'Garnet Trust Connect' launches in Columbia, offers NIL deal to every current South Carolina student-athlete
A new and unique NIL initiative was announced on Wednesday by Garnet Trust which will provide an opportunity for compensation and brand building to every currently enrolled and eligible University of South Carolina student-athlete. Over 500 student-athletes participate in intercollegiate sports at the school.
Garnet Trust Connect is a robust directory that contains biographical information, links to name, image, and likeness (NIL) initiatives, charitable causes, plus fan and business engagement opportunities.
Participating student-athletes that opt into the agreement will be offered compensation for rights to their name, image, and likeness to promote the program.
Those athletes will also be given the option to become ambassadors, giving student-athletes commission earnings based on tracked membership referrals.
“This is a truly unique initiative in the name, image, and likeness space,” said Brian Shoemaker, the founder of Garnet Trust. “It’s a way for every current USC student-athlete to not only capitalize on NIL, but to build their brands. And it’s a simple way for fans to connect with and get closer to USC athletes.”
“I encourage all hardcore fans to join Garnet Trust, if financially able,” said South Carolina football athlete Dakereon Joyner in the release announcing the launch of Connect. “Just as important, share with other fans using social media, message boards, and email. Tell everyone about this great organization.”
“Garnet Trust has been the best thing for me since NIL began,” added running back MarShawn Lloyd. “Garnet Trust and its members have been a game changer in the lives of athletes.”
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NIL deals offered by Garnet Trust are entirely funded from fan memberships and business sponsorships. The organization launched last November and has signed numerous South Carolina student-athletes – such as Spencer Rattler, Jaheim Bell, Andrew Eyster, and Will Sanders – to multi-month content and/or endorsement deals.
Female standouts Cat Barry, Camryn Dixon, and Hanna Barton have performed sponsored interviews and are already listed in Connect. Many Gamecock Student-athletes have also taken part in charitable events through Garnet Trust Gives events, such as a trip to Riverbanks Zoo with the local Boys and Girls club and a Christmas shopping spree for underprivileged children.
“Garnet Trust is for all serious Gamecock fans,” Shoemaker said. “You can become a supporter by purchasing a membership. And you can become an advocate by telling other serious Gamecock fans.”
The organization plans to continually add features to Connect that streamline the NIL engagement process between fans and athletes. Current and eligible South Carolina athletes interested in joining the program can email [email protected].
