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Cumberland University

NIL at Cumberland University Athletics

Empowering Phoenix Student-Athletes to Build Their Brand

At Cumberland University, we support our student-athletes in maximizing opportunities surrounding Name, Image and Likeness (NIL). Through strategic partnerships, education, and compliance support, Cumberland student-athletes have opportunities to build their personal brands, connect with businesses, and monetize their influence while remaining focused on academic and athletic success.


Our NIL Partners

Opendorse

Cumberland University Athletics has partnered with Opendorse, the leading NIL marketplace in college athletics. Opendorse provides Cumberland student-athletes with opportunities to connect with brands, disclose NIL activities, and access educational resources related to NIL.

Through Opendorse, student-athletes can:

  • Connect with local and national businesses

  • Receive and manage NIL opportunities

  • Build a personal athlete profile

  • Learn best practices for branding and compliance

Businesses and supporters interested in partnering with Cumberland student-athletes can visit https://opendorse.com/cumberland-phoenix.

Influxer

Cumberland Athletics also partners with Influxer, providing student-athletes access to customized NIL merchandise opportunities.

Through Influxer, Phoenix student-athletes can:

  • Launch personalized apparel and merchandise

  • Create their own branded storefront

  • Earn revenue from merchandise sales

  • Grow their personal brand through fan engagement


What Cumberland Student-Athletes Can Do Through NIL

Cumberland University student-athletes may earn compensation through approved NIL opportunities, including:

  • Social media promotions and sponsored posts

  • Personal appearances and speaking engagements

  • Autograph sessions and meet-and-greets

  • Individual lessons, clinics, and camps

  • Merchandise and brand collaborations

  • Media appearances (podcasts, radio, television, etc.)

All NIL activities must be disclosed and approved through the Cumberland Athletics Department.


NIL Guidelines & Restrictions

To protect eligibility and institutional partnerships, Cumberland student-athletes must follow the following guidelines:

Prohibited Endorsements

Student-athletes may not endorse or promote:

  • Sports wagering, casinos, or gambling entities

  • Tobacco, nicotine, vaping, marijuana, or alcohol products

  • Adult entertainment

  • Products marketed exclusively to individuals 18+

All NIL activities must be disclosed and approved through the Cumberland Athletics Department.


Academic & Team Responsibilities

Student-athletes may not miss:

  • Classes

  • Tutoring or academic obligations

  • Practices

  • Team activities

  • Competitions

for NIL-related activities.


University Branding & Licensing

Student-athletes may not use:

  • Cumberland University logos

  • Institutional trademarks

  • Team-issued uniforms or marks

  • Official university branding without prior approval

Student-athletes also may not enter endorsement agreements that conflict with existing university sponsorship agreements.


Team-Issued Equipment & Memorabilia

Student-athletes may not sell:

  • Team-issued apparel

  • Equipment

  • Uniforms

  • Institutional property

International Student-Athletes

International student-athletes should consult with university officials before entering NIL agreements, as visa and immigration regulations may impact eligibility for compensation.

NIL activities may also impact Pell Grants and/or financial aid eligibility.


For Businesses & Supporters

Interested in partnering with Cumberland University student-athletes?

Explore NIL opportunities through Opendorse or connect with Cumberland Athletics to learn how to support Phoenix student-athletes through compliant NIL opportunities.