The landscape of college athletics has changed dramatically in recent years, giving athletes new opportunities to build their personal brands and partner with major companies.
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Chelsea Suitos, who previously worked for Nike and now helps athletes navigate the world of personal branding and NIL through her company, Players Collxctive.
Chelsea shares how athletes can authentically build their brand on social media and beyond while creating opportunities to partner with high-level companies like Louisville Slugger, Adidas, Reebok, New Balance, Pepsi, and more.
This conversation provides valuable insight for athletes who want to represent themselves professionally while staying true to who they are.
What Authentic Branding Looks Like for Athletes
Chelsea explains that the strongest athlete brands are built on authenticity.
Instead of copying what others are doing online, athletes should focus on sharing their genuine personality, values, and experiences. When athletes present themselves honestly, it creates stronger relationships with both fans and potential brand partners.
Authenticity is what ultimately makes a brand sustainable.
Using Social Media With Purpose
Social media can be a powerful tool when athletes learn how to use it intentionally.
Chelsea discusses how athletes can use their platforms to tell their story, showcase their work ethic, and build connections with the communities that support them. When used strategically, social media can help athletes open doors to opportunities both during and after their playing careers.
Making the Most of NIL Opportunities
With NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities now available to college athletes, understanding how to approach brand partnerships is more important than ever.
Chelsea explains how athletes can identify opportunities that align with their identity and values while building long-term relationships with companies. Rather than chasing quick deals, athletes who focus on authenticity and consistency often create the most meaningful partnerships.
Lessons From Great Leaders
Chelsea also shares leadership lessons she learned from legendary softball coach Mike Candrea and from her father.
Both mentors emphasized the importance of humility, work ethic, and putting people first — lessons that continue to shape Chelsea’s approach to leadership and athlete development today.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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How athletes can build authentic personal brands
Sharing their values and personality. -
How to use social media in a positive and strategic way
Creating meaningful connections with audiences. -
How NIL opportunities work for college athletes
Navigating brand partnerships with intention. -
What major brands look for when working with athletes
Authenticity, professionalism, and consistency. -
Leadership lessons from elite mentors
Why putting people first still matters.
About
Chelsea Suitos
Chelsea Suitos is a former collegiate softball player turned athlete brand strategist who now helps athletes build authentic personal brands and navigate the evolving world of NIL opportunities. After completing her college softball career, Chelsea went on to work for Nike, where she gained valuable experience working with one of the most recognizable sports brands in the world.
She is now the co-founder of Players Collxctive, a company dedicated to helping athletes understand how to represent themselves professionally on social media and beyond. Through her work, Chelsea mentors athletes on how to tell their story, build authentic brands, and create meaningful partnerships with major companies.
Combining her experience as a former athlete with her background in sports marketing, Chelsea is passionate about helping the next generation of athletes take full advantage of the opportunities available to them both during and after their playing careers.
Connect with Chelsea:
Instagram: @csweetoes
