FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Fairfield University Athletics announces a unique partnership with YOKE, a cutting-edge fan engagement platform for intercollegiate athletics programs. Through this department-wide partnership, Fairfield Athletics will empower the Stags' 20 varsity programs and more than 500 student-athletes to maximize their name, image, and likeness (NIL) potential through building community. Stags' fans will gain access to FairfieldNILClub.com, an online community that will allow fans to support and engage with their favorite teams. Fairfield University is the first Division I institution to launch an official department-wide partnership with YOKE.

"We are thrilled to partner with YOKE as we continue to enhance the necessary infrastructure to provide NIL opportunities for our student-athletes," shared Fairfield Vice President for Athletics Paul Schlickmann. "After an extensive review of different platforms in the NIL space, it became clear that YOKE provides a unique and versatile platform that will be a valuable resource for our student-athletes.  The YOKE platform and process is of great appeal in the young but ever evolving NIL landscape because it aligns with our University and departmental values while also adhering to the original intent and spirit of NIL legislation."

Through the Fairfield NIL Club, a web and mobile app-enabled community, Stags' enthusiasts can subscribe to and join the ultimate fan experience. Members will gain access to student-athlete-generated content, an online message board, and digital events with student-athletes.
In 2021, the NCAA approved legislation that allows student-athletes to monetize their NIL through fan and brand engagement. This new opportunity for college athletes is exciting but uncharted, and determining the best ways to connect with a fanbase presents challenges. That's where YOKE comes in. The software, free for student-athletes, provides a suite of turnkey tools that enables teams to work together and maximize their NIL earnings in a sustainable and compliant manner.

"We're excited to partner with Fairfield Athletics to enable all of their student-athletes to build a community with fans using modern technology," said Mick Assaf, CEO of YOKE. "Making cutting-edge creator software accessible to every student-athlete reinforces the Stags' commitment to the success of their 20 varsity programs in the NIL era."
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About YOKE
YOKE provides next-generation fan engagement technology. YOKE's turnkey software enables athletic departments to empower their student-athletes to engage with fans and maximize their name, image, and likeness (NIL) alongside their teammates. For student-athletes, YOKE simplifies the process of launching and maintaining an online community while also handling automated payments and reporting for tax purposes. For more information about YOKE, visit yoketeam.com.