Academy Sports + Outdoors has signed Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith as a spokesperson. Academy will feature Smith in a comprehensive multi-media campaign in
2011 that will incorporate academy.com, social media networks, Academy
stores and promotional events.
“I'm excited to partner with one of the leading sporting goods and outdoor retailers in the country,” says Smith. “This just seems like a natural fit. I'm looking forward to a long-time relationship with them.”
Smith is the NFL's all-time leading rusher who maintained a high level of excellence throughout his 14 seasons.
“Not only is Emmitt Smith synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys, but he also transcends football with his larger than life personality and his commitment to family,” says Anita Sehgal, Academy Sports + Outdoors vice president of marketing. “We feel that Emmitt will be a great ambassador for Academy Sports + Outdoors, and we can't wait to launch our strategic marketing efforts with him.”
Smith's first official event as ambassador for Academy Sports + Outdoors will be at the Emmitt Smith Tailgate Celebration on Friday, February 4 from 4-8 p.m. at our location in Arlington. This event consists of a Town Hall Q&A session and Meet & Greet from 5-6:30 p.m., cooking demonstrations, games, contests and fan interaction.
Emmitt Smith is the NFL's all-time leading rusher (18,355 yards), and was recently inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2010. He also holds the NFL record for career rushing touchdowns (164), and was named to the Pro Bowl eight times. Smith starred at the University of Florida where he set 58 school records, earned All-American honors, and was named the 1989 SEC Player of the Year.
Academy Sports operates 128 stores throughout Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.
