NSGA NOW - July/August 2025

WINNING TOGETHER

INTERACTIVE WITH INDUSTRY RELATIONSHIPS WISDOM OF MARY KELLY, BEN ZOBRIST THE CONFERENCE THROUGH THE LENS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Watching the Interaction was Entertaining, Exhilirating 6 ASSOCIATION NOW

Jessica Rose-Huggins Joins NSGA Board; Remembering NSGA’s Thomas Doyle, Hall of Famer Don Pfau

INSIGHTS NOW A Deeper Dive into 2024 Participation Data

Dr. Mary Kelly’s Leadership Prescription

Joel Bines and the “MeTail” Revolution

Ben Zobrist Opens Up

12 CONFERENCE NOW

Speed Networking was a big hit once again at the NSGA 2025 Leadership Conference. Check out more photos from this year’s event.

From left, Dan Burke (Burke’s Sport Haven), Dusty Rhodes (PROLOOK) and Tom Gonsiewski (Kampus Klothes) during the interactive Industry Relationships session at the NSGA 2025 Leadership Conference

CEO NOW

People watching can be fascinating and highly thought-provoking. Airports are a great place for observations when you are traveling to industry meetings, trade and buying group shows or hopefully the annual NSGA Leadership Conference.

Your own business — particularly if you are on the retail side — is an excellent opportunity to gain insights into your customer base through observing their behaviors and habits. One of my more enjoyable peoplewatching moments occurred at the NSGA 2025 Leadership Conference on Tuesday morning. The goal of our interactive session, “Everyone Wins: Cultivating Stronger Industry Relationships,” was to facilitate discussions between retailers and dealers with suppliers in a roundtable format. Nick Rigitano, NSGA’s Director of Insights and Analysis, provided an excellent lead by sharing some of the results of the Industry Relationships survey he conducted earlier this year. And then Nick facilitated conversations among attendees to talk about and respond to questions about industry relationships, with instant results posted on the big screens in the room.

You always nervously wonder how things like this will go. Will attendees be engaged and interested in participating? Will they engage with the content? Is the technology piece to the puzzle going to work even after numerous trial runs?

To sit back and watch it unfold was exciting and gratifying, especially since conference attendees have requested conducting more industry roundtable discussions of this nature through the years.

There was a high-volume buzz in the room from the discussions. Participants navigated the technology using their phones to respond to questions with little trouble. The energy and enthusiasm were exactly what we envisioned, and it was nice to have one long-time NSGA member and conference attendee come over and say, “this is awesome.” What we learned during this experiment will be applied to next year’s Leadership Conference.

The conference also featured thought-provoking speakers and panels from leadership expert Dr. Mary Kelly to 2016 World Series MVP Ben Zobrist. The event is also designed for attendees to use the various networking opportunities to talk about issues they are dealing with on a daily basis.

Despite all the challenges, it was nice to see positive overall responses about the current and future state of the industry during Tuesday morning’s interactive session. It reinforces what a fun and dynamic industry this can be when we collaborate and work together at events that include the NSGA Leadership Conference. Combined with the popularity of “Speed Networking,” the instant interactive sessions and unmatched networking opportunities make the NSGA Leadership Conference the “not to be missed event of the year” if you are a current or future leader of the sporting goods industry.

NSGA OFFICERS

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

GORDON GEIGER

Geiger’s, Lakewood, OH

TREASURER/CHAIRMAN-ELECT

BOB FAWLEY

Capitol Varsity Sports, Oxford, OH

PAST CHAIRMAN

PAT DONNELLEY

Twin Falls, ID

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

KEVIN BEZANSON

Cleve’s Source for Sports, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

TROY FREEMAN

Play It Again Sports, Minneapolis, MN

COLE JOHNSON

Johnson-Lambe Sporting Goods

Raleigh, NC

JUSTIN MILLER

Scholastic Sports Sales, Manlius, NY

JESSICA ROSE-HUGGINS

Denver Athletic Supply, Englewood, CO

RON RUGAL

B&R Sporting Goods, Shelby Charter Township, MI

JOHN SCIPIO

SV Sports, Pottstown, PA

NSGA TEAM LEADERS

MATT CARLSON

President & CEO

HAYLEY FANSLER

Director, Business Development

MARTY MACIASZEK

Director, Team Dealer Division, Communications

JULIE PITTS

Director, Public Affairs and President, NSSRA

NICK RIGITANO

Director, Insights and Analysis

JENNIFER SHAFFER

Chief Financial Officer

Best regards,

MATT CARLSON PRESIDENT & CEO

NSGA NOW (ISSN 1045-2087) is published bi-monthly for members of the National Sporting Goods Association, 3041 Woodcreek Drive, Suite 210, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Phone: (847) 296-NSGA (6742). Subscription price of $50 per year is included in membership fee. Non-member subscription information available from publisher. Periodical postage paid at Downers Grove, IL 60515 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NSGA NOW,® 3041 Woodcreek Drive, Suite 210, Downers Grove, IL 60515. © NSGA 2025 all rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

and

ROF Industries has done photography

videography for the NSGA Leadership Conference for nearly a decade.

