University of North Texas

Campaign: Financial Fitness: Foundations of Financial Literacy

Focus Area: Financial Literacy & Life Skills

Overview:

The University of North Texas (UNT) partnered with Law of Athlete to deliver a practical, high-impact financial literacy workshop for more than 70 first-year student-athletes. Led by Deonte Holden, the session addressed a growing need in college athletics—equipping athletes to manage money confidently and intentionally.

The Challenge:

For many athletes, college represents the first time managing stipends, NIL income, and real-world expenses. UNT’s athletic department recognized that without structured financial education, athletes risked falling into preventable financial mistakes.

The Solution:

Law of Athlete’s Financial Fitness Workshop introduced foundational money management skills through interactive, scenario-based learning rather than lectures. Athletes explored budgeting, taxes, saving, and mindful spending through:

Decision-Making Frameworks – Using LOA’s POET (Priority, Options, Essentials, Timing) and POPI (Purpose, Options, Price, Impulse) frameworks.

Simulation Exercises – Working in small groups with fictional budgets to simulate real financial decisions.

Practical Reflection – Distinguishing between needs and wants through guided dialogue and peer feedback.

The Results:

The workshop achieved a 9.8/10 satisfaction rating, with athletes praising the practical relevance and engaging delivery. UNT administrators—including Jessie Gardner, Executive Senior Associate AD—commended the session:

“You brought the heat, Deonte! Appreciate the way you broke down the complexity of the topic in ways that were digestible and applicable.”

The program left student-athletes better equipped to manage their financial futures and reinforced UNT’s dedication to holistic education beyond sport.