In The Know

If we compare a football coaching staff to a corporate structure, here’s how their roles would align:

Football Coaching Staff vs. Corporate Structure

Football Role	Corporate Equivalent	Responsibilities
Head Coach (HC) (DM)	Chief Executive Officer (CEO)	Oversees entire program, sets vision, makes final decisions, represents the team publicly.
Offensive/Defensive Coordinator (OC/DC) (DM)	Chief Operating Officer (COO)	Executes game plans, oversees operations on their side of the ball, manages key staff.
Position Coaches (DM/DI)	Department Managers	Lead and develop individual units (QB coach = Sales Manager, OL coach = Engineering Manager, etc.).
Strength & Conditioning Coach (NDM/DI)	Head of Training & Development	Ensures player growth, conditioning, and injury prevention (corporate equivalent: professional development/training programs).
Recruiting Coordinator (NDM/CS/DI)	Head of Talent Acquisition	Identifies, evaluates, and secures new talent (similar to HR in hiring top employees).
Director of Football Operations (CS)	Chief of Staff / Director of Operations	Handles logistics, schedules, team travel, and daily operations.
Analysts & Quality Control Coaches(NDM/CS)	Business Analysts / Strategy Team	Break down film, provide data-driven insights, and assist in game-planning (corporate equivalent: market research & strategic planning).
Graduate Assistants (GAs) (NDM)/CS)	Junior Associates / Interns	Entry-level roles supporting the staff while gaining experience.
General Manger (GM)	Vice President of Talent Acquisition (VP of TA)	Strategically manage roster movement (recruitment, retention, transfer portal).

How It Works in Practice:

The Head Coach (CEO) sets the culture, vision, and strategy for the program.

The Coordinators (COO-level leaders) implement the strategy and oversee major departments (offense, defense, special teams).

The Position Coaches (Managers) focus on developing their individual groups and ensuring they meet team goals.

The Support Staff (Analysts, Recruiting, Strength Staff, Operations) ensure efficiency and development behind the scenes.

The General Manager in modern day college football is increasingly important because of NIL, the transfer portal, and roster management. They are a decision maker.

Basketball Coaching Staff	Corporate Equivalent	Job Responsibilities
Head Coach (DM)	Chief Executive Officer (CEO)	Sets the vision, strategy, and culture of the team; oversees all aspects of team performance and decision-making.
Associate Head Coach (DI)	Chief Operating Officer (COO)	Assists the head coach in managing day-to-day operations; ensures execution of game plans and team development.
Assistant Coach (Offense/Defense) (DI)	Vice President (Operations/Strategy)	Specializes in offensive and defensive tactics; helps implement team strategy and player development.
General Manager (GM) (DM/DI)	Director of Basketball Operations / Business Strategy Manager	Manages roster, recruiting operations, NIL opportunities, analytics, and team logistics. Acts as a bridge between coaching staff, administration, and player development.
Strength & Conditioning Coach (DI)	Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)	Manages player fitness, conditioning, and injury prevention to optimize performance.
Recruiting Coordinator (NDM/DI)	Director of Talent Acquisition	Scouts and recruits new talent; ensures player prospects fit the team’s culture and needs.
Scouting Coordinator (DI)	Market Research Analyst	Evaluates opponents and potential recruits; analyzes game film to identify strengths and weaknesses.
Athletic Trainer (CS)(DM)	Health & Safety Officer	Handles injury prevention, rehabilitation, and overall player health management.
Director of Basketball Operations (CS)	Senior Director of Operations	Handles administrative and operational aspects of the team, including scheduling, compliance, and logistics.

(DM)- Decision Maker- This profile is able to make the decision on if an athlete is offered a scholarship.

(NDM)- Non-Decision Maker- This profile is not able to make the decision on if an athlete is offered a scholarship.

(DI) Decision Influencer- This profile has influence on if an athlete is offered a scholarship but often times must be given the green light from a decision maker. This profile also has influence on variables such as playing time when the athlete begins at the University.

(CS) Communication staff- Often times this profile is delegated to perform outreach and communicate to athletes and there families. Their main job is to assist in recruiting, informing, and retaining athletes.

Types of University Communication & What They Mean

General Recruiting Letters & Camp Invites

These are often sent to many athletes and may not indicate serious interest.

Schools use these to build relationships and encourage athletes to attend camps or visit their program.

This form of communication is something often automated and sent out from the communication staff and non decision makers.

Personalized Letters from Coaches

If a letter is handwritten, personalized, or includes direct contact info, the school may have stronger interest.

Look for specific mentions of your athlete’s performance or how he fits into their program.

This form of communication is personal and can come from Decision influencers all the way up to Decision Makers.

Questionnaires & Admissions Materials

These are used to collect more information and gauge interest.

Filling them out can put your athlete on their radar but doesn’t guarantee an offer.

This form of communication is something often automated and sent out from the communication staff and non decision makers.

Official Offer Letters

Only official scholarship offers come in writing, usually after direct communication with the Head Coach.

Verbal offers are common but not binding. Only the scholarship agreement is official.

