Ohio High Schools Prepare to Vote on NIL Policy for Athletes

Ohio high schools are on the brink of a significant decision that could change the landscape for student-athletes across the state. A vote on a new Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) policy is set to take place this week, which would enable high school athletes to engage in business activities tied to their personal brand. This policy could allow athletes to pursue sponsorships and endorsements, transforming how they approach both their sports and their financial opportunities.

Implications of the Upcoming Vote

As principals prepare for the vote, schools like Rocky River High School are readying themselves for the potential impacts. Adham Schirg, the district’s athletic director, remarked that discussions surrounding NIL have been ongoing. “Our high school principal, athletic and activities director, and I have discussed NIL, along with the potential shift in practices that will come along with it,” Schirg stated. The district has been proactive, sharing updates and background information about the proposed changes during the November 3, 2023 Board of Education meeting.

If the vote passes, Tim Stried, director of media relations for the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA), indicated that student-athletes will be allowed to monetize their name, image, and likeness under the new guidelines. This would mark a pivotal shift for high school athletics in Ohio, which has been relatively conservative regarding student compensation.

The outcome of the vote is critical; if it fails, the future of NIL in Ohio could hinge on legal proceedings following a lawsuit already filed concerning the topic. Schirg emphasized the need for thorough education and support for families as they navigate these new opportunities. “There will also be education needed for our community and partners on how to work alongside our student-athletes and families,” he said.

Proposed Changes and Community Support

The proposed bylaw encourages student-athletes and their guardians to seek professional advice, understand contracts thoroughly, and prioritize both academic and athletic commitments. This approach aims to protect their eligibility and ensure long-term success while participating in NIL activities. The bylaw emphasizes treating these activities as business ventures, requiring compliance with existing school and state regulations.

Rocky River’s leadership is also focused on safeguarding students as they enter the NIL marketplace, especially when approached with sponsorship opportunities. “Creating clear policies that are understandable and then providing education and resources when approached for these potential opportunities,” Schirg noted.

To facilitate understanding of the proposal, the district has enlisted a consulting firm specializing in NIL education to offer webinars for schools before the vote. This initiative aims to clarify the proposal’s details and outline the next steps if the vote passes.

The referendum requires a simple majority from the OHSAA’s 815 member schools to pass. This marks the second attempt for OHSAA schools to vote on an NIL proposal; in 2022, a similar proposal was rejected, with 538 schools voting against it and only 254 in favor.

The OHSAA Board of Directors had previously approved the language for a new NIL referendum to be presented in May 2025, but the current legal challenges have expedited the process. Feedback from a committee of school administrators has also been considered in shaping the new proposal.

Should the vote succeed, the new bylaw would take effect immediately, allowing student-athletes to pursue NIL opportunities while maintaining their amateur status. Conversely, if the vote fails, the existing temporary restraining order will remain in effect until a preliminary injunction hearing scheduled for December 15, 2023, leaving the ultimate decision regarding NIL in Ohio to the courts.

For districts like Rocky River, Bay Village, and Westlake, this vote represents a pivotal moment in high school athletics. Local leaders are committed to ensuring that student welfare remains the top priority as they navigate this evolving landscape.