level talent.” "Elevating WSU athletics has been a central focus for us since the inception of the collective nearly two years ago," said Tymber Lee, partner at Wheat Shock Collective. "With the increasing importance of NIL, and in collaboration with Blueprint Sports, we are advancing our efforts to provide even more support in new and creative ways. This presents a significant opportunity for all Shockers, and your support is particularly crucial at this juncture." The launch of Wheat Shock Collective streamlines NIL support for WSU student-athletes and includes a brand-new membership program for fans, supporters and alumni. Wheat Shock Collective members will gain exclusive access to content, events, merchandise and more. Additionally, the collective will also accept tax-deductible donations through a partnership with the BPS Foundation, a national 501c3 organization, and corporate sponsorship options for businesses looking to partner with student-athletes to promote a product or service. Wheat Shock Collective supporters, alumni, and fans have three easy ways to contribute to the collective: Tax-Deductible Donations : Wheat Shock Collective has partnered with the BPS Foundation, a national 501c3 organization, to support WSU student-athletes. Student-athletes will partner with local nonprofits to work as advocates for charitable causes, including fulfilling that commitment personally with community service hours. Membership : Become a member of Wheat Shock Collective and receive exclusive member benefits, like meet-and-greets with student-athletes, autographed merchandise, and more. Corporate Sponsorship : NIL allows local and national sponsors to partner with Wichita State student-athletes for endorsement deals, marketing campaigns, appearances, and other projects. The collective will also enhance its operations by hiring full-time professionals and local staff members who are dedicated to running day-to-day operations, fundraising campaigns, corporate partnerships, athlete engagements, and more, with additional support from Blueprint Sports’ national team of experts. Shocker men’s basketball, baseball, and women’s volleyball student-athletes have already participated in NIL engagements this year, with more WSU student-athletes benefiting from the collective’s support in the weeks to come. For more information about Wheat Shock Collective, visit wheatshockcollective.com and follow them on Instagram , X , and Facebook . You can also email your questions to info@wheatshockcollective.com . ### ABOUT WHEAT SHOCK COLLECTIVE Wheat Shock Collective (formerly Armchair Strategies) is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for Wichita State University student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to Wheat Shock Collective are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. Wheat Shock Collective is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information, visit wheatshockcollective.com and follow @WheatShockNIL on Instagram , X , and Facebook . ABOUT BLUEPRINT SPORTS Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPS) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite university. BPS' national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Maryland, University of Washington, Boston College, NC State University, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram and X . MEDIA CONTACT Marina Bain marina@blueprintsports.com
Blueprint Sports and Legends bring an enhanced professional solution for NIL collectives at Power Five universities nationwide. NEW YORK and LAS VEGAS (March 6, 2024) – Legends , a global premium experiences company, and Blueprint Sports (BPSE), the industry leader in full-service name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives, have formed a strategic partnership that will provide NIL collectives and Power Five universities with an unmatched NIL infrastructure, bolstering professional operational capacities, service offerings, and NIL industry expertise. The result will be the industry-leading NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) solution, setting the standard for NIL and student-athlete sports marketing. Legends College and Blueprint Sports will collaborate to support student-athletes and the rapidly evolving college athletics NIL landscape. Together, they will amplify and build sustainable revenue opportunities for NIL collectives under the BPSE umbrella, focusing on philanthropic fundraising, student-athlete sponsorships, memberships, exclusive events, and merchandise fulfillment. “The college athletics landscape has undergone rapid transformation,” stated Mike Behan, President of Legends College. “Through our close collaboration with partners during this dynamic period, Legends is acutely aware of the significant opportunities stemming from NIL, as well as the challenge in establishing sustainable revenue models for NIL collectives. Our partnership with Blueprint Sports is positioned to address this challenge, offering an unparalleled solution for universities and NIL collectives to generate long-term revenue in support of student-athletes.” "Balancing the traditional institutional legacy of college athletics with the new era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) can be a delicate task," said Rob Sine, CEO of Blueprint Sports. "Our collaboration with Legends enables our teams to combine their extensive knowledge, proven track records, and resources to provide the most comprehensive and forward-facing solution to an industry undergoing tremendous change. Our goal is to continue guiding the college sports industry, athletic departments, conferences, and collectives in the right direction while maximizing the impact of NIL on student-athletes and their programs.” Both companies have partnerships involving the University of Kansas, the University of Maryland, the University of Utah, and Villanova University. BPSE powers collectives that support student-athletes at each university, and Legends College’s partnerships with each span multiple services across the company’s holistic solution. These universities will be the first to benefit from Legends and BPSE’s new strategic partnership. Across its portfolio, BPSE powers collectives at more than 25 universities nationwide, including twelve Power-Five universities, presenting an incredible opportunity for both companies to grow and expand within the industry together. Legends’ college business has grown exponentially over the past 10-plus years and includes partnerships with leading universities, collegiate organizations, and events. Born out of the impact Legends continues to have across the collegiate landscape, Legends College was launched in November 2023 and provides a 360-degree service solution including research, project development, premium ticket sales, sponsorships, food and beverage, merchandise, business intelligence, marketing and philanthropic fundraising and engagement. The partnership with BPSE expands and enhances Legends’ NIL proficiency across its services. ### About Legends Founded in 2008, Legends is a premium experiences company with six divisions operating worldwide – Global Planning, Global Sales, Global Partnerships, Hospitality, Global Merchandise, and Global Technology Solutions – offering clients and partners a 360-degree data and analytics fueled service solution platform to elevate their brand and execute their vision. Currently, Legends works with marquee clients across business verticals including professional sports; collegiate; attractions; entertainment; and conventions and leisure. We are the industry leaders in designing, planning, and realizing exceptional experiences in sports and entertainment. For more information, visit www.Legends.net and follow @TheLegendsWay on X and Instagram. About Blueprint Sports Founded in 2020, Blueprint Sports (BPSE) powers the industry's leading name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives for alumni, supporters, and businesses, connecting them with student-athletes at their favorite universities. BPSE's national portfolio of collectives supports student-athletes across the country, including Penn State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, University of Colorado, UCLA, University of Maryland, University of Washington, University of Utah, Boston College, NC State University, Villanova University, Stanford University, Gonzaga University, University of Arizona, University of Nevada Las Vegas, University of Nevada, and more. The Blueprint Sports management team possesses over 50 years of college and professional sports experience, spanning the Pac-12 Conference, IMG, Learfield, and more. For more information, visit blueprintsports.com or its pages on Facebook , Instagram , and X . Media Contacts: Stacey Escudero, Legends, sescudero@legends.net Marina Bain, Blueprint Sports, marina@blueprintsports.com
