Mario Iveljic Mario Iveljic

Recent Field Notes


The modern sports landscape is crowded with opinions, highlights, and promises. The following represent some of our recent insights, shared with you to provide clear thinking, grounded perspective, and practical guidance drawn from real experience.

These are not hot takes. They are observations from inside negotiations, scouting rooms, and career-defining moments.

What You’ll Find Here

Career Strategy

Thoughts on timing, progression, and decision-making — and why moving too fast often costs more than waiting.

Negotiation & Leverage

How clubs think, why deals stall, and what actually moves conversations forward.

Market Reality

Honest discussions about leagues, pathways, and expectations at different career stages.

NIL & Brand Perspective

How athletes should think about identity, value, and long-term reputation in an evolving NIL environment.

Who This Is For

  • Players trying to understand their next move

  • Parents seeking clarity in a noisy environment

  • Clubs looking for thoughtful representation

  • Partners who value preparation and professionalism

If you’re looking for hype, this isn’t the place.
If you’re looking for clarity, you’re in the right spot.

Good decisions compound. Bad ones echo.

INSIGHT #1

Why Most Players Move Too Early

One of the most common mistakes in modern soccer is moving too soon.

In a game driven by highlights, social media buzz, and constant chatter, players are often made to feel that momentum must be acted on immediately. Interest becomes urgency. Opportunity becomes pressure. And patience is framed as risk.

In reality, timing is leverage.

A move that happens six months too early can limit minutes, stall development, or lock a player into a contract that restricts future growth. Clubs sign players for different reasons at different times — depth, competition, long-term planning — and not all interest carries the same value.

Moving early often feels proactive, but it can place a player into an environment they are not yet positioned to win in. Minutes become harder to earn. Confidence erodes. And the narrative shifts from potential to uncertainty.

At Mag Mile Sport, we slow the process down before we speed it up. We evaluate whether a move creates real opportunity or simply satisfies the urge to move. The goal is not to go somewhere — it’s to go somewhere at the right moment, with clarity around role, development, and upside.

Careers don’t stall because players wait. They stall because players move without leverage.

INSIGHT #2

Exposure Without Leverage Is a Trap

Exposure is not a strategy.

In today’s game, players are told constantly that visibility equals opportunity. More games, more showcases, more clips, more followers. While exposure has value, it is often mistaken for leverage — and the two are not the same.

Leverage exists when a club must make a decision. Exposure exists when a club is simply watching.

A player can be seen by dozens of clubs and still have no negotiating power. Without timing, alternatives, and clarity around fit, exposure becomes passive. It creates conversations, not outcomes.

True leverage is built through:

  • Performance at the right moment

  • Optionality across clubs or leagues

  • Contractual positioning

  • Patience and discipline

At Mag Mile Sport, we focus on conversion, not just visibility. That means understanding when exposure matters — and when it doesn’t — and ensuring that attention turns into real opportunity.

Exposure opens the door. Leverage determines whether you walk through it.

INSIGHT #3

What Clubs Actually Care About in a First Contract

Players often believe first contracts are about talent alone. Clubs see it differently.

When clubs evaluate players for an initial professional contract, they are assessing risk as much as upside. Talent gets you noticed, but preparedness determines trust.

Clubs ask questions players rarely hear:

  • Can this player handle the environment?

  • Will he compete daily, even without minutes?

  • Does he understand his role?

  • Will this signing create problems or solve them?

This is why first contracts are rarely about maximum salary. They are about fit, reliability, and projection.

At this stage, clubs want players who:

  • Are coachable

  • Understand structure

  • Show emotional maturity

  • Fit within the roster dynamic

At Mag Mile Sport, we prepare players for these realities. We don’t sell illusions about instant impact. We position players as professionals ready to earn their place — because that is what clubs reward with longevity.

First contracts are not about winning money. They are about earning trust.

INSIGHT #4

Why Silence Can Be a Negotiation Tool

In negotiations, silence is often misunderstood.

Players and families assume that constant follow-up shows interest. In reality, unnecessary communication can weaken leverage, signal uncertainty, and reduce urgency on the other side.

Clubs move when they must. Not when they are reminded.

Strategic silence creates space for decision-making. It forces clarity. It shifts pressure — quietly — back where it belongs.

This does not mean disengagement. It means discipline.

At Mag Mile Sport, we are intentional about when we speak, what we say, and when we wait. Every communication has a purpose. Every pause sends a signal.

Negotiation is not about volume. It is about control.

INSIGHT #5

NIL: Why the Right Deal Beats the Fast Deal

The NIL landscape rewards speed — but punishes impatience.

Many athletes are encouraged to say yes to the first opportunity that arrives. While early NIL deals can be exciting, poorly aligned partnerships often limit long-term value and credibility.

Not every deal is worth doing.

A brand partnership should:

  • Align with the athlete’s identity

  • Support their competitive focus

  • Enhance, not dilute, reputation

  • Leave room for future growth

Short-term money that conflicts with long-term positioning often costs more than it pays.

At Mag Mile Sport, NIL is treated as part of the athlete’s broader career — not a side hustle. We evaluate deals based on fit, timing, and sustainability. Our goal is not volume. It is alignment.

In NIL, as in soccer, the right move compounds. The wrong one lingers.

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Navigating The MLB Draft - What Players And Families Should Know

 


The MLB Draft is one of the most complex entry systems in professional sports. Unlike other leagues, baseball’s draft involves bonus pools, slot values, leverage dynamics, and long-term development considerations that can dramatically impact a player’s career trajectory.

For high school and college players alike, understanding the draft process is critical. Draft position is not just about talent — it is influenced by signability, organizational needs, medical evaluations, and negotiation strategy.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that higher draft rounds always mean better outcomes. In reality, fit matters. A player selected later with a strong development plan, clear opportunity path, and organizational commitment may outperform a higher pick placed in a crowded system.

Players must also weigh professional baseball against college opportunities. NCAA eligibility rules, scholarship considerations, and long-term earning potential all factor into the decision. Once a player signs, eligibility rules change permanently — making informed guidance essential.

An agent’s role during the draft is to:

  • Communicate with MLB organizations on behalf of the player

  • Assess organizational fit and development philosophy

  • Advise on bonus structures and contract language

  • Protect the player’s long-term interests, not just short-term gain

At Mag Mile Sport, we approach the draft as a career decision, not a transaction. Our goal is to place players in environments where they can develop, stay healthy, and maximize their potential — both on and off the field.


Blog 3: NIL and Baseball — Opportunities, Risks, and Smart Strategy

Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities have transformed amateur sports — and baseball is no exception. However, NIL in baseball operates very differently than in football or basketball, and players must approach it carefully.

Unlike revenue-driven college sports, baseball NIL opportunities are often local, regional, and brand-specific. Equipment deals, camps, social media partnerships, and personal appearances are common — but not all opportunities are created equal.

The biggest risk? Poorly structured agreements.
NIL contracts can unintentionally:

  • Violate NCAA or conference rules

  • Conflict with future professional eligibility

  • Limit future endorsement opportunities

  • Create tax and compliance issues

That’s why NIL representation should focus on compliance, clarity, and long-term value, not just quick deals.

A baseball agent’s role in NIL is to:

  • Review and structure agreements properly

  • Ensure compliance with governing rules

  • Protect the player’s brand and future earning potential

  • Coordinate with legal and financial professionals

At Mag Mile Sport, we view NIL as part of a broader career strategy. The goal isn’t just to monetize today — it’s to build a professional foundation that carries forward into college baseball, professional baseball, and beyond.






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Who Should Be On A Baseball Player's Team?


 

Who Should Be on a Baseball Player’s Team?

Understanding Advisors from High School to the Pros

As a baseball player progresses from high school to college and eventually professional baseball, the decisions they face become more complex—and more consequential. Along the way, families often ask an important question:

Who should be helping us, and when?

