WhAT is TIGMA?

TIGMA is devoted to driving revenue for Mountaineer student-athletes and positioning Appalachian State University Athletics to have great success in the next chapter of college athletics. Through TIGMA, the most passionate Mountaineer fans and businesses can engage with Appalachian State University Athletics and its student-athletes like never before and ensure our winning ways continue in Appalachian State University for years to come. By becoming a TIGMA member and/or and partnering with TIGMA to grow your business, you are contributing to the long-term success of Appalachian State University Athletics.
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Board of directors

Jalen Virgil
Jay Howard
Jay Harrill
Jeff Bemer
Kyler Ferguson
Missy Harrill
Pat Swisher
Tim Hodge
Clint Deas

Frequently asked questions

ARE CONTRIBUTIONS TAX DEDUCTIBLE?
TIGMA is not a 501c3 tax exempt entity. As such, contributions to TIGMA are not tax deductible as a charitable donation. A business may direct that payments for the NIL activations by the student athletes be used to promote the business and/or market the business’ products and services. To learn more, contact us at ashley@studentathletenil.com. Under these circumstances a business may be able to deduct these payments and/or payments for a membership to TIGMA as a business expense. Of course, a business seeking a tax deduction for such payments should consult with it’s tax advisor prior to taking any such deduction. Nothing in this communication is intended to constitute legal or tax advice.
HOW CAN I PAUSE, CANCEL, OR CHANGE MY CONTRIBUTION?
Yes, go the Account page for instructions.
ARE THERE ANY LIMITATIONS ON NIL DEALS?
Student-athletes cannot enter into deals that promote alcohol, drugs, pharmaceuticals, political advertising, pornography, gambling or betting, or other opportunities that go against the Appalachian State University values. Additionally, there must be quid-pro-quo between the athlete and an individual or business. TIGMA seeks to create a wide range of NIL opportunities for student-athletes that help them grow as young men and women, while also giving supporters an opportunity to interact with student-athletes in unique ways.
IS TIGMA AFFILIATED WITH THE UNIVERSITY?
No, the collective is not affiliated with the Appalachian State University in any way. It is a third party created to work with Appalachian State University student-athletes.
WHAT HAPPENS IF AN ATHLETE TRANSFERS OR LEAVES APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY?
While the NCAA does not allow NIL agreements to be predicated on a student-athlete’s continued enrollment at a university, our agreements are limited in time and scope to provide protection for contributor funds in situations where a student-athlete transfers.
CAN I REQUEST OPPORTUNITIES TO ENGAGE WITH CERTAIN ATHLETES?
Yes – businesses and individuals can request specific NIL deals with athletes. Contact us at ashley@studentathletenil.com to get started.
WHAT TYPES OF NIL OPPORTUNITIES DOES TIGMA HELP ACTIVATE?
TIGMA offers the Appalachian State University student-athletes near limitless opportunities to engage in NIL activations, including: autograph signings, social media promotions, camps and clinics, charity events, special appearances, commercials, and many more!
ARE CONTRACTS WITH STUDENT-ATHLETES EXCLUSIVE?
No, contracts are not exclusive. We want all student-athletes to thrive under NIL and take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.
ARE ALL STUDENT-ATHLETE OPPORTUNITIES THE SAME?
No, contracts vary based on the specific athlete and the requirements of the contributor and/or activation. Each deal is individually negotiated and agreed upon by the student-athletes. That being said, TIGMA seeks to provide equal opportunities for both male and female student-athletes.
WHAT IF I’M INTERESTED IN GIVING A LARGER CONTRIBUTION?
Individuals and businesses interested in giving larger contributions can do so via the “one-time contribution" link on the membership page, or can contact us directly at ashley@studentathletenil.com to discuss further. Contributions can be specified for specific sports, programs and activations.
CAN I SELECT WHAT SPORT MY CONTRIBUTIONS SUPPORT?
Yes, anyone who is a member of the collective can denote what sport and their respective student-athletes contributions will be earmarked for. Supporters can also contact us directly to set up activations with their favorite student-athlete(s).