ASSOCIATION NOW

JESSICA ROSE-HUGGINS

OF DENVER ATHLETIC JOINS NSGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA) made a change to its Board of Directors with the appointment of Jessica Rose-Huggins of Denver Athletic in Englewood, Colorado to the District II board seat. Rose-Huggins started her three-year term on the Board on June 1.

Rose-Huggins is the Chief Operating Officer of Denver Athletic, which was founded in 1985 and is one of the country’s premier team dealers. She has served NSGA the last two years as a member of its Team Dealer Advisory Committee.

“We are thrilled to have Jessica bring her expertise, energy and passion for our industry to the NSGA Board,” said Matt Carlson, NSGA President & CEO.

“Jessica has been instrumental to Denver Athletic’s success and she will be a great addition to the Board.”

Rose-Huggins joined the Denver Athletic team in 1993 and was promoted to COO in 2019. She has held numerous roles in her career at Denver

Athletic, from customer service to IT and purchasing, and has been involved in overseeing all departments from accounting to production.

“Because of great leadership and a great team, I have been able to experience all aspects of our company and learn the business inside and out,” Rose-Huggins said. “It is a great honor to be selected to join the NSGA Board of Directors.

“I am excited for the opportunity to work alongside NSGA and fellow board members to address key challenges and changes facing team dealers and retailers today. I hope to make a meaningful contribution and a positive impact on the industry.”

REMEMBERING THOMAS DOYLE

PROMINENT FIGURE OF NSGA AND SPORTING GOODS INDUSTRY

Thomas B. Doyle, who made a significant impact in numerous areas with the National Sporting Goods Association during his 39-year career in the industry, passed away on April 22. Doyle was 86.

Doyle was NSGA’s Vice President of Information & Research when he retired in the fall of 2010. He was responsible for the growth of NSGA’s research products and its team dealer division and was also president of the National Ski & Snowboard Retailers Association (NSSRA), an independent association managed by NSGA, from its inception in 1987 until 2010.

“Tom Doyle’s passion for the sporting goods industry and his significant contributions to the work we do cannot be overstated,” said Matt Carlson, NSGA President & CEO. “He did so much to build and grow vital areas of NSGA

in research, advocacy, and ski and snowboard membership. He was instrumental in creating the National Ski & Snowboard Retailers Association and its relationship with NSGA.

“I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Tom and to get to know him before he retired after I came to NSGA. On behalf of everyone at NSGA we extend our deepest condolences to all of Tom’s family and friends.”

Doyle started in the industry by working for NSGA’s member magazine, Selling Sporting Goods. Before Doyle’s arrival, NSGA published only limited market research, but in 1980, the first Sporting

Rose-Huggins replaces Mick Montgomery, the President and CEO of Denver Athletic, who served two three-year terms on the Board.

“We appreciate the time and effort Mick gave to help NSGA and the sporting goods industry,” Carlson said. “He was a valuable contributor during some tumultuous and challenging times in the industry, and we extend our thanks for his dedication.”

Goods Market consumer purchases report was published. Doyle launched the publication of NSGA’s Sports Participation reports in 1985 and he built the foundation for a research department that today provides a wide range of products utilized by all areas of the industry.

He also made presentations on the American sporting goods market in Europe and Asia and assisted in the development of Federal studies of the American sporting goods market. Doyle also managed the NSGA Cost of Doing Business Survey for nearly 20 years. NSGA created its Team Dealer Division in 1975 and Doyle was its first managing director until 2006. Doyle’s involvement in the ski and snow sports industry extended beyond NSSRA and he served as membership secretary on an ASTM snow skiing committee that worked on safety related issues. He also served as a member of the Strategy Committee for the President’s Commission on Americans Outdoors.

Doyle also spent a year as the public relations director of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), which represents boat, marine engine and accessory manufacturers. While Doyle was at NMMA he formed the National Marine Bankers Association. Doyle received master’s degrees in management from the Kellogg School of Business at Northwestern University and in philosophy from St. Mary’s in Mundelein, Illinois. He was a priest with the Archdiocese of Chicago before entering the sporting goods industry.

