July 21, 2006
NORMAL, Ill. -
One of the most recognized symbols in the world, the Nike swoosh, will now be seen on all Illinois State athletic uniforms thanks to a five-year, all-school deal that was approved Friday by the university's board of trustees.
"This agreement with Nike provides an instant upgrade in perception for our department," Director of Athletics Dr. Sheahon Zenger said. "Everyone associated with Illinois State University has always known that the Redbirds compete in major college athletics, but this now helps our image nationally. This agreement also allows us to consolidate our equipment needs, while also providing our department with a consistent look."
Under the contract, Redbird student-athletes will be suited in Nike practice gear, footwear, equipment and uniforms. With the agreement, Illinois State becomes only the second institution in the Missouri Valley Conference to have an all-school deal.
"Obviously we are very excited about the agreement with Illinois State," said Bill Gawne, Nike's regional manager for college promo team sales. "We don't have a lot of schools in that area and Illinois State provides us with a true partnership."
Head football coach Denver Johnson is also looking forward to the partnership.
"This is just one more indication of the advances that our athletic department is making and the positive image that Illinois State is presenting on a national scale," said Johnson. "To be embraced by Nike with a department-wide contract, I think speaks volumes about where our program is going."
Quarterback Luke Drone agrees.
"Nike is the top athletic equipment supplier in the world. This agreement just shows where ISU is now and where it's headed in the future," said Drone. "Sure, having the Nike swoosh on the uniform is going to be cool, but the actual comfort and the fit (of the uniform) for top performance will also be nice."
