HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton University athletics is implementing a new program to help student athletes maximize their Name, Image and Likeness opportunities.
The "Hampton Pirates Exchange" will provide a space for businesses to connect with student athletes for NIL opportunities. The initiative is an extension of the university's existing partnership with INFLCR and Teamworks, a "leading athlete brand building and NIL business management app". Using the Pirates Exchange technology, members of the business community can work directly with athletes on brand focused activities.
It's a step forward for the Pirates in a space that is becoming more and more important for college athletic departments.
The news comes the week after Hampton athletic director Anthony D. Henderson Jr. released a letter regarding student athlete eligibility. Multiple student athletes across sports failed to meet NCAA eligibility requirements. Henderson said the school is working to get those students back into games.
In his letter, he announced four measures to improve future eligibility requirement adherence:
1. Increased the number of University Compliance staff members;
2. Increased the number of Athletics Academic Support staff members;
3. Retained experienced consultants to assist us with appropriate processes and procedures;
4. Worked closely with the NCAA National Office to ensure adherence to rules and regulations moving forward.