Texas Christian University (TCU) is making waves in college athletics. They’ve just rolled out the LEAP Agency, a fresh initiative meant to shake up how Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) gets managed. The goal? Make sure student-athletes get the support they need to thrive—both on the field and off it.
TCU wants to create a more unified, comprehensive approach. With the LEAP Agency, they’re hoping to set a new bar for NIL management and athlete development. It’s ambitious, sure, but maybe that’s what the landscape needs right now.
What is the LEAP Agency?
LEAP is TCU’s answer to the complicated world of NIL. It’s a one-stop shop, designed to give student-athletes everything they need under one roof.
But it’s not just about handling NIL deals. The idea is to build a whole ecosystem that supports athletes during their college years—and maybe even beyond.
Leadership
Leadership is a big part of LEAP. Someone’s got to keep an eye on roster and cap management, right?
This team works closely with coaches and staff, making sure TCU stays in line with NCAA rules while still pushing for that extra competitive edge.
Enterprise
The Enterprise pillar is about finding new ways to bring in NIL revenue. Not just the usual stuff, but creative and maybe even unexpected opportunities.
By thinking outside the box, TCU hopes to boost athletes’ financial well-being and keep their programs strong for the long haul.
Advancement
Advancement is all about helping athletes build their own brands. LEAP offers content support so student-athletes can stand out, get noticed, and maybe even become household names.
It’s a smart move, considering how much personal branding matters these days.
Performance
Performance focuses on building championship teams. That means providing resources for training, development, and even mental health support.
TCU wants their athletes to have what they need to keep winning. It’s not just about talent—it’s about the right support system.
Strategic Partnerships
LEAP doesn’t go it alone. They’ve teamed up with some key partners:
- Learfield via Horned Frog Sports Properties
- Neeley School of Business Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Frog Club
These partnerships let LEAP offer a wide range of services—everything from compliance and revenue generation to content creation and contract help.
Key Personnel
LEAP’s success really comes down to its people. Here are some of the folks making it happen:
- Ryan Peck – Senior Deputy Athletics Director for External Affairs/Revenue Generation
- Greg Featherston – Deputy Athletics Director, Regulatory Affairs
- Alex Yack – Deputy Athletics Director, Development
- Jay Fields – General Manager, Horned Frogs Sports Properties
- Ray Walls – Senior Associate Athletics Director, Student-Athlete Development
- Nick DiMento – Assistant AD for Cap Management and Contract Services
- Ali Hickey – NIL Partnership Solutions Manager, Horned Frogs Sports Properties
- Rodney D’Souza – Executive Director – Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation and Legacy Frogs
- Ryan Jaramillo – Assistant Director of Athletics Creative and NIL Content
- Kat Rogers – NIL and Cap Management Graduate Assistant
A New Era for TCU Athletics
Launching the LEAP Agency feels like a big moment for TCU. Director of Athletics Mike Buddie put it this way: TCU remains committed to fully funding the revenue share limit and with LEAP’s approach to securing above-the-cap funding, we expect to continue our championship level success in the modern-day landscape of collegiate athletics.
Successor to the Flying T Collective
LEAP is taking over from the Flying T Collective, which helped TCU navigate the early years of NIL. Building on that foundation, LEAP looks ready to take things even further.
Conclusion
The launch of the LEAP Agency is a big move for TCU and its student-athletes. By bringing NIL support under one roof and teaming up with strong partners, TCU might just be raising the bar for college sports.
LEAP’s approach gives student-athletes real support, both on and off the field. If you’re curious and want more details, check out the full announcement on the Fort Worth Inc. website.
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