Under Armour reached an agreement to become the official outfitter of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, effective July 1, 2016.
As part of the multi-year partnership, Under Armour will provide on-field and training gear for 18 varsity sports. Additionally, Under Armour will outfit members of the department of athletics including coaches and staff. Director of Athletics Mark Ingram said Under Armour recognizes that UAB Athletics is in a unique position to capitalize on its unprecedented support, momentum and opportunity.
“We are excited about this partnership and Under Armour’s significant commitment to support the success of our programs,” Ingram said. “The Department of Athletics worked diligently throughout this process with input from administrators and coaches so our apparel and footwear agreement enhances the world-class experience that our student-athletes deserve.”
“UAB is a welcome addition to our roster of NCAA partners and we look forward to providing the most innovative performance gear for Blazer student-athletes, staff, alumni and fans,” said Sean Sullivan, Under Armour director of sports marketing.
UAB joins the growing Under Armour roster of NCAA partners that includes UCLA, the University of California, Berkeley, University of Wisconsin, University of Notre Dame, Naval Academy Athletic Association, University of Maryland, Texas Tech University, Northwestern University, University of Cincinnati, Boston College, University of Utah, University of South Carolina and Auburn University.
Blazer Head Men’s Basketball Coach Rob Ehsan commented that Under Armour’s style fits the UAB personality. “Under Armour has an edge that I think will resonate with our brand of basketball as well as our overall energy,” he said. “The gear and equipment are top-notch, and Under Armour has shown a commitment to working with us to help UAB Basketball reach our goals.”
Longtime Softball Coach Marla Townsend is excited about Under Armour’s long-term partnership with UAB. “This is a win-win,” she said. “Under Armour believes in UAB and will be a part of our growing momentum. We receive a great variety of quality gear for our teams and a commitment that is evident. This partnership will serve as a great tool in recruiting for all of us.”
UAB Head Football Coach Bill Clark spent time at Under Armour headquarters in Baltimore and was encouraged with what he saw. “Under Armour is the cutting edge and growing, which fits UAB well as we continue to make NCAA Football history,” he said. “It is exciting to collaborate with a company that understands the significance of the return of UAB Football. We know Under Armour sees and supports our vision.”