Thomas B. Doyle was born December 25, 1938 in Chicago. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia Ellen, brother

REMEMBERING SPORTING GOODS INDUSTRY HALL OF FAMER, SPORTS, INC. FOUNDER

DON PFAU

Don Pfau’s legacy in the sporting goods industry was rooted in his dedication to his lifelong home of Lewistown, Montana. Pfau, the founder of buying group Sports, Inc., and a member of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame who served on the NSGA Board of Directors, passed away on April 10 at 97.

Pfau was born, raised and began his career in the sporting goods industry in Lewistown, where he was lauded as “Man of the Century” by the Lewistown News-Argus in 2002 for his commitment to numerous local causes. Lewistown is where he started Sports, Inc., in the mid-1960s and where it is headquartered today. Pfau also served on the NSGA Board of Directors from 1987–90 and 1992–95 and was inducted into the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame in 2006.

“Don made a remarkable impact in the sporting goods industry, in the City of Lewistown and central Montana communities,” said Matt Carlson, NSGA President & CEO. “He had a great commitment to help the industry and NSGA and believed firmly in collaborating to make us both better. Don was dedicated to helping independent retailers and team dealers succeed.”

Pfau opened a surplus store in Lewistown in February 1947 after he returned home from serving in the Army. He then opened “Don’s Store” for sporting goods, and it was part of the Lewistown community until 2018.

His experiences made Pfau realize that independent retailers needed to work together so they could buy competitively and stay in business. Pfau started Sports, Incorporated in September 1964 and brought six sporting goods store owners in Montana and the Dakotas to become part of the founding Board of Directors. The company did $83,000 in business in the first year and has grown to 600-plus members doing more than a billion dollars in annual sales.

During Pfau’s tenure on the NSGA Board he co-chaired a program which provided assistance to independent retailers who attended NSGA trade

Michael and sister Rosemary and survived by his daughter Patricia Kelly and brother John. A resident of Oak Brook, Illinois, he was a long-time member of the Village of Oak Brook Planning Commission, Friends of the Oak Brook Public Library, the Graue Mill Board and the LaGrange Soup Kitchen.

A visitation was held May 1 and a funeral mass on May 2 in Hinsdale, Illinois with Internment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the Doyle Family Endowed Research Fund at the Stritch School of Medicine of Loyola University Chicago or the Patricia K. Doyle Hesburgh Women of Impact Scholarship at the University of Notre Dame.

shows. He also served for numerous years on the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame Committee and was Vice Chairman when he retired from the Committee in 2004.

Pfau’s devotion to his Lewistown home was legendary, starting in the 1950s when two downtown hotels burned down and he joined the fundraising effort for a new hotel and convention center. He led the community fundraising efforts for a new hospital, a new high school, a flood-control project, a performing arts center and an adult education center. He organized a program for junior high students to help clean up a local recreation area and was deeply involved in city-county planning.

NSGA extends its deepest condolences to Mr. Pfau’s family, friends, and colleagues. A celebration of life was held June 21 in Lewistown.

INSIGHTS NOW

ENCOURAGING SIGNS WITH INCREASING YOUTH PARTICIPATION

BY NICK RIGITANO NSGA DIRECTOR OF INSIGHTS AND ANALYSIS

One of the highlights from the latest edition of NSGA’s Sports Participation in the US report was the increase in youth participation for most of the team and individual sports segments tracked by NSGA, key areas for many sporting goods retailers, dealers and manufacturers.

The detailed tables section of the report offers breakouts by age and gender, household income and US region for each sport/activity tracked. This allows us to dive deeper into the data and uncover the drivers behind the increases. For this analysis, we will focus on gender among youth (ages 7–17).

The perceptual map in Figure 1 illustrates the changes and drivers behind youth participation in the team segment. The y-axis indicates the overall percentage increase/decrease in each of the team sports while the x-axis indicates the degree to which the increase/decrease was driven by boys or girls participation.

For example, flag football experienced a 20 percent increase in participation compared to its 3-year rolling average, driven by both boys and girls.

Similarly, basketball (+12%) and soccer (+7%) saw solid increases, again driven by both boys’ and girls’ participation. The upper left quadrant contains the sports of volleyball, cheerleading and softball, which also experienced increases compared to their 3-year rolling averages, only these increases were driven by girls’ participation. Among the sports increasing because of boys participation were lacrosse and tackle football, both experiencing strong gains of 19 and 12 percent respectively. Baseball and ice hockey are located near the x-axis having seen slight increases driven by boys, while touch football (-2%) was the only team sport to experience a decrease.

