Saluja Law applauds New Balance for its bold and strategic expansion of its Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) roster. By signing five new high school stars, the brand reinforces its commitment to nurturing young talent and reshaping the athletic landscape. Here's a closer look at what this means for the athletes, the sport, and the broader NIL ecosystem.
Meet the Latest New Balance Signings
The five new additions to the New Balance NIL roster are a testament to the brand's focus on excellence and potential:
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Jake Odey Jordan (Archbishop Carroll, MD): At just 16, Jake has already achieved remarkable milestones, including being the reigning New Balance Nationals Indoor and Outdoor 200m champion. With a personal best of 20.55 for 200m and international medals to his name, Jake embodies the future of sprinting.
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Olivia Cieslak (Haverford, PA): A three-time state champion with impressive personal bests of 2:04.77 for 800m and 4:42.72 for 1600m, Olivia's talent is undeniable. Her commitment to Stanford signals her readiness for the next level of competition.
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Josiah Tostenson (Crater High School, OR): Oregon's state champion in the 1500m and 3000m, Josiah's versatility and leadership were key to his team's national championship-winning Distance Medley Relay (DMR) performance. He is set to join the University of Washington.
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Cole Boone (Pulaski County, VA): Cole's sophomore year was nothing short of stellar, with a personal best of 1:49.58 for 800m and a 2:23.68 in the 1000m, ranking him among the top high school runners in history.
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Elyse Wilmes (Father Tolton Regional Catholic, MO): Elyse showcased her clutch performance abilities with a personal best of 2:04.92 to win the New Balance Nationals 800m title. She's headed to Oklahoma State to continue her athletic journey.
A Growing NIL Family
New Balance's latest signings join an already impressive roster of high school athletes, including Olympic gold medalist Quincy Wilson and high school mile record holder Sadie Engelhardt. This roster reflects a diverse array of talent across events and disciplines, creating a vibrant and competitive community of young athletes.
The NIL program doesn't stop at high school. Athletes like Bethany Michalak and Drew Griffith have continued to benefit from New Balance's support as they transition to college, exemplifying the brand's long-term investment in their development.
Legal and Cultural Implications
The NIL era has unlocked unprecedented opportunities for young athletes, but it also comes with challenges, particularly for high school students. Legal frameworks vary across states, and athletes must navigate the complexities of contracts, endorsements, and eligibility rules. Saluja Law advises student-athletes and their families to:
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Understand State-Specific Regulations: Ensure compliance with your state's high school athletic association rules to maintain eligibility.
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Seek Professional Guidance: Legal and financial experts can help athletes negotiate fair contracts and protect their rights.
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Plan for the Long Term: Beyond immediate financial benefits, NIL deals should align with the athlete's career goals and personal values.
Impact on the Athletic Landscape
New Balance's proactive approach to NIL deals is setting a new standard in sports marketing. By supporting athletes at such an early stage, the brand not only fosters loyalty but also helps young stars build their personal brands. This strategy benefits the athletes, who gain financial support and visibility, and the sport, which enjoys increased engagement and representation.
Looking Ahead
With the New Balance Nationals Indoor set for March 13-16, 2025, the spotlight will shine brightly on these young stars. Saluja Law will continue to monitor the evolving NIL landscape, providing insights and support to ensure that athletes can seize these opportunities while navigating their legal and ethical obligations.
For student-athletes and their families seeking guidance on NIL agreements or other legal matters, Saluja Law is here to help. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your journey to success.