Should it be an advisor? An NIL agent? A certified baseball agent? A lawyer? The answer is not one-size-fits-all. In reality, a player’s support system should evolve over time, with different advisors playing different roles at different stages.

Understanding these roles—and their limits—is critical to protecting a player’s long-term interests.


The Foundation: The Advisor

For most players, the first and most important advisor may not be a professional at all—it can be a parent, guardian, or trusted family member. It can also be a professional - such as a lawyer or agent, so long as the professional understands what he can and cannot do.

What an advisor does:

  • Acts as the player’s decision filter

  • Helps slow down big decisions

  • Protects the player from pressure and misinformation

  • Coordinates communication between outside advisors

What they don’t do:

  • Negotiate contracts with professional clubs

  • Interpret NCAA or MLB rules at a technical level, unless they have the experience and capability to do so

  • Interface formally with professional organizations

An advisor provides judgment and perspective. This role remains important at every stage of a player’s career, especially when major decisions arise—college commitments, draft opportunities, transfers, or professional contracts.


NIL Advisors and Agents: Branding and Opportunity in College Baseball

With the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), many players are introduced to NIL agents or marketing advisors during late high school or college.

What an NIL advisor does:

  • Identifies endorsement and appearance opportunities

  • Negotiates NIL agreements with colleges and third-parties

  • Helps manage public image and personal branding

  • Coordinates with compliance offices when done properly

What they don’t do:

  • Advise on MLB Draft strategy

  • Negotiate professional baseball contracts

  • Guide player development or organizational fit

NIL can be valuable—but it can also be risky if handled improperly. Poorly structured NIL deals can impact eligibility, draft leverage, or future endorsement opportunities. NIL should support a player’s career, not distract from it.

The key is moderation and compliance. NIL is a tool—not a career plan.


Certified Baseball Agents: When the Game Becomes Professional

Once a player approaches draft eligibility or professional baseball, a certified baseball agent becomes essential.

What a certified baseball agent does:

  • Advises on MLB Draft positioning and signability

  • Negotiates professional contracts

  • Communicates directly with MLB front offices

  • Manages roster-related risks (options, waivers, service time)

  • Develops long-term career strategy

When a baseball agent is needed:

  • Before the MLB Draft

  • Once a player signs professionally

  • When a player is on or approaching the 40-man roster

MLB organizations negotiate contracts every day. Players should not be navigating that process alone. A certified baseball agent is the only professional authorized to represent players in these matters—and the role goes far beyond contract language.


Sports Attorneys: Situational but Critical

Sports attorneys play an important supporting role, particularly in complex situations.

What they help with:

  • Reviewing NIL or professional contracts

  • Addressing eligibility or compliance issues

  • Resolving disputes

Attorneys are excellent risk managers and contract reviewers, and depending on their experience, they can be invaluable day-to-day career managers.


Financial and Tax Advisors: After the Money Arrives

Once a player begins earning meaningful income—through NIL or professional contracts—financial planning becomes essential.

Their role includes:

  • Budgeting and cash-flow planning

  • Tax strategy (especially multi-state income)

  • Long-term financial planning

Financial advisors should be added after income materializes, not before.


A Smart Timeline for Player Support

Early High School

  • Family advisor

  • Coaches and mentors

Late High School / Draft-Eligible

  • Family advisor

  • Baseball agent (advisory capacity)

  • NIL advisor/agent (only if justified)

College Baseball

  • Family advisor

  • NIL advisor/agent (carefully chosen)

  • Baseball agent (advisory → formal)

Professional Baseball

  • Certified baseball agent

  • Family advisor

  • Financial advisor

  • Attorney (as needed)


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Treating NIL agents as career strategists

  • Waiting too long to consult a baseball agent before the draft

  • Letting short-term marketing deals interfere with development

  • Confusing social-media popularity with professional readiness


The Bottom Line

The most successful players aren’t the ones with the most advisors—they’re the ones with the right advisors at the right time.

  • Family advisors provide judgment and protection

  • NIL advisors handle branding and short-term opportunities

  • Certified baseball agents manage long-term professional careers

  • Attorneys and financial advisors protect against risk and mismanagement

At Mag Mile Sport, we believe representation should be strategic, ethical, and player-first—focused on building careers, not just closing deals. Contact us for more information or to see if we can help with your athletic career.

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What A Baseball Agent Really Does - And When You Actually Need One


What a Baseball Agent Really Does — And When You Actually Need One

For many players and families, the role of a baseball agent is misunderstood. Some believe agents are only relevant once a player reaches the Major Leagues. Others think an agent’s sole job is to negotiate contracts. In reality, a baseball agent’s role is far broader — and often most valuable long before a player ever signs professionally.

At its core, a baseball agent is an advocate. The agent’s responsibility is to protect the player’s interests, guide decision-making, and manage risk throughout a player’s career. This includes contract negotiation, but also extends to player development strategy, draft positioning, financial planning coordination, endorsement opportunities, and long-term career planning.

When does a player actually need an agent?
The answer depends on the level of the player and the decisions being made. High school players being evaluated for professional baseball often benefit from guidance well before the MLB Draft. College players navigating eligibility, transfer decisions, or NIL opportunities also face complex rules that require informed advice. International players must navigate cross-border regulations, immigration issues, and unfamiliar professional systems.

An experienced baseball agent understands how organizations evaluate talent, how contracts are structured, and how timing affects leverage. More importantly, a good agent helps players avoid costly mistakes — signing too early, choosing the wrong developmental path, or misunderstanding contractual obligations.

At Mag Mile Sport, our philosophy is simple: representation should be strategic, ethical, and long-term focused. We believe an agent’s job is not just to secure opportunities, but to help players make the right decisions at the right time.

Contact us if you would like to know more about our sports agency and whether we can help you with your athletic career.

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NCAA Agent Rules After House Settlement


If colleges can now pay players directly, can they have agents?

The short answer is, yes. But, college athletes still need to be aware of NCAA rules on agents because there is a difference in "NIL Agents" and "Professional Agents." Before the House Settlement (see our prior blog on this subject), college athletes were not allowed to receive payments directly from their universities. But, now they can. Now, when high school athletes are being recruited, it is not just a matter of what school might be the best fit for them. It is now also a question of, "which school will pay me more?"

This leads to the next question, can high school (or college students) hire agents to help them with these NIL deals that are coming directly from universities? When you read the updated NCAA Bylaws, you will see that the answer is yes, "NIL Agents" can be hired. 

The NCAA Bylaws for 2024-2025 provided the following general rule on the use of agents:

"12.3. Use of Agents. 

12.3.1. General Rule. An individual shall be ineligible for participation in an intercollegiate sport if the individual ever has agreed (orally or in writing) to be represented by an agent for the purpose of marketing athletics ability or reputation in that sport. Further, any agency contract not specifically limited in writing to a sport or particular sports shall be deemed applicable to all sports, and the individual shall be ineligible to participate in any sport."

Note the new NCAA Bylaws for 2025-2026:

"12.3 Use of Agents. 

12.3.1. Professional Sports Agent. An individual shall not agree (orally or in writing) to be represented by a professional sports agent for the purpose of marketing athletics ability or reputation in a sport to secure an opportunity as a professional athlete. An agency contract not specifically limited in writing to a sport or particular sports shall be deemed applicable to all sports."

Notice how the new rules limit athletes from hiring agents to market them "as a professional athlete," meaning marketing them to professional sports teams. This new rule does not limit athletes from hiring agents to help them secure NIL deals. 

The NCAA also clarifies this issue in Bylaw 22.3.1, which provides that an individual "may use professional services, including agent representation, for the purpose of name, image and likeness activities." 

