BY JEFF CHUDZINSKINorth Country This Week

CANTON -- Four  local athletes are benefiting from a 2021 NCAA policy change that allows college athletes to receive financial benefits for the name, image and likeness (NIL) without losing their amateur status.

The North Country Savings Bank has partnered with Kennedy Wilson and Kennedy Emerson from the St. Lawrence University Women's Hockey team, Will Arquiett from the St. Lawrence University Men's Hockey team, and Carter Rose from the Clarkson University Men's Hockey to be “Brand Ambassadors.”

This sponsorship agreement marks the first major NIL deals for student-athletes at both St. Lawrence University and Clarkson University and is part of North Country Savings Bank’s commitment to supporting local talent and celebrating the hard work, determination, and success these student-athletes have achieved in their careers, officials say.

Carter Rose

Brasher Falls native Carter Rose, who is in his second season with the Golden Knights, was first announced as a brand partner in early December 2024.

The 2023-24 Rookie of the Year is known as a hard-hitting defenseman who has quickly become a crowd favorite at Cheel Arena.

Rose has played in 20 career games thus far, scoring his first career goal against Brown Jan. 20, 2023.

Will Arquiett

St. Lawrence University senior Will Arquiett, another Brasher Falls native, has also signed an agreement with North Country Savings Bank to be a brand ambassador.

The North Country native has played in 70 games so far in his collegiate career, scoring five goals while assisting on five others.

The speedy 5'9" forward attended St. Lawrence Central before entering Northwood School where he was also on the Dean's list.

Kennedy Emerson

NCSB recently announced a third endorsement deal with another North Country native as well, with Kennedy Emerson signing on.

A sophomore defenseman at St. Lawrence University, Emerson is a Potsdam native who appeared in all 39 games during her freshman season at SLU.

Described as a consistent anchor for the team's defense, Emerson blocked 21 shots and notched a goal and an assist in her first season with the Saints.

She attended Potsdam High School prior to her time at St. Lawrence, playing hockey, soccer and lacrosse.

She also played for the Nepean Jr. Wildcats, where she was an assistant captain as well.

Kennedy Wilson

Junior forward Kennedy Wilson was also named as a brand ambassador recently.

The Hannawa Falls native has put up 24 points in 99 career games at St. Lawrence University.

In each of her first two years, Wilson suited up in 39 games.

During her freshman year she picked up two goals and seven assists, including one game winning goal.

The ECAC Hockey All-Academic Team member also blocked 86 shots during her first two seasons.

Exceptional athletes

NCSB officials say the four athletes are "four exceptional local student-athletes who have demonstrated the spirit of North Country pride and dedication."

“Here in the North Country, we value resilience, dedication, and community—qualities embodied by these student-athletes,” said R. Brian Coakley, President & CEO of North Country Savings Bank. “We are thrilled to partner with these talented individuals who not only excel on the ice but also represent the ideals of our community. They inspire us all with their commitment to excellence, and we look forward to supporting them as they continue to pursue their athletic and academic goals.”

What is NIL?

After years of lobbying and multiple lawsuits the NCAA was forced into allowing collegiate athletes to profit from their name, image and likeness through personal brands and endorsements.

The NIL deal allows college athletes to earn money without violating their amateur status.

In addition to promoting the bank through various platforms, the student-athletes will participate in autograph sessions and other initiatives.