When I first arrived at Chattanooga in 2021, I couldn’t have imagined the path I’d take.
Not many walk-ons do.
The road has been long, and it’s been tough, but I’ve managed to stay the course and find my place on this team.
And now, I’ve published a book, “The NIL Blueprint: From Underdog to Brand,” to share my journey and help educate others on what I’ve learned in this new era of collegiate sports and NIL.
I want this book to be a source of inspiration for student-athletes who have traveled a similar path or are just getting started on this journey.
Rise to NIL Influencer
I wrote this book because of my teammates and the impact I’ve been fortunate enough to have on them.
They were curious about how I did it and why I did it. And I’m a guy who doesn’t have the most playing time under my belt, so my story is a bit unconventional.
But I remember thinking to myself, if I’m ever in a position to maximize my opportunities, I’m going to do it to the best of my ability.
Two years ago, I was given that opportunity.
Ken Jones from the compliance office needed someone to help him with NIL, and I was recommended for the role. That day changed everything for me.
I took the hard work and dedication I put into practice day in and day out and applied it to this new role.
It’s been a journey filled with valuable lessons, and I’ve been able to share those lessons with my teammates.
In fact, when I first got this role, we went out to every single restaurant in Chattanooga, spoke to their managers, and tried to land deals.
We heard a lot of “nos,” but the first “yes” came from Pro Image Sports, and from that point on, everything fell into place.
I landed a few more deals, and I’m still working on some things in the time I have left.
I tell my teammates all the time how grateful I am that they believed in me and encouraged me to go out every Saturday at 9 a.m. to try and land some deals for us.
And now, I’m sharing that journey in my book.
Staying the Course
If you ask anyone about the 2021 Josh Jones and compare it to the Josh Jones of today, they’ll tell you I’ve changed tremendously.
I used to let my stutter and being a walk-on hold me back, but I’ve learned to put that aside and be confident in myself.
I didn’t want to just build a name for myself. I wanted to make the best impact I could here at Chattanooga.
That’s what keeps me going.
When I look at the roster, I’m probably the last guy from the 2021 class that came in as a freshman. I’m still here, having an impact on this program.
I look back at my roommates when I first got here — they were all walk-ons, but they were gone in two years.
I just had to stay the course.
Being able to have an impact on this roster now is what keeps me going.
I’m grateful to Coach Wright and his staff for keeping me around this long. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.
And I hope that my book can be a source of motivation and inspiration for the next wave of student-athletes.
Be Bold
I’ve taken great pride in writing this book and sharing my story.
I feel that the reason to read my book is to see someone who didn’t give up.
If you’re a parent or fan and your son is dealing with a hard time in college, look at this guy — he stayed the course and didn’t give up.
I hope that my story can inspire others to do the same.
And if you’re thinking about starting this journey, I’d tell you to be bold and have confidence in yourself.
Don’t let anything hold you back.
