IOWA CITY, Iowa (October 21, 2024) – A group of University of Iowa Marching Band Musicians have signed a historic “NIL Deal” for the 2024/2025 University School Year. Just like their Student Athlete counterparts, these Student Musicians will be compensated for use of their Name, Image or Likeness for advertising and marketing purposes.
Last year, students in the Hawkeye Marching Band’s Mellophone section gained national attention for the NCAAs first-ever NIL deal for Student Musicians. All 19 of this year’s mellophone players have now signed an NIL deal for a second year with The Brick Kitchen, an independent, family-owned kitchenware store in Independence, Iowa.
“We’re proud to partner again with the University of Iowa Marching Band’s Mellophone section,” explained Shelly Whited, owner of The Brick Kitchen. “This collaboration lets us promote these talented students while they support The Brick Kitchen, creating a win-win for showcasing dedication and teamwork both on the field and in our business.”
Caroline Simons, a Junior Mellophone player and one of the section’s leaders agreed.
“It’s great to be able to have this opportunity twice while I’m in the band. Last year I felt like this NIL deal was about trailblazing and breaking barriers, but now that it’s going into its second year, I feel like it’s allowed us to reach out further to people from both a marketing and band perspective,” Simons said.
According to Ms. Whited, photos and videos of the students will be used in the store’s social media and advertising. Additionally, the students will be posting about the store on their own social media.
“When I first heard about the deal as a senior in high school last year, I was blown away by how impactful it was for a marching band to get this sort of recognition and attention in the media,” added Iowa Freshman Dahlia Garcia. “Along with receiving some financial compensation that supports us as college students, we also get some awesome high-quality kitchenware and cooking gadgets!”
“It’s exciting! It’s such a unique opportunity, especially to work with a local business who cares so deeply about our section and the band,” states mellophone member, Noah Jedlicka.
Shelly Whited pointed out, “They’re all very much invested in our store and very enthusiastic about helping us build awareness of our business. And to be completely honest, it’s just fun working with these talented students!”
The Brick Kitchen is an independently owned gourmet kitchen store which features high quality cookware, bakeware, kitchen cutlery, cooking tools, infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars. The store opened in May of 2021 and are located inside downtown Independence’s iconic King’s Hall, a former opera house built in 1876.
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Media Contact:
Nate Whited
The Brick Kitchen General Manager
319 334 0398 (cell)