Valiant surpasses $4 million in NIL deals for Michigan athletes, launches donation function
University of Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel sent a letter to the U-M community expressing his support for four NIL collectives, the most notable being the Champions Circle. The collective was created by Valiant Management and a group of boosters.
Valiant has been the market-leading organization servicing Michigan athletes with NIL opportunities. A Valiant representative revealed to TheWolverine.com that it has now surpassed $4 million in deals for Wolverine student-athletes.
Valiant has now launched a “support” page on its website, allowing Michigan supporters to pledge money toward Wolverine athletes. Fans can select which sport they would like their contribution to go to.
“Together we can provide broad support across all varsity athletic teams at the University of Michigan,” the Valiant website reads. “All proceeds received by us from your contributions will go to directly to fund NIL activities for University of Michigan student-athletes.”
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Michigan head football coach Jim Harbaugh has endorsed Valiant.
“Valiant Management Group embodies the core values of our program by providing NIL opportunities for our student athletes that are transformational in nature and not simply transactional,” Harbaugh said, as shown on the Valiant site. “They provide valuable experience to our players to build and monetize their own brand while simultaneously stressing the importance of utilizing NIL opportunities for good. I consider them to be a trusted agent and encourage our Michigan Family to support them in their NIL efforts.”
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Valiant has secured deals for Michigan athletes through group licensing apparel deals with various teams, signing events at The M Den, marketing partnerships with local and national brands, media appearances, signed memorabilia and fundraising and managing the collective.
What is an NIL collective?
“Collectives, which are independent of a university, can serve a variety of purposes,” On3’s Eric Prisbell explained. “Most often, they pool funds from boosters and businesses, help facilitate NIL deals for athletes and also create their own ways for athletes to monetize their brands.”
In addition to Champions Circle, Manuel’s email also expressed support of MGoDAO, Ann Arbor NIL Club and Stadium & Main.
“In keeping with our values and full support of a positive student-athlete experience here at Michigan, we welcome your support of these four organizations and the continued financial support of our partners, fans and supporters in ensuring that Michigan student-athletes continue to be the Leaders and Best!” Manuel wrote.