But, be careful when hiring an agent. The agency contract should be limited to securing NIL deals, not contracts with professional clubs. If your "NIL agent" tries to market you professional clubs in order to obtain a professional contract, that NIL agent has now become a "Professional Sports Agent" and the athlete will lose their NCAA eligibility.

For more information on this topic, contact us at Mag Mile Sport via the "Contact Us" page.

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Rising Stars: Recent NIL Signings That Are Turning Heads

 


In the ever-evolving world of college athletics, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals remain one of the most dynamic shifts in recent years. As more brands invest in rising talent, we’re seeing some groundbreaking agreements, even for athletes who haven’t yet played a snap at the collegiate level. Below are a few standout NIL signings that are shaping the future—and offering lessons for athletes, agencies, and brands alike.

🎯 Drew Allar inks deal with Venmo

Penn State quarterback Drew Allar recently became the face of a new Penn State Venmo Debit Card under his latest NIL partnership. This deal is notable because it merges digital finance with collegiate branding—one that fans and students can tangibly use. It also complements his existing agreements (he also signed with Nike earlier in September). For student-athletes, this is a reminder that the right deal doesn’t just pay—it should align with the athlete’s brand, fan base, and utility.

🏈 Felix Ojo’s historic $5.1M NIL contract

Perhaps one of the most talked-about recent NIL deals, Felix Ojo —a five-star offensive tackle recruit—landed a fully guaranteed $5.1 million, 3-year revenue-sharing contract upon committing to Texas Tech. What’s striking is that this deal came before Felix had ever played a college snap. The contract sets a new benchmark for what top recruits can command in today’s NIL landscape. It also underscores an important truth: brands and schools are increasingly willing to invest early in potential, not just past performance.

🥎 NiJaree Canady: Softball’s new marketable ace

Softball star NiJaree Canady signed a $1.2 million NIL deal with Texas Tech and later joined Venmo as a brand ambassador in the Big 12 partnership. For women’s sports and less mainstream sports, such deals are powerful proof that NIL opportunities are broadening beyond football and basketball. Canady’s marketability reflects not just her athletic success, but her growing name recognition and performance consistency.

🏀 Flau’jae Johnson: Beyond basketball, into equity

Women’s basketball standout Flau’jae Johnson has built a diverse NIL portfolio, working with brands like Puma, Meta, JBL, and Taco Bell. In December 2024, she became one of the first college athletes to receive equity in a women’s 3-on-3 basketball league called Unrivaled. Her approach shows that NIL isn’t just about one-time endorsement fees—it’s about creating long-term value and ownership opportunities.

🏀 RJ Davis & JuJu Watkins: Endorsement volume matters

According to a recent SponsorUnited report, RJ Davis (UNC, men’s basketball) and JuJu Watkins (USC, women’s basketball) led all athletes in total NIL deals over the past year—with Davis securing 25 deals and Watkins 20. Their volume of partnerships demonstrates that for many athletes, success in NIL is as much about building many smaller deals as landing a few blockbuster ones. It also hints at the importance of marketing strategy, relationship-building, and consistent visibility.

📌 Key Takeaways for Athletes, Brands & Fans

Invest early in emerging talent. Brands are increasingly willing to back rising stars before they’re household names (e.g. Felix Ojo).                   

Non-traditional sports gain ground. Success stories in softball, women’s basketball, etc. (e.g. NiJaree Canady, Flau’jae Johnson) show broader opportunities.

Equity and long-term value are rising. Some NIL deals now include ownership stakes or league participation, not just cash payments.                              

Volume counts. Athletes like RJ Davis and JuJu Watkins show that many deals (even modest ones) can add up.                               

Brand alignment is key. Deals succeed when they feel natural: financial services, apparel, or consumer brands that resonate with fans.            


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Tips For NIL Athletes Receiving Endorsement Income

Key Things NIL Athletes Should Consider About Their Income


1. Taxes and Record-Keeping

NIL income is taxable — just like a regular job or freelance work.

Athletes often receive Form 1099s (not W-2s), meaning no taxes are withheld.

You may owe federal, state, and sometimes local income taxes.

Keep track of all payments, expenses, and receipts (e.g., equipment, travel for appearances, marketing costs).


2. Estimated Tax Payments

Because taxes aren’t withheld from NIL checks, athletes may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties.

Setting aside 25–35% of each payment in a separate savings account for taxes is a good practice.


3. State-by-State Rules

Taxes and NIL regulations differ by state — especially if athletes earn money in a different state than their school or home residence. Some states require additional filings or have special NIL disclosure rules.


4. Impact on Financial Aid & Scholarships

NIL earnings could affect need-based financial aid packages or certain scholarships.

Athletes should notify their school’s compliance office and financial aid department about their NIL income.


5. Business Formation & Liability Protection

For athletes with significant or recurring deals, forming an LLC or similar entity can help separate personal and business finances, potentially save on taxes, provide liability protection and a more professional image for brands. 


6. Contracts and Compliance

Understand each contract’s deliverables, deadlines, exclusivity, and renewal terms.

Make sure the deal complies with NCAA/conference/school rules and state NIL laws.

Avoid agreements that conflict with school sponsorships (e.g., competing apparel brands).


7. Brand Protection and Long-Term Planning

NIL income isn’t guaranteed every season; it’s smart to budget and save.

Build a personal brand that supports future opportunities — whether in pro sports, media, or another career.

Consider working with a trusted financial adviser or accountant who understands athletes’ needs.


Mag Mile Sport helps athletes stay compliant, save for taxes, negotiate strong contracts, and make smart decisions that protect their eligibility and their future income. Contact us for more info.


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Things NIL Athletes Should Consider When Signing A NIL Deal

 


NIL deals can be very lucrative. However, before signing that deal, make sure you know what you are signing. Here are five key things every NIL athlete should think about before signing an NIL deal:


1. Scope of Rights & Exclusivity

Make sure you understand exactly what you’re giving the company permission to use—your name, image, likeness, social media, appearances, etc. Check for exclusivity clauses that might prevent you from working with other brands in the same industry (for example, one energy drink deal could block future beverage sponsors).

2. Payment Structure & Timing

Confirm how and when you’ll get paid—flat fee, per post, commission, or royalties. Understand whether there are performance requirements (e.g., you only get paid after posting or achieving certain metrics).

3. Duration & Termination Rights

Look closely at how long the contract lasts and if there are automatic renewals. See what happens if you transfer schools, turn pro, or want to end the agreement early.

4. Compliance with NCAA, School, and State Rules

Ensure the deal complies with your school’s NIL policy and any state laws. Avoid contracts that could jeopardize your athletic eligibility or conflict with team sponsors.

5. Taxes & Other Financial Implications

Payments are typically treated as taxable income—be prepared for self-employment taxes and keep good records. Consider setting aside money for taxes and, if possible, talk with an accountant or financial advisor.

As with any contract, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney or someone who is experienced in these types of contracts. The smallest detail can cause the biggest headaches. It is important that you completely understand what you are agreeing to. 

For further information, or for assistance with your NIL deal, reach out to Mag Mile Sport via our Contact Us page.


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The Current State of NIL In College Sports

 


Over the past few years, the NIL landscape has shifted dramatically. What began as interim reforms and state-by-state experiments has evolved into a more structured, legally defined system. Below are the key developments, current rules, challenges, and what to watch for.

What’s Changed

1. Historic Legal Settlement - House v. NCAA, approved June 2025. 

A federal judge approved a $2.8 billion settlement in a class action that resolves several antitrust cases against the NCAA and major conferences. It allows Division I schools to directly pay athletes, using what’s often called revenue-sharing. The cap in 2025-26 is $20.5 million per school, which will increase over time. These payments are in addition to scholarships and existing benefits.

