Håkanson United and Kalis Loyd have joined forces in a unique collaboration aimed at supporting Swedish athletes on their journey to U.S. college sports. This partnership offers tailored guidance on navigating the complexities of college athletics, developing the mental skills required, and leveraging emerging NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities, empowering young talents to build sustainable and successful careers.
Since 2021, U.S. college sports have entered a new chapter. With the introduction of NIL regulations (Name, Image, Likeness) in NCAA, student-athletes are now allowed to profit from their name and personal brand while studying and competing.
For Swedish talents, this means that they can:
- Earn legal income while attending college
- Build a personal brand from day one
- Sign sponsorships and manage contracts, taxes, and endorsements — even before turning pro
But with new opportunities come new challenges. Without the right legal, strategic, and personal guidance, athletes risk entering unfavorable agreements or missing out on long-term potential.
That’s where Håkanson United comes in.
Håkanson United and Kalis Loyd in a unique collaboration
When young athletes leave home to chase their dreams, talent is only part of the equation. They also need guidance from people who’ve walked the path before them.
“At Håkanson United we’ve spent 20 years managing some of Sweden’s top athletes and have experience of the U.S. college system from the parent’s point of view. Now, by teaming up with Kalis Loyd, we add the athlete’s perspective and the mental preparation needed to truly thrive.” says Olle Håkanson, CEO of Håkanson United.
Kalis Loyd, former Swedish national team basketball player, is a celebrated alumna of Lamar University and a Hall of Honour member, recognized for her record-breaking scoring and standout leadership. Her college journey laid the foundation for a successful professional career across Europe, where she played for top teams and gained firsthand experience of all the challenges athletes face.
Now based in the U.S., Kalis has a strong passion for empowering female athletes and works as a mental performance coach, dedicated to helping athletes succeed not only physically, but also mentally by building the emotional resilience needed for long-term growth.
Her unique combination of elite competition experience, deep knowledge of the U.S. college system, and psychological insight makes her a perfect partner in Håkanson United’s mission: to help Swedish athletes not just make it to college — but grow, thrive, and succeed.
“It’s not just about finding a school. It’s about creating the right opportunity. Getting recruited to college is only the beginning. With NIL in the picture, athletes need to think like professionals and make career planning for the whole college period. Not only for one year. We make sure our clients are equipped, both on the court and at the negotiation table,” says Olle Håkanson