Dear Demon fans and supporters,

Typically, July 1 marks the start of a new fiscal year for Northwestern State athletics.
 
That remains true this year, but the start of the 2025-26 fiscal year comes with it an entrance into the new world of college athletics.
 
The June 6 House vs. NCAA settlement – a landmark $2.8 billion decision -- ushered in a sea of change in college athletics, and Northwestern State has been diligently preparing for this outcome over the last year. The NSU athletic department has OPTED IN to the settlement, which allows for direct revenue sharing and expanded benefits for student-athletes and the opportunity for athletic departments to manage their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) programs.
 
By managing our revenue sharing and NIL operations, we can support our 375-plus student-athletes in a transparent way with the needed structure and control that will enhance the student-athlete experience throughout their time in Natchitoches.
 
We believe this is the time to be proactive with regard to the new structure of college athletics. Opting in to the House settlement is a demonstration of our commitment to our student-athletes in the competitive realm. What they have done on the field, in the classroom and in our community should be celebrated, and this decision allows us to continue the momentum we have built.
 
Our department is grateful for the supportive nature of President James T. Genovese and the alignment of the Northwestern State University administration as we move into this new era of college athletics.
 
Another component of the House settlement is the implementation of roster limits for each sport.  The settlement allows each institution to award scholarships up to the total number of roster sports for each sport.  Northwestern State will maintain its scholarship levels for the upcoming athletic year and will monitor its financial position to allow the department to make prudent decisions for its future.
 
Interested parties may make tax-deductible donations to Northwestern State's Fork 'Em Collective, which manages both revenue sharing and NIL operations for the department. For more information, visit www.NSUDemons.com/forkemcollective.
 
Northwestern State Athletics appreciates the unwavering support of President Genovese, our alumni and donors as we move forward and look to capitalize on the momentum we have built. 
 
As always, Fork 'Em Demons!