Russell Athletic announced the renewal and expansion of its relationship with the Washington State University athletic department, making Russell Athletic the “Official Uniform and Apparel” of Cougar football for another five years. The agreement, which runs through the 2009 season, also gives Russell Athletic the exclusive outfitter status of the Cougars baseball and men's basketball teams. This new agreement extends a relationship that dates back 17 years.
“We are very pleased Russell Athletic is renewing and expanding its relationship with the Cougars. Russell Athletic has been a great partner with WSU for many years and their commitment to expand their involvement is greatly appreciated. I believe Russell Athletic's commitment reflects the success of our sports programs and the interest in those programs,” said Jim Sterk, athletic director for Washington State University. “We are looking forward to continuing and expanding our long relationship with Russell Athletic, without question, one of the leaders in collegiate uniforms and apparel,” he said.
“Russell Athletic is proud to be associated with the Washington State Cougars, and this will extend one of our strongest athletic partnerships,” stated Rod McGeachy, vice president of marketing for Russell Athletic.
“Washington State University plays in a highly competitive conference and through hard work and determination has moved to the top of the Pac 10 and into the national rankings. Over the last two decades, its football team, in particular, has made several great accomplishments in our uniforms, including its 2002 Pac 10 Championship. At Russell Athletic we refer to those players and teams who are willing to put in the extra work to accomplish their goals as 'Russell Material.' And now we are also excited to outfit both the baseball and men's basketball teams in future seasons,” said McGeachy.
The new agreement is estimated to bring over $1 million in value to the university's athletic department. In exchange, Russell Athletic will have additional marketing and promotional rights, which will assist in sales of officially licensed Cougar merchandise.
The partnership also allows Russell Athletic to test new uniform technologies, similar to the Dri-Power(R) Stretch Mesh(TM) uniforms the football team debuted in 2002. The Dri-Power Stretch Mesh jerseys feature a tight-fitting, 100% polyester fabric that wicks moisture away from athletes' bodies, keeping them dry and comfortable for peak performance.
“It's important for us to outfit a variety of high-caliber athletes in Russell Athletic's cutting-edge uniform technologies because that's what has helped us evolve and become such a strong brand since 1902,” McGeachy added.
