As part of its ongoing give-back initiative, Hibbett | City Gear, in partnership with Nike, awarded 103 high schools and more than 2,500 students nationwide with in-kind donations, products, mentoring, and job opportunities valued at over $650,000.

“We are proud at how our grassroots Sole School program has grown and flourished over the past eight years as we remain committed to strengthening our connection with schools in the communities we serve,” said Ben Knighten, SVP of operations at Hibbett, Inc. “We developed the Sole School initiative as a multi-faceted way to make a meaningful impact for student-athletes by not only offering funds but also connecting them with our local leaders to develop a plan for the future.”

In 2023, 103 sponsored Sole Schools received a financial donation on behalf of Hibbett | City Gear and Nike in support of basketball programs in various ways. Sole Schools use the funds for team gear, travel costs, athletic equipment, and other necessities. 

Schools also receive Hibbett | City Gear products and mentoring from local Hibbett and City Gear leadership. Hibbett conducts regular outreach to schools and athletic programs in their local neighborhoods as a community partner.

“Our partnership with Hibbett and being selected as a Sole School has been absolutely amazing. Hibbett has provided us with much-needed support, and we are extremely grateful for all they have done for us here at Warren County High School,” said Victor Hunt Jr., athletic director and head football coach at Warren County High School in Warrenton, NC.

“Being selected as a Sole School means the world to the Freeport High School boys basketball program, and it will have a significant impact on our mission and the lives of the players,” said Coach Jackson, Freeport High School of Freeport, IL. “Hibbett’s commitment to the Boys Basketball program is truly admirable, and we are incredibly thankful for the positive difference they are making in our community.”

“Our Sole School program gives back, creating a generation empowered to make a positive difference, and I love being a leader in a company that gives back to a community that we serve and makes a difference in young athletes lives,” said Sheila Oakley, district sales manager at City Gear.

Photo courtesy Hibbett | City Gear