Making a Name for Yourself in College Athletics

The college athletics landscape has changed significantly since 2021, when the NCAA approved legislation allowing student-athletes to profit from their name,image, and likeness (NIL). That legislation opened revenue streams for student-athletes and sponsorship/branding opportunities for companies looking to invest in this space, including professional sports teams.

With college athletic departments offering anywhere from 14 to over 30 sports, hundreds of athletes per school are eligible to earn money off their NIL rights. Overseeing NIL is a growing part of working in college sports, as keeping track of such a high level of potential sponsorship requires organization and personnel.

Today’s guest on the WorkInSports Podcast is Jamaal Walton, University of Washington Senior Associate Athletic Director for Sport Administration and Strategic Initiatives. Walton joined the Huskies’ athletic department in 2021, when NIL legislation was passed, and now oversees its implementation for UW’s student-athletes. He and WorkInSports VP of Content and Engaged Learning Brian Clapp discuss:

• How Walton’s time as class president and football team captain at Virginia Military Institute built the foundation for his career.

• What Walton expected NIL to affect in college sports when it was passed and what the reality of the legislation has been.

• How Walton moved around the country to move up into his position at UW.

• What advice Walton has for someone trying to get into the sports industry.

Enjoy the full episode to learn of Walton’s experience climbing the ladder while working in college sports. Also, subscribe to the WorkInSports Podcast for more sports career advice, and catch additional content on our YouTube channel!