Western Michigan University Partners with Roy App to Boost Student-Athlete Support

Western Michigan University (WMU) has taken a bold step in the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics by partnering with Roy, Inc., a pioneering Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) mobile app. This collaboration, announced in conjunction with the Broncos Will Reign Collective, aims to revolutionize how fans can support student-athletes directly.

The partnership, facilitated by Bronco Sports Partners and Van Wagner, introduces a novel approach to NIL support. WMU alums and supporters can now download the Roy app on their mobile devices and contribute directly to their favorite student-athletes' NIL initiatives. In return, fans receive exclusive video content, creating a more intimate connection between supporters and athletes.

Cale Johnston, CEO of Roy, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, "This partnership enables fans to get directly involved in NIL by supporting their favorite players. It's more than just financial backing; it's about building a community that rallies behind the team, helping retain top talent, and driving the Broncos to championship victories."

The impact of this partnership extends beyond mere financial support. It represents a shift in how collegiate athletics programs engage with their fan base and support their athletes. By allowing fans to contribute directly to student-athletes, WMU is fostering a stronger sense of community and investment in the success of its athletic programs.

Mitch Zajac, Director of Broncos Will Reign, highlighted the innovative nature of this partnership, noting, "This first-of-a-kind partnership with Roy offers Bronco supporters a new innovative way to connect with and to support their favorite WMU student-athletes." This approach not only benefits current athletes but also serves as a powerful tool for recruiting and retaining top talent.

The timing of this announcement is particularly significant, as it precedes the inaugural Reign Together Day on November 19th. Contributions made through the Roy app during this event will be eligible for membership benefits through the Broncos Will Reign Collective, further incentivizing fan participation.

This partnership comes at a crucial time in collegiate athletics, where NIL deals have become increasingly important in shaping the competitive landscape. By embracing this technology, WMU positions itself at the forefront of this trend, potentially setting a new standard for how universities approach NIL opportunities and fan engagement.

The implications of this partnership extend beyond Western Michigan University. It could serve as a model for other institutions looking to navigate the complex world of NIL while strengthening their connection with supporters. As more universities adopt similar approaches, it could lead to a significant shift in how collegiate athletics are funded and how athletes are supported.

For student-athletes at WMU, this partnership opens up new avenues for support and recognition. It provides them with a platform to build their personal brand and connect with fans in meaningful ways, all while pursuing their athletic and academic goals.

As the collegiate sports landscape continues to evolve, partnerships like the one between WMU, Broncos Will Reign Collective, and Roy, Inc. may become increasingly common. This collaboration not only benefits the university and its athletes but also empowers fans to play a more active role in supporting the teams they love, potentially reshaping the future of collegiate athletics support and engagement.