What to Do Next

Have Your Athlete Contact the Coach – A polite email or call asking about their status in the recruiting process can provide clarity.

Check Recruiting Websites – If your athlete has a recruiting profile (Hudl, 247Sports, Rivals, On3), see if the school has viewed it. (add On3 to the parenthesis).

Continue the Recruiting Process – Keep options open with other schools and remain proactive in reaching out.

Has your athlete had any direct contact with the coaching staff yet?

High School Sports Facts

Football and track & field have the most high school athletes in the U.S.

Only about 7% of high school athletes go on to play in college at any level.

Some states (like Texas, Florida, and California) are known for producing the top college recruits.

The most popular high school sport in the U.S. is football, with over 1 million players.

Basketball is the most played girls’ sport, with over 400,000 athletes.

AAU basketball helps high school players get noticed by college scouts, sometimes more than regular school teams.

7 on 7 Football produces a similar effect as AAU Basketball in players efforts to get noticed by colleges. Often times colleges have 7 on 7 tournaments at the university.

High school baseball players can be drafted straight to the MLB, unlike football and basketball, which require college or age limits.

College Sports Facts

The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) governs college sports and has three divisions (Division I, Division II, Division III).

Only about 2% of high school athletes get a full-ride Division I scholarship.

The National Letter of Intent (NLI) was a binding agreement between an athlete and a school. That is now replaced by Financial agreements between the athlete and University.

College football generates billions in revenue, with big programs like Alabama and Ohio State making over $100 million a year.

Walk-ons (non-scholarship players) can still earn playing time and scholarships later. With Roster sizes Capping at 105 and all players being eligible for scholarships, their is a cloud over the future of walk-ons in college football.

Division III schools don’t offer athletic scholarships, but they provide academic and merit-based aid to athletes.
March Madness (the NCAA basketball tournament) generates over $1 billion annually, mostly from TV rights.

What Does the NCAA Eligibility Center Do?

Academics Check
- Ensures you meet GPA and core course requirements.
- Reviews your SAT/ACT scores (if required).
- Confirms you completed 16 core courses in high school (for Division I/Division II).
Amateurism Check
- Checks if you played on professional teams or accepted money for sports.
Clears You for College Sports
- You must be “certified” by the NCAA before playing in college.

How to Register for the NCAA Eligibility Center?

Go to web3.ncaa.org/ecwr3/ and create an account.
Choose “Certification Account” if you want to play Division I or Division II. (Division III athletes don’t need to register.)
Send your high school transcripts and test scores (if needed).
Complete the amateurism questionnaire.
Pay the fee (there are waivers).

Key NCAA Eligibility Rules for Division I/Division II

2.3 GPA (Division I) / 2.2 GPA (Division II) in core courses.
16 Core Courses Completed (including Math, English, Science, and other required subjects).
SAT/ACT test scores match GPA on the NCAA sliding scale.
Graduate high school and request final certification before enrolling in college.

Pro Tip: Start the process early (sophomore or junior year) to avoid last-minute eligibility issues!

NIL 101

Empowering Athletes & Parents in the NIL Era

The landscape of college sports is evolving, and In The Now Sports is here to help athletes and parents navigate the complexities of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. From securing endorsements to ensuring compliance, we offer trusted guidance to help you make informed, confident decisions.

The NIL Landscape: What You Need to Know

NIL rights allow student-athletes to profit from their personal brand through endorsements, sponsorships, merchandise, and appearances. However, with new opportunities come challenges, including contract negotiations, legal considerations, and NCAA regulations.

Why NIL Matters

Financial Growth – Athletes can earn income while playing at the collegiate level.
Brand Development – A strong personal brand creates opportunities beyond college sports.
Navigating the Legal Side – Understanding contracts and compliance ensures long-term success.

For Athletes

For Athletes: From offer to $$$

Building Your Brand – Learn how to create a strong personal brand that attracts sponsorships and opportunities.
Understanding NIL Contracts – Know your rights, key contract terms, and how to negotiate deals that protect your interests.
Social Media & Marketing – Strategies to grow your presence and increase NIL value through digital platforms.
Balancing Academics & NIL – Tips on managing time effectively while pursuing NIL opportunities.

For Parents

For Parents: How You Can Support Your Athlete

Navigating Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) can be complex, but parents play a vital role. Our parent-focused resources help you:

Understand NIL Contracts & Finances – Gain insight into agreements, taxes, and long-term financial planning.
Help Your Athlete Build a Strong Brand – Support them in creating an authentic and marketable identity.
Connect with Trusted Experts – Access legal and financial professionals for informed decision-making.
Guidance on NIL Decisions – Learn how to help your student-athlete make smart choices.
Legal & Compliance Essentials – Stay informed on NCAA rules, state laws, and regulatory requirements.
Financial Planning Insights – Manage NIL income wisely and prepare for the future.
Spotting Red Flags – Identify and avoid predatory deals that could impact your athlete’s career.

When to Seek Representation

Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions an athlete can make, and NIL opportunities have added another layer of complexity. Seeking representation at the right time can make all the difference in maximizing opportunities while protecting long-term eligibility and financial well-being.