2. Roster Limits & Grandfathering

With the settlement, schools will have to comply with new limits on roster sizes, but existing athletes with eligibility remaining are "grandfathered in", so teams aren’t immediately forced to cut players.

3. Disclosure, Transparency & Oversight

Athletes must disclose NIL deals over a certain threshold (often $600) to their schools. Schools report de-identified data up the chain to help track market trends. Proposed or adopted rules include reviewing NIL deals for “fair market value,” monitoring booster involvement, and ensuring compliance with state and federal law.

4. Role of Schools & NIL Entities

Schools are now permitted more involvement: helping athletes find NIL opportunities, facilitating connections to third parties, and providing support. However, conflicts of interest, booster/collective influence, and ensuring that deals are genuine (not “pay-for-play”) remain areas of scrutiny.

Third-party collectives are still active, but new guidance (e.g. from the College Sports Commission) is clarifying what counts as a “valid business purpose” for collectives paying athletes.


What’s Working / Benefits

*More direct compensation for athletes beyond just NIL endorsements, with institutional revenue sharing now allowed.

*Greater transparency, helping athletes understand their rights and market value.

*Schools can now participate more directly in helping athletes monetize, which can level the playing field (at least somewhat) across less wealthy institutions.


Major Challenges & Concerns

*Equity & Title IX Implications — Ensuring gender equity in how revenue sharing and opportunities are distributed. Schools have to navigate how these large payments interact with Title IX. 

*Regulation of fairness & valuation — What’s “fair market value” can be subjective, especially in smaller sports. There's concern that big programs will dominate.

*State vs Federal / Uniformity — NIL laws are still a patchwork in many places. Federal legislation has been proposed (e.g. SCORE Act) to standardize rules, but nothing fully settled.

*Collectives & Boosters — They provide a lot of opportunities, but also risk of misuse or unfair influence. Rules are still catching up.

*Eligibility & Amateurism Issues — Though payment for name/image/likeness is now allowed, payments tied explicitly to athletic performance or achievement are generally still restricted under NCAA rules. Also, eligibility rules (e.g. from junior colleges) are being challenged.


Where Things Seem to Be Heading

*The caps (starting $20.5M per school) will increase over time.

*More precise rules around oversight and enforcement — we’ll likely see more federal or national-level legislation to provide uniformity.

*Greater involvement of schools in helping athletes manage NIL (education, contracts, disclosures).

*Possible shifts in how athletes are classified (employee vs student) might emerge in court or legislative settings.

*More legal tests around what is allowable in recruiting, transfers, and how NIL deals are structured.


What This Means for Athletes & Institutions

*Athletes can monetize more directly and earlier, with less restriction in many places.

*Institutions need to build compliance, legal and educational support systems around NIL to avoid risks.

*Teams and conferences will have to deal with budget planning around revenue sharing and roster management.

*Brands, collectives, & sponsors will increasingly be major players — but they’ll operate under more regulation.

For more information or to answer any questions, please feel free to reach out to us via our Contact Us page.


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Can High School Athletes Receive NIL Endorsements?

 


With the new dawn of college athletes where college athletes can receive payments directly from their schools, in addition to endorsements from collectives, companies and brands, the question has arisen - can high school athletes receive NIL endorsements?

The short answer is, it depends on where you live.

As of this post, only 5 states prohibit high school athletes from receiving NIL endorsements. Those states are:

Indiana

Ohio

Mississippi

Alabama

Hawaii

In addition, 2 states are currently considering whether to allow high school athletes to receive NIL endorsements:

Michigan

Wyoming 

The rest of the states allow high school athletes to receive NIL endorsements. In Texas, you must be 17 years of age or older.

However, a word of caution. You will need to consult with your state's specific laws on this topic, as there can be specific requirements or parameters that must be met. For instance, in Vermont, NIL monetization is permitted if unaffiliated with teams, schools or the Vermont Principals' Association (which governs high school sports). In South Carolina, NIL deals are permitted if not tied to individual, school or team performance. 

Also, policies are evolving quickly. Always consult your high school athletic director or state association for the most accurate, up-to-date guidance.

If you need further assistance, reach out to Mag Mile Sport at our Contact Us page.

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NIL Deals In College Sports: What Every Athlete Should Know

 




In July 2021, college sports entered a new era: for the first time, student-athletes could earn money from their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). This landmark change means athletes are no longer limited to just scholarships — they can now profit from their personal brand while competing at the college level.


What is an NIL Deal?

An NIL deal is any agreement where a school, company, brand, or organization pays an athlete for the use of their name, image, or likeness. Common examples include:

Endorsements & Sponsorships – promoting products on social media or in person.

Appearances & Events – attending camps, autograph signings, or speaking engagements.

Merchandise & Apparel – launching personal clothing lines or branded gear.

Content Creation – monetizing YouTube channels, podcasts, or other platforms.


Why NIL Matters

NIL gives athletes the ability to:

Earn Money Now – while still in school, athletes can secure deals that reflect their influence and popularity.

Build a Personal Brand – laying the foundation for opportunities beyond college, whether in professional sports, business, or other careers.

Level the Playing Field – NIL is not just for star football and basketball players; athletes in every sport have opportunities if they know how to position themselves.


Where We Come In

At Mag Mile Sport, we help athletes navigate this exciting but complex world:

* Finding the right NIL opportunities that align with your values.

* Negotiating contracts to make sure you are fairly compensated.

* Protecting your eligibility and ensuring compliance with NCAA, conference, and state rules.

* Developing a long-term brand strategy that sets you up for life after college.


NIL is more than a paycheck — it’s a chance to take control of your future.




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What Does The House Settlement Mean For NIL And College Athletes?

 


In 2025, a major lawsuit called the "House case" changed the landscape of college sports forever. The settlement is worth billions of dollars and creates a new system where athletes can finally be compensated more fairly for the value they bring to their schools. A class-action settlement was approved in 2025 and is now being applied in college sports.

Here are the key elements of the House Settlement:

1. Parties & Claims Resolved

The settlement resolves three consolidated federal antitrust lawsuits: House v. NCAA, Carter v. NCAA, and Hubbard v. NCAA. The plaintiffs alleged that NCAA rules restricting student-athletes’ ability to monetize their name, image, likeness (NIL) and share in institutional revenue violated antitrust law. They claimed that the NCAA and power conferences worked together to exploit student athlete labor without legal representation and limit student athlete compensation. In addition, the NCAA's NIL rules and its control of television markets prevented student athletes from profiting on their true market value. 

2. Monetary Damages / Compensation

The Plaintiffs sought back pay for the value of their NIL before Alston (which was prohibited) and revenue relating to the use of the student athletes' likenesses in TV/video games.

The NCAA and Power Five conferences agreed to pay approximately $2.8 billion into a settlement fund over 10 years, on approximately 14,000 claims dating back to 2016. The exact amount that each student-athlete will be paid is yet to be determined. The NCAA is to pay approximately 41% of the total settlement. The Power 5 conferences were to pay 24%, other football conferences were to pay 10%, and the lower D1 and non-football D1 conferences were to pay the rest.

That fund is divided by categories (e.g. compensation for lost third-party NIL opportunities, broadcast/NIL injuries, etc.) and among three classes: football/men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and other sports.

To receive payments, eligible athletes must submit claims.

3. Injunctive Relief & Structural Changes

The settlement doesn’t just provide money — it requires changes to NCAA rules, institutional practices, and NIL oversight:

Direct Institutional Payments / Revenue Sharing

Schools (Division I) that opt in can directly compensate student-athletes from institutional revenues (in addition to their existing scholarships and third-party NIL deals). The initial cap is approximately $21 million per institution for 2025–26; this cap is intended to grow about 4% annually, reaching around $32.9 million by 2034–35.

These direct payments are distinct from third-party NIL deals—schools must stay within the institutional cap while athletes remain free to pursue independent NIL opportunities. Member schools can serve as a "marketing agent" for NIL deals.

