Iowa Athletics announced it will join the NCAA House settlement, taking a major step toward sharing revenue directly with student-athletes. The department plans to fully participate at the highest allowable level under the settlement, marking a new era of opportunity for both student-athletes and the athletic program.
“We are eager to embrace the new era of opportunity for Iowa Athletics and are committed to participating at the maximum revenue-sharing level,” said Beth Goetz, Henry B. and Patricia B. Tippie Director of Athletics Chair, in a release. “By expanding our revenue generation opportunities — including the Flight Funds — we are not only enhancing our financial stability but also reinforcing our commitment to the well-being and success of our student-athletes.”
Under the terms of the settlement, Iowa will allocate a portion of its annual revenue to student-athletes in addition to the education, scholarships and support services already provided.
To oversee this effort, the department has established a cap management structure. Marcus Wilson, executive senior associate athletics director for cap management and administration, and Scott Brickman, the department’s general manager for NIL and strategy, will lead the review and approval of all agreements. Mr. Brickman works through a partnership with Altius Sports Partners. In addition, former NFL general manager Scott Pioli, who joined Iowa Athletics last fall in preparation for the new landscape, will continue advising programs.
New revenue streams support student-athlete payments
To further strengthen Iowa Athletics’ financial position and to allow for revenue-sharing, Iowa Athletics is rolling out several new initiatives:
Flight Funds: These new donor-supported charitable funds allow contributions to directly support student-athlete revenue sharing. Flight Funds will back football, men’s and women’s basketball, and men’s wrestling, along with a general support fund. Donations are tax-deductible and count toward athletic ticket priority points, though not I-Club seating or parking, the release stated.
Expanded sponsorships and partnerships: Iowa plans to grow its network of corporate partners to boost sponsorship revenue and expand Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for all athletes. Additional corporate naming rights are also under consideration.
Exclusive fan experiences: The department will work with individual programs to create behind-the-scenes access and events with student-athletes and coaches—experiences designed to deepen fan engagement and generate additional revenue.
Looking Ahead
Athletics officials emphasized the department’s continued focus on academic and athletic excellence. They said the new model ensures Iowa remains competitive in a rapidly evolving collegiate sports landscape.
“We are confident in our ability to position our programs for success as we compete for championships in this new era,” Ms. Goetz said.
