Every eligible and currently enrolled University of South Carolina student-athlete will be offered a name, image, and likeness (NIL) contract by Garnet Trust, it was announced on Monday. Over 500 student-athletes participate in intercollegiate sports at the University of South Carolina.
The deal is being presented in conjunction with the launch of Garnet Trust Connect, a robust directory featuring current South Carolina student-athletes. Participating student-athletes that opt into the agreement will be offered compensation for rights to their name, image, and likeness as well as social media promotion for Connect. Those individuals will also be given the option to become ambassadors for Garnet Trust, giving student-athletes commission earnings based on tracked membership referrals.
Each Garnet Trust Connect listing for athletes will house biographical information as well as links to name, image, and likeness (NIL) initiatives, charitable causes, plus fan and business engagement opportunities.
“This is a truly unique initiative in the name, image, and likeness space,” said Brian Shoemaker, founder of Garnet Trust. “It’s a way for every current USC student-athlete to not only capitalize on NIL, but to build their brands. And it’s a simple way for fans to get connect with and get closer to USC athletes.”
How can South Carolina fans get involved?
Garnet Trust is for all serious Gamecock fans. You can become a supporter by purchasing a membership. And you can become an advocate by telling other serious Gamecock fans.
Dakereon Joyner: “I encourage all hardcore fans to join Garnet Trust, if financially able. Just as important, share with other fans using social media, message boards, and email. Tell everyone about this great organization.
MarShawn Lloyd: “Garnet Trust has been the best thing for me since NIL began. Garnet Trust and its members have been a game changer in the lives of athletes.”
NIL deals offered by Garnet Trust are entirely funded from fan memberships and business sponsorships.
How can South Carolina student athletes get involved?
In order to qualify, student-athletes must be in good academic standing per University of South Carolina NIL policy. All agreements will be contracted to meet state of South Carolina law and university policy, and Garnet Trust has partnered with leading NIL compliance solution provider Athliance for the disclosure process. Deals will be automatically disclosed to the University of South Carolina by Athliance, eliminating that step for student-athletes.
Athletes interested in joining Garnet Trust Connect can email connect@GarnetTrust.com.