Roster Limits (Replacing Scholarship Caps)

Rather than limiting how many scholarships a team may offer, the settlement imposes roster limits (i.e. the maximum number of players on the team) for sports at schools that opt in. Schools may “grandfather” existing athletes (or recruits promised roster spots) so they are not penalized or cut under new roster caps. A school cannot opt in for just one sport.

Rules on NIL / Third-Party Deals & Oversight

NIL deals (particularly those involving boosters or collectives) must be for a “valid business purpose” (defined as "evidence of using the student athlete's NIL to promote a good or service being offered to the public for profit") and at "fair market value," not disguised for recruiting inducements.

Deals worth over $600 must be reported to a new clearinghouse called "NIL Go" (operated under oversight, e.g., Deloitte). 

A new non-NCAA enforcement body, the College Sports Commission, will monitor compliance, enforce rules, adjudicate disputes, and oversee school and institutional payments.

4. Opt-In / Opt-Out & Effect on Institutions

Schools are not automatically bound: they must "opt in" to participate in direct payments and new rules. Those that opt out remain under existing NCAA rules and must navigate evolving state and federal law. Many institutions, especially smaller ones or those with limited revenue, must assess whether direct payments are feasible under revenue constraints. The settlement may conflict with existing state NIL statutes; in some states, laws forbid restrictions on NIL or prohibit institutional enforcement actions—leading to potential legal tension.

5. Unresolved & Contested Issues / Risks

The settlement does not resolve whether student-athletes are employees (or unionize). That remains open and contentious.

Title IX implications: Because male sports (especially football) have traditionally dominated NIL payout pools, questions about gender equity in direct payments and back damages may face challenges under Title IX.

Antitrust challenges remain, e.g. whether the cap on direct payments or restrictions on NIL deals constitute unlawful wage-fixing or restraint of trade.

Enforcement and valuation are complex: The system must fairly assess what deals reflect “market value,” vet boosters/collectives, and ensure compliance. ([morganlewis.com][4])

6. Timeline & Implementation Milestones

The settlement was approved by Judge Claudia Wilken on June 6, 2025.

Direct payments may begin July 1, 2025 for institutions that have opted in.

The NIL Go portal is to launch in mid-June 2025 for deal reporting.

Why the House Settlement Matters for NIL / Athletes

It marks a paradigm shift: for the first time, schools themselves can directly compensate athletes (beyond scholarships), rather than the compensation being limited to third-party NIL deals.

Athletes retain the freedom to pursue independent NIL deals, subject to oversight and report­ing rules. 

The settlement seeks to curb abusive or disguised “pay-for-play” booster deals by imposing rules (valid business purpose, fair valuation, oversight).

It offers retroactive compensation to past student-athletes who were restricted under older NCAA rules. 
However, the new system introduces complexity (valuation, compliance, oversight) and potential legal risk (labor classification, Title IX, antitrust).

There is a potential that many non-revenue generating sports may cease to exist as they are not allocated funding for NIL contracts.

In the end, the House settlement shows that college athletes are now recognized as valuable partners in the business of sports. With schools able to pay directly and NIL deals continuing to expand, there’s more opportunity than ever to build your brand, maximize your earnings, and set yourself up for life after sports.


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The Alston Decision And Its Importance On NIL

 

In NCAA v. Alston, decided in 2021, the United States Supreme Court unanimously held that the NCAA’s restrictions on education-related benefits for student-athletes violated Section 1 of the Sherman Act. The challenged rules limited benefits such as scholarships for graduate or vocational programs, payments for academic tutoring, and paid post-eligibility internships.

Applying the rule of reason, the Supreme Court concluded that while preserving consumer demand for college sports is a legitimate pro-competitive objective, the NCAA’s restraints were more restrictive than necessary to achieve that purpose. The Court affirmed the district court’s injunction, which prohibited the NCAA from enforcing limits on education-related benefits, while leaving intact restrictions on non-education-related compensation.

An interesting part of this opinion is Justice Kavanaugh concurring opinion. While Justice Kavanaugh agreed with the Court’s unanimous opinion, he wrote separately to underscore that the NCAA’s broader compensation rules are also legally suspect. His main points were:

NCAA’s model is problematic: He questioned the legality of the NCAA’s entire system of restricting athlete compensation, noting that “the NCAA’s business model would be flatly illegal in almost any other industry in America.”

No antitrust exemption: He emphasized that the NCAA is not entitled to special treatment under antitrust law simply because it oversees college sports.

Athlete compensation is suppressed: He criticized the NCAA for fixing wages at artificially low levels, while coaches, athletic directors, and conference officials earn millions.

Future litigation likely: While the Court’s holding was limited to education-related benefits, Kavanaugh signaled that broader challenges to the NCAA’s compensation limits could succeed under antitrust principles.

In essence, Justice Kavanaugh's concurrence served as a warning shot - the Court was unanimous on education-related benefits, but he suggested that the entire concept of restricting athlete pay may not survive future antitrust scrutiny. 

The opinion ultimately weakened - significantly - the NCAA's reliance on "amateurism" as an antitrust defense and set the stage for the subsequent suspension of NCAA restrictions on athletes' ability to profit from their name, image and likeness.

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Training Compensation By MLS?

 


In a previous blog, we explained what "Training Compensation" is as per the FIFA regulations. Most simply, Training Compensation is designed to compensate clubs who developed players after that player signs their first professional contract with another club. The scheme is designed to help training clubs function so that when one of their players sign a professional contract, they receive money to help them with their business. 

The FIFA rules for Training Compensation only apply when a player is transferred to another club belong to a different national association...meaning that it only applies to international transfers. The FIFA regulations specifically provide that national associations should provide a system to reward clubs affiliated to the same national association in the investment, training and education of young players. In other words, FIFA recommends that national associations provide a training compensation mechanism for its member clubs.

A few days ago, MLS and MLS NEXT announced the MLS NEXT Development Grant program, which is described as an initiative to recognize the contributions of MLS NEXT Elite Academies (non-MLS Academy programs) in the professional pathway by reinvesting in the youth development ecosystem.

Under this Development Grant Program, compensation is paid to MLS NEXT Elite Academies for certain players that progress through the professional player pathway - from the MLS NEXT Elite Academy to a MLS Club Academy to an MLS first team as a Homegrown Player.

MLS NEXT Elite Academies can only receive this grant in certain situations:

1. The Elite Academy club must currently be playing in MLS NEXT.

2. The Elite Academy club must have registered the player in MLS NEXT immediately before the player moves to an MLS Academy, MLS Next Pro or MLS First Team. If a player has played for multiple MLS Next Elite Academies, only the immediate former MLS Next Elite Academy will be eligible for the Development Grant.

3. The club must satisfy all MLS NEXT regulations and policies when a player moves and registers with an MLS Academy.

There are 3 different mechanisms to receive Development Grant funds:

1. When a player signs a professional contract as a Homegrown Player with the MLS club he moved to from the Elite Academy, the Elite Academy is eligible for a 1 time payment.

2. When the player appears in his 1st, 17th and 34th MLS regular season or postseason match, the Elite Academy will receive funds for each of these 3 appearance milestones.

3. When the player is transferred for a fee from a MLS club to a non-MLS club outside of the USA and Canada, the Elite Academy will receive a percentage of the solidarity payment which MLS would be entitled to receive under FIFA regulations (see our prior Blog explaining what a Solidarity Payment is). The percentage amount is based on the years of development of the player spent with the Elite Academy from the U13-U17 age groups.

While this mechanism is new, we have a few initial thoughts:

1. The Grants only may be provided to MLS Elite Academies. There are many clubs around the country who are not MLS Elite Academies and it's possible that many of the top players from these clubs may now seek to be registered with the Elite Academies instead.