Before Committing to a School – Understanding NIL potential at different programs can influence your decision. Representation can help evaluate the marketability of different schools and their NIL resources.
During Recruitment Conversations – Athletes engaging with colleges should have guidance on the types of NIL deals available and how to negotiate fair opportunities.
Before Signing an NIL Deal – Many schools have collectives and NIL opportunities, but not all deals are equal. Having an expert review agreements can prevent bad contracts and compliance issues.
Transitioning to College – The shift from high school to collegiate athletics brings new rules, responsibilities, and financial considerations. A knowledgeable representative ensures athletes stay compliant and capitalize on opportunities without jeopardizing eligibility.

1.Representatives & Attorneys

Pressuring to Sign Quickly – Rushing a contract without full review is a red flag.
Vague or Unclear Contract Terms – Ambiguous language about pay, obligations, and length of commitment can lead to exploitation.
Excessive Fees or Hidden Costs – Standard commissions are usually between 10-20%; anything higher may be predatory.
Conflicts of Interest – Agents pushing specific brands, collectives, or financial advisors without transparency.
No Exit Clause – If the contract doesn’t outline how to terminate the agreement, it may be a trap.

2.Coaches & Schools

Verbal Promises Without Written Proof – If NIL opportunities, scholarships, or playing time are promised but not in writing, they are not guaranteed.
Restrictions on Outside Representation – Some programs may try to limit an athlete’s ability to choose their own agent, lawyer, or marketing team.
Lack of NIL Education & Compliance Support – Schools that do not provide guidance on compliance with NCAA/state regulations may put athletes at risk.
Overpromising NIL Earnings – Be cautious of unrealistic earning expectations without solid partnerships in place.

3.Collectives & Boosters

Pay-for-Play Arrangements – If a collective guarantees NIL money tied directly to playing for a school, it could violate NCAA rules.
Lack of Transparency on Funding – If it’s unclear where NIL money is coming from or how payments are structured, it could lead to financial or tax issues.
No Defined Services in Exchange for Payment – NIL deals should include specific deliverables (e.g., social media posts, appearances) to avoid legal trouble.
Inconsistent or Delayed Payments – If payments are not timely or structured properly, it could indicate financial instability.
Pressure to Stay at a School – Some collectives may try to control an athlete’s decisions regarding transfers or future opportunities.

4.Financial & Contractual Implications

No Independent Legal or Financial Review – Always have an attorney or financial advisor (not connected to the collective or school) review contracts.
Failure to Address Taxes – NIL earnings are taxable, and a lack of planning could result in unexpected tax liabilities.
No Intellectual Property Protection – If the contract does not specify who owns the athlete’s name, image, and likeness rights, the athlete may lose control over their brand.
Long-Term Restrictions or Exclusivity – Watch for agreements that limit future opportunities, especially those that extend beyond college years.
Clawback or Termination Clauses – Some deals may allow brands or collectives to reclaim money if certain conditions aren’t met, which could be risky.

2.Transfer Portal Implications

The NCAA Transfer Portal has completely changed college sports, making it easier for athletes to switch schools. Here are the key implications of the portal for players, teams, and recruiting:

Implications for Athletes

More Freedom – Athletes can now transfer without needing permission from their current school.
Immediate Eligibility (In Most Cases) – Division I athletes get one-time immediate eligibility, meaning they don’t have to sit out a year (unless they transfer multiple times).
Better Opportunities – Players can find schools where they’ll get more playing time, better coaching, or a better fit academically.
More Competition – Entering the portal doesn’t guarantee a new scholarship. Thousands of athletes enter each year, but not all find new teams.
Lost Scholarship – Once in the portal, a school is not required to keep a player’s scholarship.

Implications for Teams & Coaches

Roster Turnover – Coaches now have to constantly recruit their own players to keep them from leaving.
NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) Factor – Some athletes transfer for better NIL deals, creating a mini free agency in college sports.
Less High School Recruiting – Some teams now recruit transfers more than high school players, which affects younger athletes trying to get offers.
Scholarship Management – Coaches must carefully balance incoming freshmen, transfers, and existing players to stay within scholarship limits.

Who Benefits the Most?

Players at Smaller Schools – Athletes at mid-majors or lower Division I schools can transfer up to Power 5 programs.
Backup Players – Players stuck behind starters can transfer and get playing time elsewhere.
Programs Needing Quick Help – Teams can rebuild faster by grabbing experienced transfers instead of waiting for freshmen to develop.

Players Who want a bigger opportunity on the field and financially

Who Gets Hurt the Most?

High School Recruits – Some schools prefer proven college transfers over taking a risk on high school kids.
Loyalty-Based Programs – Schools that focus on long-term player development struggle with high turnover.
Multi-Time Transfers – Athletes who transfer more than once may have to sit out a year unless they get an NCAA waiver.

Fun Facts About the Transfer Portal

Over 2,000 college football players entered the portal in 2023 alone.
Caleb Williams (USC), Joe Burrow (LSU), and Jalen Hurts (Oklahoma) all became stars after transferring.
Some schools lose half their roster to the portal each year!