News Summary

A class-action lawsuit filed by a former high school football star, Dominik Calhoun, against the California Interscholastic Federation seeks to change regulations limiting high school athletes from profiting off their name, image, and likeness (NIL). The case has sparked debate over athlete compensation and could set a significant precedent if successful. With other states adjusting to NIL rules, the outcome of this lawsuit may have broader implications for student-athletes nationwide.

Pittsburg, California – A Game-Changing Lawsuit in the World of High School Sports

In a bold move that could change the game for student-athletes everywhere, a former high school football star has stepped into the spotlight with a class-action lawsuit aimed at the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). Dominik Calhoun, who is on his way to making waves as a safety for Boise State’s incoming recruiting class, is taking a stand not just for himself but for future generations of athletes facing restrictive regulations.

Calhoun’s Case Breaks New Ground

Calhoun, who graduated from Pittsburg High School in 2025, is challenging the CIF’s current regulations that limit high school athletes from capitalizing on their name, image, and likeness (NIL). These rules have sparked a national conversation, especially after significant litigation against the NCAA, including the well-known Ed O’Bannon case, which paved the way for college athletes to earn money through NIL deals. If successful, Calhoun’s lawsuit could establish a precedent that may reshape NIL policies across the United States.

The Legal Team Steps In

The lawsuit was filed by attorney Yaman Salahi in San Francisco, and it makes the case that corporations are profiting from high school athletes while denying those very athletes the chance to share in the financial rewards. As of Thursday morning, the CIF had not yet responded to the lawsuit, but it’s certainly got everyone’s attention. Other defendants in the case include Spectrum SportsNet LLC and SBLive Sports Inc., showing just how far-reaching the implications of this lawsuit may be.

Navigating the Current CIF Rules

Currently, California does have some provisions regarding NIL outlined in its bylaws. This allows student-athletes under certain conditions to receive payments from third parties. However, endorsements made on school property or while wearing school uniforms are strictly off-limits. Notable athletes like Bronny James and Juju Watkins have already inked NIL deals while still in high school, striking a chord with many aspiring athletes eager to maximize their potential.

Yet the CIF regulations extend beyond sponsorships, even prohibiting payments tied to ticket sales and broadcasting agreements. Calhoun is also taking aim at CIF’s policies that limit student-athletes from transferring between schools for athletic purposes—another layer of restrictions that he claims harms their marketability and overall economic value.

A Broader Look at NIL Across the States

While California is at the forefront of this legal battle, other states are playing catch-up or going in different directions. For instance, Ohio has yet to allow NIL for high school athletes, having rejected a proposal in 2022. However, states like Florida, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky have jumped on the NIL bandwagon, passing their own provisions to support high school athletes. Meanwhile, Texas recently enacted House Bill 126, allowing athletes aged 17 and older to enter into NIL deals, which offers another form of empowerment and financial opportunity.

It’s important to note that Texas maintains a restriction for athletes under 17, who won’t be able to benefit from NIL deals until they enroll in college. Additionally, the House v. NCAA antitrust case is set to further influence the landscape of athlete compensation, which means CIF’s current regulations are under serious scrutiny as they navigate these changing tides.

What Lies Ahead?

With ongoing shifts both at the state and national levels regarding NIL rules for high school athletes, this lawsuit has the potential to create a ripple effect far beyond California. The CIF’s response and the outcome of Calhoun’s case could set a significant precedent or ignite further debates about fairness, competition, and the rights of young athletes. It’s a critical moment in the world of high school sports, as student-athletes like Calhoun pave the way for a future where their hard work can also reward them financially. The sports community will certainly be watching closely as this lawsuit unfolds.

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