2. The Grants only may be provided to the last Elite Academy the player is registered with prior to being signed by the MLS Academy. Thus, Elite Academies will have a heightened interest in keeping their best players and doing what they can to keep them from signing with other Elite Academies (or allowing them to leave for MLS Academies only) because, if their best player signs with another Elite Academy, they can no longer receive a Development Grant from MLS.

3. The Grants are only provided in limited circumstances relating to certain players. This may not be enough to foster relationships between MLS clubs and non-MLS clubs in the same region. Non-MLS clubs who consistently lose players to MLS clubs may never be compensated for many of the players that leave for MLS clubs. To build better relationships with clubs in their area, MLS may need to consider expanding this program to provide more support for grassroots clubs.

This is a very interesting development and perhaps a step in the right direction. Only time will tell, though. 

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NCAA Rules On Soccer Trials

 


In a previous blog, we explained FIFA's rules for trials as it pertains to players under the age of 18. In addition to FIFA trial rules, the American college player needs to understand what the NCAA allows when it comes to trying out for professional teams, because if a player violates NCAA rules, they may no longer be eligible to play soccer in college. We explain the details here.

The NCAA Division I Bylaws contain a provision titled "Involvement With Professional Teams" (Bylaw 12.2). This provision explains what a soccer player can and cannot do both before and after enrollment in college.

Tryouts Before Enrollment. A soccer player may try out for a professional team before enrolling in college if that player is not reimbursed more than "actual and necessary expenses" to participate in the tryout. The term "actual and ordinary expenses" is frequently used throughout the NCAA regulations, and those expenses generally refer to meals, lodging, apparel, equipment, supplies, coaching, instructions, health insurance, transportation, medical treatment, physical therapy, facility usage, entry fees or other reasonable expenses. If a player is provided more than "actual and necessary expenses" to participate in a tryout, then he or she is no longer eligible to play soccer in college.

During this tryout, the player may participate in practice sessions but they cannot take part in any games or scrimmages as a representative of the professional team.

Tryouts After Enrollment. After a soccer player's initial full-time college enrollment, they may try out or take part in a combine for a professional team even if they have eligibility remaining as a soccer player. However, there are a few key rules that the player must follow in order for he or she to not violate NCAA rules and forfeit their remaining college eligibility:

1. The player cannot miss class. This is perhaps the most important rule, so we have to repeat it. The player cannot miss class.

2. The player cannot receive anything more than "actual and necessary expenses" for the trial or combine.

3. If the club pays for the trial, the trial cannot last longer than 48 hours, with the time starting from the time the individual arrives at the tryout location. At the conclusion of the 48 hour period, the player must depart the location of the tryout immediately in order to receive return transportation expenses. A tryout may extend beyond 48 hours if the individual self-finances additional expenses, including return compensation. 

4. A self-financed tryout may be for any length of time, but the player still cannot miss class.

5. The player cannot take part in any outside competition (games or scrimmages) as a representative of that professional team.

College players with remaining college eligibility who are drafted in the MLS SuperDraft must be especially aware of the rules. When a player is drafted in the MLS SuperDraft, they are not guaranteed to receive a professional contract. They are invited to attend the club's preseason and the decision to offer a professional contract is made at a later time. However, if the drafted player has college eligibility, they have a difficult decision to make: do they attend preseason or stay in school? Because, if the player attends preseason, they will most likely need to miss class and, if they miss class, they cannot play college soccer anymore. 

The NCAA rules can be a bit complex and difficult to understand. However, knowing what an athlete can and cannot do is important to ensure that they do not lose their college eligibility by violating NCAA rules.

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FIFA's Rules On Club Trials For Minors

 


Many children around the world dream of being a professional soccer player. Not surprising, then, when they are offered a "trial" by a professional club, the player may be one step closer to realizing their dream. But, what exactly is a "trial" and what are the rules that apply to trials when it relates to minors? 

FIFA has established a framework for trials for players who are considered minors (meaning a player who has not yet reached the age of 18). The framework is established in FIFA's Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players. Here is what you need to know:

What is a "trial?" A trial is a temporary period during which a player that is not registered with a club is evaluated by that club. The purpose of the trial is for the club to assess, over a short period, the skills and character of the player with a view to potentially registering that player for the club in the future. 

There are 7 general conditions imposed by FIFA for trials:

1. A trial follows from an invitation from a club to a player for a defined period. Indefinite trials are not permitted. A trialist may be amateur or professional.

2. The parties must agree, before the trial, on all the conditions of the trial - like payment for accommodation, travel, meals, daily expenses, etc. Such conditions must be agreed and signed by the club and player on a form provided by FIFA.

3. The club owes the trialist a duty of care - it must cover the cost of necessary medical treatment for injuries sustained while on trial.

4. The maximum duration of a trial for players aged 21 and below is 8 weeks per club per season (can be consecutive weeks or non-consecutive weeks). The trial must be for a definite amount of time. It cannot be open ended. 

5. A player who is on trial is only permitted to participate in friendly matches and any activity that does not fall within the scope of organized soccer (meaning games or tournaments that are officially organized or authorized by FIFA, football confederations of national associations).

6. There can be no payments with respect to trials, whether to the player, current club of a professional or an agent, other than the conditions that were agreed to prior to the trial as reflected on the FIFA form.

7. Clubs are not entitled to receive training compensation for trials. 

For minors, there are a few more rules to know:

1. How old must you be to be able to go on trial? Under FIFA's rule, a minor may only trial with a club if the trial period begins during the season of the minor trialist's 16th birthday (the age is 15 if the trialist and the club are both domiciled in Europe). So, for the minor who lives in the USA, he won't be able to go on trial in Europe until the season of their 16th birthday.

2. The trialist's parents must give the club written permission for the trial, and this written permission must be provided to FIFA.

3. The club must designate a point of contact within the club for the trialist and provide that individual's name to FIFA.

4. The minor must be provided with optimum accommodation and living standards, and their expenses are covered. 

5. For amateur minor players below the age of 16, the trialist's current club must be informed of the trial and provided with a FIFA form for the trial. So, FIFA's rules attempt to prohibit trialists from going on trial without letting their current clubs know about it.

6. A minor trialist can only attend 2 trials per calendar year. So, the minor trialist can be on trial 16 weeks in any one season. 

The concept of a trial is very important in the soccer ecosystem and FIFA has established a set rules governing this issue. It is important that all players, parents and coaches understand these requirements when they are considering a trial with a professional club abroad.

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Understanding The "Transfer Window"




“Transfer windows” – what are they? Why are they so important? Do they apply to all players? With this blog, we hope to provide you with a clear understanding of all there is to know about transfer windows.

 

The term “transfer window” relates to a provision in the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (the FIFA “RSTP”) titled “Registration Periods.” Under Article 6.1 of the RSTP, “players may only be registered during one of the two annual registration periods fixed by the relevant association.” So, in simple terms, players can only be signed by clubs during 2 transfer windows. 

 

Article 6.2 provides that the first transfer window may begin as early as on the first day after the day on which the competition period of the previous season ended, and at the latest on the first day of the new season. This first registration period must be at least 8 weeks long, but no longer than 12 weeks. The second registration period must occur in the middle of the season and must be between 4 and 8 weeks in length. The first and second registration periods, combined, cannot exceed 16 weeks. 

 

Under Article 6.2, “all transfers, whether a national transfer or an international transfer, shall only occur within these registration periods,” subject to certain exceptions which we will discuss later. 

