Coaches build relationships through recruiting, but money is the biggest variable in signing elite players in today's game. FSU has been competitive in the NIL market over the past few years but is not among the top spenders for several reasons.
FSU must find ways to generate more money to entice more elite players to sign with the Noles like in years past. Here are three things that the institution can enact to get people involved and make the choice clearer for recruits
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Corporate Naming Rights To Doak Campbell Stadium and other Venues
This has been an idea that's been thrown around for a while now. However, there must be some corporate entity willing to pay millions to FSU for naming rights, considering how many high-profile games FSU players on TV in all three major sports. An example in the ACC is NC State playing its basketball games at PNC Area (PNC Bank), which pays the Wolfpack 80 million from 2022 through 2042. FSU Athletic Director Michael Alford has talked about using the stadium to host other events outside of FSU football, which would make this another appealing option for businesses.
Exclusive Access To Private Areas
I think FSU already does this for Seminole Boosters and major donors to some degree. However, I'd open this up to anyone who wanted to come and tour places like Doak Campbell Stadium, Football-Only Facility(once completed), Mike Norvell's office, trophy cases, locker rooms, or anywhere fans would have an interest. While on tour, I'd offer pictures with coaches, staff, players, etc.
Spending Time With FSU Legends
This one could be tricky because the former players would have to be willing to do it. They likely wouldn't want to take the time to do it for free, either. However, imagine having a few times throughout the year to meet your favorite Seminoles like Peter Warrick, Charlie Ward, Jamies Winston, Jared Verse, Rashad Greene, Dalvin Cook, Warrick Dunn, JD Drew, Buster Posey, Bob Sura, and countless other FSU legends. They could tie this with touring the facilities and going to dinner to charge a bigger price.
The corporate naming rights would likely be worth millions and I'd imagine FSU could generate a decent amount of money by offering tours of the facilities and other opportunities for fans.