"Collegiate athletics has continuously evolved since its inception, and last week's federal approval of the House settlement represents another crossroad. With this change, universities are now permitted to directly compensate student-athletes for their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) through licensing deals. This marks a dramatic shift and significant departure from the tradition of amateurism that has long defined college sports.
 
Just as the boundaries of the classroom have expanded, so too has our understanding of how students learn. At Bowling Green State University, we have always believed that our arenas, courts, pools, and fields serve as powerful extensions of the classroom – environments where students are supported and empowered to be successful. 
 
We are prepared for this moment to thrive in this new landscape. Over the past two years, we have worked diligently to position Bowling Green to thrive in this new era. As with any change, we will lean into this, serving as an innovative partner to our student-athletes as they elevate and monetize their personal brands, grow their entrepreneurial ventures, and gain the financial literacy necessary for lifelong success.
 
However, we remain rooted in the value of college athletics: the love of the game, the pursuit of excellence, the pride of competing at the highest level and elevating the profile of Bowling Green. We are committed to a student-athlete-centered approach, and we will continue to embrace the holistic role athletics has on our comprehensive university. As regulatory requirements continue to evolve, Bowling Green will adapt and strive for success while staying true to our educational mission to prepare students for meaningful and productive lives and careers well beyond their time in competition.
 
Forward Falcons!"

- Derek van der Merwe, Bowling Green State University Vice President for Athletics Strategy