 

So the baseline is that there are two registration periods – a longer period before/at the start of the season, and a shorter period in the middle of the season. Here are some registration periods for different countries:

 

Country

1st Registration Period

2nd Registration Period

USA

1/31/2023 - 4/24/2023

7/5/2023 – 8/2/2023

England

6/14/2023 – 9/1/2023

1/1/2024 – 2/1/2024

France

7/1/2023 – 9/1/2023

1/1/2024 – 2/1/2024

Germany

7/1/2023 – 9/1/2023

1/1/2024 – 2/1/2024

Italy 

7/1/2023 – 9/1/2023

1/2/2024 – 2/1/2024

Netherlands

6/13/2023 – 9/1/2023

1/2/2024 – 2/1/2024

Argentina

6/9/2023 – 8/17/2023

1/25/2024 – 2/21/2024

Saudi Arabia

7/1/2023 – 9/7/2023

1/1/2024 – 1/30/2024

 

So here is how the transfer window (aka “registration period”) works. 

 

·      If Real Madrid wants to transfer one of their contracted players to Manchester United, they can only do so when the transfer window for England is open. It does not matter if the transfer window in Spain is open; the window that needs to be open is the window of the country where the player is going to be transferred, which is England in this example.

 

·      If Manchester United wants to transfer one of their contracted players to Real Madrid, they can only do so when the transfer window for Spain is open. Again, it does not matter if the window in England is open; the window that needs to be open is the window of the country where the player is going to be transferred, which is Spain in this example.

 

The first transfer window is normally longer than the second window, the reason being that the clubs use the first transfer window to prepare for the upcoming season by transferring players in and out of the club. The second window, the shorter window, is normally used by clubs to fill in holes in mid-season – whether that is due to injuries sustained during the first half of the season or under-performance of players during the first half of the season. If a club’s forward gets injured or is not scoring enough goals, for instance, a club may use the second transfer window to look to bring in a new forward.

 

So that is the baseline rule. However, with every rule, there are exceptions. And there are key exceptions that need to be understood – these exceptions (listed in Article 6.3 of the RSTP) allow clubs to “exceptionally register players outside a registration period” in limited circumstances. Here are the key exceptions to know:

 

Exception 1: If a player terminates his contract with a club due to just cause, he may seek to be registered with another club outside a transfer window. The FIFA General Secretariat determines whether to permit or deny the registration on this basis, and the former club does not need to consent to the registration with the new club.

 

Exception 2: This is related to Exception 1. If a club terminates a player contract without just cause, the player may seek to be registered with another club outside a transfer window. The FIFA General Secretariat determines whether to permit or deny the registration on this basis, and the former club does not need to consent to the registration with the new club.

 

Exception 3: If a professional’s contract has naturally expired or has been mutually terminated prior to the end of the transfer window applicable to the engaging (new) club, the player may be registered with the engaging club after the respective transfer window of the engaging club is closed.

 

This last exception is designed to protect unemployed professional players against their being prevented from pursuing their careers and/or earning an income by playing soccer because of the restrictions associated with registration periods. The aim is to ensure that if, for example, a professional player’s contract expires on June 30 and they are unable to find new employment when the registration period is open in July and August, but they eventually manage to find a club that wishes to sign them in September when the registration period is closed, they do not have to wait until the next registration period opens until they can earn an income.

 

Here is how Exception 3 works in practice, using Neymar as an example. A few weeks ago, Neymar was a player at PSG. There were reports that he wished to leave the club and perhaps play in MLS. However, the second (mid-season) transfer window for the USA/MLS expired on August 2, 2023. If Neymar wanted to be transferred to MLS, he would have had to transfer here on or before August 2, 2023. If he wanted to buy out his PSG contract so that he was not contracted to the club anymore, i.e., if the contract was “mutually terminated,” the contract needed to be mutually terminated on or before August 2, 2023 as well. If his contract was mutually terminated on or before August 2, 2023 - prior to the end of the MLS transfer window - he could have been registered with MLS after its transfer window closed on August 2, 2023. However, as we all know, Neymar was transferred to a club in Saudi Arabia before Saudi Arabia’s first transfer window closed on September 7, 2023.

 

According to FIFA, the rationale underlying this exception is that the professional must have sought employment unsuccessfully during a period in which they would normally be allowed to register for a new club. This is clearly emphasized in the wording of the exception, which states that “a professional whose contract has expired prior to the end of a registration period may be registered outside that registration period”. According to FIFA, the reason why an early termination of a professional’s contract by mutual agreement after the end of a registration period (rather than before) does not entitle the player to make use of the exception should be self-evident: applying the exception in these circumstances would render the whole system of registration periods redundant and have a direct impact on the sporting regularity (and integrity) of competitions.

 

FIFA has emphasized, however, that notwithstanding the above, soccer associations are not obliged to register a professional outside of an open registration period, even if the conditions for granting the exception are met, and no club may oblige the member association to which it is affiliated to do so. In practice, there are a variety of reasons for a member association to refuse to register a professional whose contract has expired prior to the end of its registration period outside of that registration period. The primary reason is to protect the sporting regularity (and integrity) of football competitions.

 

Another comment about Exception 3 - the exception explicitly refers to professionals only. Therefore, amateurs cannot register for a new club outside of a registration period, even if they will turn professional after registration. FIFA has explained that this distinction is made to reflect the fact that a professional is assumed to be relying on their earnings from football to make a living. If a professional cannot find new employment, they may struggle to support themselves. On the other hand, an amateur’s livelihood does not depend on income earned from playing football. It may very well be that they rely on income from football at a later date – for example if they are about to turn professional – but as long as they are registered as an amateur, they cannot be said to be making their living from playing football.

 

One final note – as you can see, the USA has a slightly different transfer window schedule than other countries. Their first transfer window is at the beginning of the calendar year while other countries have their second transfer window at the beginning of the calendar year. This is because the MLS schedule is different than most other countries. The MLS season generally runs from March through October of the same calendar year. The season for England, on the other hand, runs from August through May of the following calendar year. 

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CAS Dismisses All Claims By Professional Football Agents Association Related to New FIFA Agent Regulations

 


Today, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) issued an Arbitral Award relating to the new FIFA Agent Regulations which were adopted by FIFA in December of 2022 and to be fully implemented on October 1, 2023. The dispute concerns the legality of the new regulations.

The Professional Football Agents Association (PROFAA) is an association under Swiss law whose mission is to safeguard and promote the interests of global football agents worldwide. It agreed with FIFA to have the CAS assess the new FIFA Agent Regulations with a view to achieving legal clarity prior to the enforcement of the new regulations as of October 1, 2023. 

The PROFAA sought a declaration that:

    1.    Article 15 (Service Fee Cap) violated Swiss competition law by imposing a service fee cap and by differentiating the percentage of the applicable ceiling according to the parties involved without good reason;

    2.    Article 12 (Representation) violated Swiss competition law by limiting the exercise of agent activities to licensed agents, by no longer allowing licensed agents to rely on unlicensed employees or auxiliaries and by allowing dual representation only where it concerns the agent and the hiring club without any justification for such differential treatment;

    3.    Several articles infringed on EU Law. These articles included Article 5.1(c)(i) (related to prior bankruptcy of agents); Article 12, paras. 8-9 (limiting football agent services only to licensed agents) and 12-13 (limiting an agent's right to a commission if a player negotiates his own contract); Article 14 (related to commission payments); Article 15, paras. 2 and 3 (related to the service fee cap); and Article 19 (related to the disclosure of information related to football agents and their representation agreements with players); and 

    4.    The new regulations were incompatible with national regulations.

In its 90-page decision, the CAS ruled in favor of FIFA on all of PROFAA's claims. Some of the interesting notes of the decision include the following:

    1.    FIFA enjoys "technical" and "democratic" legitimacy to regulate football agent services because agents are not simply "peripheral" to the world of football and its organizations as a result of their involvement with representing the interests of clubs and players in the core aspects of the entire football system - the employment and transfer of players.

