The University of Nebraska Kearney announced  that  Under Armour Inc. will become the official outfitter of Loper Athletics beginning in July. The multi-year agreement gives Under Armour the right to provide on-field and training gear to UNK’s 17 varsity sports. Under Armour also will outfit coaches and members of the athletic department staff.

“After considerable time spent researching team uniform, apparel and footwear vendors for our athletic department, we are excited to announce our new partnership with Under Armour,” said Paul Plinske, director of athletics at UNK. “Not only will the Under Armour brand give us instant credibility with current and prospective student-athletes, but it will help our teams train and compete at the highest level with the best training gear and uniforms on the market.”

“This is an exciting time, and we are proud to call Under Armour the exclusive provider for Loper athletics,” Plinske added.

“In partnership with our licensing agency, Strategic Marketing Affiliates, we will work closely with the Antelope Bookstore, The College Store and other retailers in the state and region to provide our fans with cutting-edge, high-quality apparel,” said Shawn Fairbanks, assistant director of athletics. “This relationship will greatly expand our marketing reach and institutionwide brand.”

The new official outfitter agreement includes marketing entitlements that will complement the brand’s marketing campaigns through print and on-field presence at UNK.

“We look forward to our partnership with Under Armour to outfit our track and field team. Their company’s forward-thinking approach syncs up with the momentum we are gaining within our athletic department. As we strive to compete with the best in the MIAA and in Division II, we appreciate having an ally like Under Armour,” said Brady Bonsall, head track and field coach.