Player empowerment has reshaped college athletics, bringing both exciting opportunities and fresh challenges. At Washington State, the Cougars are navigating this new terrain with renewed focus, determined to stay competitive in the evolving NIL landscape. With the Pac-12 undergoing major changes, WSU is making deliberate moves to secure its future.

For many fans and donors, NIL can feel like uncharted territory. How do you get involved? Where does your contribution make the biggest impact? These are the questions on everyone's mind. To help answer them, we sat down with Nick Garner, the new Director of Playfly and Playfly Max at Washington State. Garner brings firsthand experience from the early days of NIL in Pullman, where he worked closely with student-athletes during a pivotal transition period. Now, as part of Playfly Sports—WSU's new multimedia rights partner—he's perfectly positioned to guide Cougar supporters through this new frontier.

The good news? There are more ways than ever to support student-athletes. The challenge? Choosing the right path. Garner breaks it down into three primary avenues, each offering unique benefits depending on your goals.

1. The Cougar Athletic Fund (CAF): A Time-Tested Foundation
The CAF remains the backbone of WSU Athletics fundraising. While it predates NIL, it's more relevant than ever. Donors can contribute directly to specific programs through "excellence funds," giving coaches the flexibility to allocate resources where they're needed most—whether that's scholarships, program needs, or NIL-related opportunities. For larger contributions, the CAF offers structure, stability, and the added benefit of tax-deductible donations. It's an ideal option for those who trust the coaching staff to deploy resources effectively.

2. Collective Giving: Direct NIL Support
For fans who want their dollars to go straight to player NIL deals, collectives provide a direct pipeline. These organizations pool donations to create opportunities for student-athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness. It's a more targeted approach for those who want to see immediate, tangible results in the form of player endorsements, appearances, or social media partnerships.

3. Business Partnerships: A Win-Win for Local Brands
Local businesses and brands can engage with student-athletes through sponsorship and endorsement deals. This isn't just about charity—it's about smart marketing. By partnering with Cougar athletes, businesses gain authentic visibility while players earn compensation. It's a mutually beneficial relationship that strengthens the connection between the community and the program.

Nick Garner's message is clear: there's no one-size-fits-all approach to NIL giving. Whether you're a lifelong donor, a passionate fan, or a local business owner, there's a way to make your support count. The key is understanding your goals and choosing the avenue that aligns with them. As WSU charts its course in this new era, every contribution—big or small—helps build a stronger, more competitive future for the Cougars.