On Wednesday, Tracksmith announced a new NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) initiative designed specifically for collegiate track and field and cross country athletes. The Tracksmith Varsity Club aims to help 10 NCAA athletes successfully transition to the professional or post-collegiate ranks with support throughout their college eligibility.
Those selected will have access to a series of perks, including a stipend for Tracksmith gear (apparel, footwear, and accessories), and consideration for product testing. Each athlete will also be given a mentor through Tracksmith’s Amateur Support Program, as well as access to seminars with professional athletes, agents, and coaches.
At the conclusion of the 2024 NCAA season, Varsity Club athletes will take a week-long trip to Europe for racing and training opportunities, with transportation, lodging, and meals included.
In return, athletes are encouraged to wear Tracksmith gear around campus or at practice throughout their seasons (although universities often require student-athletes to wear official team gear at races and team-sanctioned events). In addition, Varsity Club members will collaborate with the brand’s marketing team to create social media posts and other promotional content.
The application process is open to track and field and cross country athletes “competing at the national level,” regardless of NCAA division, although only athletes from the United States are eligible.
The Varsity Club is an extension of Tracksmith’s Amateur Support Program (ASP), which was created to provide “elite amateurs with kit, competition expenses and on-the-ground support at the biggest events on the calendar.”
Perhaps the biggest name to take part in the ASP recently is sprinter Cravont Charleston, who won a USATF outdoor championship in the 100 meters in July, qualifying him for the World Championships. And then there’s five-time Olympian Nick Willis, who has helped shepherd the ASP and works with Tracksmith as the Global Community Manager.
“Our new program is different to what exists out there, as it’s an application-based program, like the ASP, and everyone has a chance to have their application considered,” Willis told Runner’s World over email. “It’s open to all track and field disciplines, and its focus is on athletic development opportunities, and education to prepare for collegiate track. I’m really excited to see this team of athletes head to Europe at the conclusion of the program to train and race, planting the seeds for a track career beyond their NCAA experiences.”
Those interested in participating can complete an application here. Applicants must submit a short video detailing their relationship with the sport, future goals, and how the program could help advance their career. The deadline to apply is September 20 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Theo Kahler is the news editor at Runner’s World. He’s a former all-conference collegiate runner at Winthrop University, and he received his master’s degree in liberal arts studies from Wake Forest University, where he was a member of one of the top distance-running teams in the NCAA. Kahler has reported on the ground at major events such as the Paris Olympics, U.S. Olympic Trials, New York City Marathon, and Boston Marathon. He’s run 14:20 in the 5K, 1:05:36 in the half marathon, and enjoys spotting tracks from the sky on airplanes. (Look for colorful ovals around football fields.)
