Tennessee's Ashley Jones Inspires Through NIL Deal with On
The University of Tennessee's Ashley Jones has signed a NIL deal with running shoe brand, On. The deal comes as Jones is preparing to hit the track with the Vols in the comings weeks.
Jones's story goes beyond the NIL partnership; it encapsulates the inspiring journey of a committed runner who faced adversity with great perseverance.
At the age of 14, Jones tragically lost her right arm in an ATV accident. Through it all, Jones continued to play sports in high school and ultimately committed to running. She began her college career at High Point University in North Carolina before transferring to Tennessee this past fall.
Jones was one of the leaders of the team during the cross country season. She placed 42nd at the NCAA Cross Country Championships, contributing to Tennessee's impressive sixth place team finish.
Jones posted on Instagram, announcing the partnership with On.
Recently, on the Citius Mag podcast with Chris Chavez, Jones expressed excitement about the recent deal, hoping that her story will inspire others.
"How amazing it is that (my story) can reach people and encourage them and give them a hope that their life has purpose, that their life has meaning, that their story is not over," Jones shared.
"I'm trying to encourage people that life doesn't just happen - you have to buy in and step out and know that there are great plans. I think that's my biggest takeaway," she added.
Jones also described herself as "someone that didn’t have the fastest PRs coming out of high school." She hopes that her success in college will inspire young runners to continue to put in the work.