DEKALB, Ill. -- Northern Illinois University Athletics has launched the Boneyard Competitive Excellence Fund to further support its student-athletes with a forward-thinking approach designed to strengthen competitiveness, elevate the student-athlete experience, and secure a successful future for Huskie Athletic programs.

With the House vs. NCAA settlement finalized and new parameters implemented in the summer of 2025, revenue sharing and name image and likeness (NIL) are critical components of the evolving collegiate athletics landscape. These national changes expand opportunities to support student-athletes while also increasing the competitive expectations placed on athletics departments across the country. In this dynamic operating environment, NIU remains committed to excellence and to positioning its student-athletes, coaches, and programs for sustained success.  

"The landscape is changing. This is an important moment for Huskie nation," said Frazier. "We must embrace this new era of college athletics and make it work for NIU. Our moves to the Mountain West (football and gymnastics), Horizon, and PAC-12 (wrestling) along with our introduction of new giving opportunities are strategic and will advance NIU Athletics."

The Boneyard Competitive Excellence Fund is a prime example of the change in revenue models, from a traditional third-party NIL collective, to what will now be a partnership between NIU Athletics and the NIU Foundation. Contributions to the fund may be utilized for revenue-sharing opportunities and more, providing critical resources that enhance the overall student-athlete experience in compliance with policies and regulations.  

NIU alumni, fans and friends wishing to contribute to the Boneyard Competitive Excellence Fund, may do so through the Huskie Athletic Fund (HAF). Gifts will earn HAF member benefits, priority points and may be tax deductible. A portion of Huskie Circle gifts will go toward this initiative as well.  

For more information or to contribute to the Boneyard Competitive Excellence Fund, please contact the Huskies Athletic Fund at 815-753-1923 or huskieathleticfund@niu.edu.