Dear Redbird Fans,
 
College athletics is changing faster than ever before, and at Illinois State University, we are committed to navigating the new landscape with transparency, optimism, and unwavering dedication to our student-athletes and supporters like you. 
 
As you may have heard, a recent settlement in the House v. NCAA case has reshaped the financial responsibilities of athletic departments across the country. It will allow schools to directly share revenue with student-athletes for the first time in history. It also provides back damages for use of their name, image, and likeness, to mostly Power 4 University student-athletes. No former Redbird student-athlete will directly benefit from this settlement and ISU will lose approximately $500,000 in NCAA funding every year for 10 years. While this seems unfair, we understand the broader responsibility we share in being a member institution of the NCAA and will adapt appropriately. 
 
We will not be deterred by this financial obligation, but rather motivated. We are entering a pivotal time in Redbird Athletics, one that demands creativity in generating new revenue streams and discipline in managing our expenses. I want you to know that we are prepared, and we're not just adapting – we want to be leaders in this new era!
 
That's why we've made the strategic decision to "opt in" to the new revenue-sharing model. This decision reflects both our commitment to Redbird student-athletes and our confidence in our future.

Here's what this means:

Roster Caps, Not Scholarship Limits: We will now operate under roster caps instead of the traditional scholarship limits. However, a recent decision by the presiding judge allowed us to "grandfather" student-athletes above the roster cap at the discretion of our head coaches. If not for this change, we could have lost 40+ young men and women to meet the new roster caps. These dedicated student-athletes have earned their place as Redbirds, and we're proud to stand by them.
 
Revenue Sharing in the Future: This new model gives us the flexibility to share a portion of athletic revenues directly with our student-athletes. While specifics are still being finalized, this is a significant shift - and one we believe will strengthen our programs in the long run.  However, this comes with a cost, and we will need your help to remain competitive. 
 
Continued NIL Growth: Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) remains an essential part of our success. Now in Year 3 of our Empower the Nest collective, we've seen incredible momentum and support from Redbird Nation. NIL is not going away - it's growing (826% growth in Empower The Nest since its inception) - and we encourage every Redbird fan, business owner, and alum to explore how they can be a part of this movement.
 
In this new era, the bottom line is we need to grow!  If you're wondering how you can get in the game, here are three key opportunities:
 
Buy Season Tickets: Your presence creates atmosphere for our student-athletes and fans. There is incredible excitement this year for our ticketed sports. The expectations are high for Football, Volleyball, Men's Basketball, and Women's Basketball, and we need you there! Call our ticket office today 309-438-8000.
 
Join the Battle Bird Society: This initiative helps us remain competitive and invest in our future, while giving us the fuel to provide vital, flexible support where it's needed most. It was launched on September 1st last year and we've already seen over $200,000 committed to furthering the student-athlete experience. The minimum commitment to join is $5,000 annually. 
 
Embrace NIL: If you would like to support a Redbird student-athlete and help promote a business initiative, let's connect.  This is a win-win that supports our student-athletes and your business goals.
 
This new chapter in college sports is filled with opportunities for innovation. At ISU, we're not just reacting to change - we're embracing it, with a clear vision and a Redbird heart. Thank you for believing in our mission and our student-athletes. Together, let's continue building something special.
 
Go Redbirds!
 
Jeri Beggs
Director of Athletics
Illinois State University