    2.    It is unlikely that the service fee cap would deprive smaller agencies of being able to earn a reasonable living because they could still earn more for "other services"; those agents could still collect 5%-10% commission for contracts under $200,000, which is precisely the same group of agents that PROFAA argues is most effected by the service fee cap; and these agents might earn more with a 3%-6% service fee cap if representing a player or engaging entity than they would if they received a 10% commission representing the selling entity because the latter commission is a "one-off" commission while the former is earned each year of the individual's contract.

    3.    The service fee cap is proportionate to commissions in other sports like the 3% cap in the NFL and 4% in the NBA and is tailored to prevent the "prima facie excessive" commissions that were earned by agents from 2015 to 2021.

    4.    The new regulations justifiably prohibit unlicensed individuals from performing specifically defined football agent services; however, agents and agencies can still use unlicensed individuals to perform activities that are not "football agent services" - such as secretarial services, scheduling services, assisting with practical arrangements for player relocation. FIFA allows agents to "delegate administrative and other menial tasks to assistants and auxiliaries, while legitimately and proportionately only authorizing football agents to provide football agent services."

    5.    Article 19 (disclosures) does not violate laws cited by the PROFAA in its submissions.

    6.    The new regulations do not violate Swiss law.

    7.    The new regulations are not incompatible with Italian and French law.

    8.    PROFAA's arguments related to MLS - that the regulations violate the CBA between the MLS and the MLSPA - were "unfounded" because the CBA does not address rules and regulations which apply to football agents and does not regulate football agent activity.

FIFA is obviously happy with the result. You can read their reaction here:

https://www.fifa.com/legal/football-regulatory/agents/media-releases/fifa-welcomes-cas-decision-on-fifa-football-agent-regulations.

There are still cases brought on the national-level by agents in several countries, so we will have to see how this decision affects those cases, if at all. There is also a complaint filed with the European Commission in Brussels. So, stay tuned to learn more about this fascinating issue in the world of football.

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Inter Miami (Barcelona) and the MLS Roster Rules

 





Lionel Messi is coming to MLS! 

And, apparently, so are his former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. There has been speculation that other well-known players might be on their way to Miami as well (Sergio Ramos and Eden Hazard, among others). Many have wondered how all these players could come to Miami, given the MLS rules on rosters, salaries, etc.

This blog will hopefully help clarify the MLS roster rules and help you understand how Inter Miami can bring these players to MLS.

Let's start by understanding that MLS Roster. Most simply, up to 30 players are eligible for selection to the game-day squad. Roster slots 1-20 make up the "Senior Roster," and roster slots 21-30 make up the "Supplemental Roster." The salaries of the Senior Roster count against the club's salary budget, which is $5,210,000 for 2023, while the salaries of the Supplemental Roster do not count against the club's Salary Budget.

There are different "categories" of players that may fill up the 30-man roster. Let's start with the "International Player." MLS allocates 233 International Player slots to its 29 teams, meaning each team receives 8 International slots. These slots may be traded by clubs, so clubs may have more than 8 at a given time.

The most well known player category is the "Designated Player." Each club is allowed to acquire up to 3 DP players whose total compensation and acquisition costs exceed the "Maximum Salary Budget Charge" (the budget charge is the amount of salary that counts against the club's salary budget of $5,210,000). The Maximum Salary Budget Charge for a player in 2023 is $651,250, unless the player joins the club after the opening of the 2nd transfer window, in which case his budget charge will be $325,625. The club bears financial responsibility for the compensation due to a DP above that player's Salary Budget Charge. 

Make sense yet? Hopefully so...because there's more to consider...

Then, there's "GAM" and "TAM." GAM stands for "General Allocation Money." Each club receives an annual allotment of GAM; in 2023, that allotment is $1.9M per club. GAM may also be traded by clubs. Clubs can use GAM to reduce a player's Salary Budget Charge by half, or to $150,000, whichever is less. So, if a player's salary budget charge is $300,000, the club can use $150,000 of GAM to reduce the salary budget charge to $150,000. 

TAM stands for "Targeted Allocation Money." Unlike GAM, TAM cannot be traded. Also, clubs are given a little bit more TAM than GAM; in 2023, each club received $2,720,000 in TAM. TAM can be used to sign a new player or re-sign an existing player if his salary is more than the Maximum Salary Budget Charge of $651,250. It can also be used to convert a DP to a non-DP by buying down his Salary Budget Charge at or below the Maximum Salary Budget Charge. If TAM is used up to free a DP slot, the club must simultaneously sign a new DP. A player must earn more than $651,250 to qualify for TAM, and the compensation ceiling for TAM eligible players is $1,651,250 in 2023.  

So, let's look at Inter Miami. They already have 3 DP's, so how can they sign Messi and Busquets to DP slots? They can only trade 1 DP per year, so if they traded one of their DP's, that would leave them with 1 open slot available. Also, they can use TAM to buy down the salary of a DP to a non-DP level, thus freeing up a 2nd DP slot. 

What about Jordi Alba, can Inter Miami sign him as a DP as well? Potentially, but it would be tough. As noted above, MLS has rules in place limiting the transferability of DP's - the main rule being that a club can only transfer 1 DP per year. So, the club would need to be creative. They could buy out another DP and then buy down a third DP's salary using TAM. They could also potentially waive a player based on performance, but that would be difficult given that the waiver is based on performance.

It's most likely that Inter Miami will trade one of its DP's and then buy down the salary of another DP - the lowest salaried DP, player using TAM. This would free up to 2 DP slots for Messi and Busquets. It would be hard for Inter Miami to also sign Jordi Alba to a third DP contract, so the club may need to use TAM sign him. He'd then be an "International Player" and allowed on the Inter Miami roster if the club had an International Player roster available.

Yes, this is somewhat complicated. But, it's exciting and certainly a good time to be a fan of MLS. Stay tuned!





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Mario Iveljic Mario Iveljic

Thoughts On The First FIFA Football Agents' Exam

 



Football associations around the world hosted the first of two annual football agent exams on April 19, 2023. The U.S. Soccer Federation hosted its agent exam in downtown Chicago. 

Although not an official count, there were about 250-300 individuals present for the exam. Tables for three individuals were arranged throughout the testing room, which did not leave much space if you printed out the study materials. I had a 3-ring binder of all the study materials and it was a tight squeeze with the binder and my laptop on the table.

Luckily, the tables each had a AC power adaptor to plug in your laptop. This came in handy as we were asked to be present for the exam at 10:30am CST while the exam was scheduled to start at 11:30am CST..but it didn't actually start until about 12:30pm CST. 

You're able to bring personal materials into the room (like your cell phone) but when it was time to take the test, everything had to be off the table except for your laptop and study materials (and a calculator if you choose to bring one, which I did). So, you won't have to worry about leaving your cell phone in your car or at home in order to take the test.

The exam consisted of 20 multiple choice questions in an open book format. I was able to effectively use my printed study materials and still finished the exam in about 40 minutes, giving me time to review all my answers before the 1 hour time limit. Some of the questions asked for multiple correct answers, which were tricky at times.

My advice for those taking the exam:

1. Study the materials. Even though it is an open book format, you need to read the materials, understand the materials (at least generally) and know where to find the information for the test.

2. Focus on the Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players and the new FIFA Agent Regulations, as  many of the questions were based on those regulations. If you don't know where an answer to a question might be found, it's best to start with these two sets of regulations and then go from there.

3. Use a process of elimination for the multiple choice answers. Some of the answers to the questions are easily wrong, and if you can identify those wrong answers and narrow down the range of correct answers, your odds of getting a correct answer will greatly increase.

4. Don't rush. Try to have a clear head, take your time and use your time to review the study materials if you need to. If you're prepared ahead of time, you should have enough time to complete the test.

Mag Mile Sport wishes all those who took the test last week good luck, and we also wish the best of luck to all those who take the test later this year!

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