Orange fans have new ways to get involved with school's NIL program, which should hopefully help build more winners on campus.
Despite not officially starting in his role as athletic director until July 1, incoming Syracuse athletic director Bryan Blair has already begun to make sweeping changes involving the structure of the athletic department.
One Orange Alliance
On Tuesday, Blair along with coaches from the basketball and football programs, were together at a press conference announcing the formation of the One Orange Alliance. The One Orange Alliance (formerly known as Syracuse Football NIL) will incorporate new ways for fans, alumni and donors to donate money to athletes. As Blair noted in a statement posted to the University's website:
"By aligning third-party NIL efforts for each of our programs under one entity, our teams will be better positioned for success in this transformative era of college athletics. The passion and energy of our Syracuse community is unmatched. Having a true one-team mindset enables our student-athletes to benefit from the full support of Orange Nation. One Orange Alliance will further our student-athletes' NIL opportunities and streamline the process for all of our stakeholders to get involved."
Social media pushback and potential changes
Blair noted in the press conference that:
"We want Syracuse Athletics to be the best it possibly can, and that's not one sport being great and other sports not being great...I'm not dodging the question, but we want to push everybody to consider let's give all for one and one for all."
Although the premise to share across all sports teams seems like a good cause, Orange fans voiced their frustration on social media over how their donated money could be used.
Steve on X said:
"This is a horrendous asterisk to this announcement. If there’s one thing everyone loves when donating money, it’s having no say in how your money gets used"
Blair on Wednesday took to X to share with Orange fans that he heard some of their feedback and some changes could be made.
"Also, we hear the feedback on flexibility for giving. As we move forward, you’ll see additional options and layers for fans, expanded opportunities for businesses of all sizes, and new ways to elevate Syracuse Athletics.
Much more in store!"
Two Deputy Athletic Directors Leaving University
Torrey Ball and Kirsten Elleby are both leaving the University according to Syracuse.com
Ball, a former football player for Syracuse, has been with the University since 2023.
Elleby joined the athletic department in March 2022.
Blair has yet to name potential replacements for these openings.
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