Beginning in November 2025, OHSAA member schools approved a measure allowing Ohio student-athletes to enter into agreements and receive compensation for the use of their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This includes payments for appearances, licensing, social media content, endorsements, and other forms of personal branding linked to their public recognition.

This NIL provision is one of 11 bylaws governing student eligibility. Under Bylaw 4-1-1, every student must continue to meet all requirements of Bylaw 4 to remain eligible for interscholastic athletics. Notably, these rules still do not permit students to be paid to play the sport in which they compete as amateurs. Bylaw 5 (Awards/Gifts/Prizes) also remains unchanged: student-athletes may accept awards, gifts, or prizes based on their participation or finish in a competition only if (a) the total value does not exceed $500 per event and (b) the award is not cash.

The updated NIL language further outlines reporting procedures and necessary limitations to help students avoid inadvertently violating OHSAA recruiting or amateurism regulations.

Complete OHSAA By Laws   OHSAA General Sports Regulations   OHSAA NIL Resource Center    OHSAA Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions for the OHSAA, email personalbranding@ohsaa.org

McKinley NIL Home