Athletes First Initiative Announces Formation of the Hatters Collective Group
A Name, Image, Likeness, (NIL) Collective Supporting Stetson University Student-Athletes
Lake Mary, FL. – Athletes First Initiative (AFI), a company designed to support Name, Image, & Likeness (NIL) Collectives, announced today the formation of the Hatters Collective Group (HCG). The Hatters Collective Group has been created to provide NIL opportunities for Stetson University student-athletes and is AFI’s first NIL Collective group.
AFI Founder and Stetson Alum, Robert Crews explained the mission of HCG is “to empower Stetson University student athletes to achieve their greatest potential by building and leveraging their personal brand for success.” Crews continues, “we are going to help student-athletes maximize their NIL opportunities the right way, without ever compromising the values of Stetson University and by honoring the legacy of all who have worn the Green and White.”
As a third-party entity not affiliated with the university, the HCG will facilitate relationships between businesses and Stetson student-athletes. In addition, the HCG will provide membership opportunities for program supporters and alumni. Members will be provided with exclusive and unique student athlete engagement opportunities throughout the year.
“Since its creation in July 2021, NIL has greatly impacted the landscape of intercollegiate athletics,” stated Dr. Matt Wilson, AFI’s Executive Director of Collective Development and Operations, “We are excited to help develop the Hatters Collective Group and provide Stetson student-athletes with NIL opportunities. These opportunities will focus on building relationships with businesses and individual members on the local, regional and national level.”
To date, NIL Collectives have primarily been created at the Power 5 and Group of 5 level of intercollegiate athletics. AFI’s mission is to help develop more collectives on the mid-major/lower Division I, Division 2 & Division 3 levels. Wilson goes on to state, “We really believe NIL opportunities exist to significantly impact student-athletes at the mid-major D1, D2 & D3 levels. We are excited to help prepare these student athletes for life after sports through financial opportunities and educational programming.”
For more information:
Dr. Matt Wilson
Executive Director
Hatters Collective Group
601.466.5075
matt@hatterscollectivegroup.com