Figure 2 illustrates the changes seen among youth participation within the individual sports segment. Pickleball’s rapid expansion in recent history hasn’t been isolated to only adults. In 2024, pickleball experienced massive growth (+66%) among youth compared to its 3-year rolling average, driven by both boys and girls. The other racquet sport in the segment, tennis, also experienced a solid gain of 10 percent thanks to boys and girls participation increases.

Increases in girls participation played key roles in the growth of gymnastics and bowling, while boys drove the increase in golf. The sports of swimming and ice/figure skating both experienced slight declines in participation driven by girls and boys, respectively.

Rising youth participation figures are always a welcome sight for our industry, especially in times of economic uncertainty. Now is the time for brands and dealers to work together to build upon this momentum to create sustained participation growth and ultimately, long-term customers. Using demographic data can help track this progress and identify areas to target across the sports landscape.

For more information on the report, please visit www.nsga.org/research.

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CONFERENCE NOW

>> The NSGA Leadership Conference returned to PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The Conference was also held here in 2013.

>> Jamaal

Johnson, left, of Platinum supporter STAHLS’ talks with Cole Johnson, a member of the NSGA Board of Directors from Johnson-Lambe Sporting Goods, during a networking break.

>> Gordon Geiger, NSGA Board Chairman and owner of Geiger’s in suburban Cleveland, welcomes attendees on Monday morning.

>> From left, Kendall Whitley of S&S Activewear talks with Starter Uniforms’ Michael Dugan, Mike Byers and Nick Darcangelo.

CONFERENCE NOW

>>

created a big buzz once again at the Leadership Conference.

>> Nathan Otteman of NSSRA member Angles Sports meets with Jim Watkins and Robert Van Brocklin of S&S Activewear during Speed Networking.

Speed Networking

>> Platinum Supporter PROLOOK brought some fun and games to the Monday afternoon reception with John Merola of B&R Sporting Goods trying a little mini-golf under the watchful eye of PROLOOK’s Reese Owens.

>> Allen Van Valkenburg of Rinkside Sports, a Hockey Dealers Association member, talks about products with

San Mar Sports’ Mendy McMurtry during Speed Networking.

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>> Mike Blythe, left, of Blythe’s Sporting Goods and Chuck Adam of 2nd Time Sports try out the REVIVE leg compression system from Mueller Sports Medicine.

>> Brett Mueller, CEO of Mueller Sports Medicine, gives a REVIVE to drawing winner Mike Sheils of SanMar Sports.

>> A big crowd at the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony listens to the acceptance speech from Class of 2025 inductee E.J. “Ned” Hamilton of Peter Glenn Ski & Sports.

>> Past inductees of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame and the Class of 2025. From left, Jim Baugh (Wilson Sporting Goods), Ted Stahl (STAHLS’), Chris Considine (Wilson), Bill Hunt (CHAMPRO), Bob Dickman (BSN Sports), Randy Ruch (Schuylkill Valley Sports), Tony Cardinal (son of the late John Cardinal, Cardinal’s Sport Center), Ronny Flowers (Athletic Supply), Conny Klimenko (Sevylor), Jeff Lynn (Dunham’s Sports) and E.J. “Ned” Hamilton (Peter Glenn Ski & Sports).

CONFERENCE NOW

DR. MARY KELLY PROVIDES PRESCRIPTION FOR SUCCESSFUL LEADERSHIP

BY TOM VAN JACOBS HDA MANAGING DIRECTOR

The sporting goods industry, like many others, is facing disruption, uncertainty and an unstable workforce.

At the NSGA 2025 Leadership Conference, Dr. Mary Kelly, a retired U.S. Navy Commander and seasoned leadership expert, kicked off the event with her timely session titled “Leading Your Sporting Goods Business Through Challenges & Changes.”

Her central message was to lead your team better with less stress, through the understanding of how to serve your people, knowing the stages of crises and changes and using a strategic framework to effectively guide your teams through difficult times.

Kelly acknowledged the difficulty of today’s environment. Business leaders are being pulled in different directions due to geopolitical, economic, workplace and domestic crises. As Millennials become the dominant workforce group, generational gaps are creating new

workplace tensions. Leaders must show up and be the steady hand guiding their teams forward.

“When you show up, the good guys are here,” Kelly said in describing how your team and customers should feel when you are there.

Kelly discussed how to truly serve your people by creating a vision for 2025 and beyond. She broke the vision down into four quadrants to focus on:

PEOPLE

Leaders need to be able to attract, recruit, mentor, evolve and develop their current team and new members. Creating a successful team will create value for your customers so they do not even think of going somewhere else to shop.

TECHNOLOGY AND TOOLS

Technology should work for your team and not complicate their jobs. Determine what systems and tools like AI improve communication, productivity and problem-solving. As a leader, you must immerse yourself in the new technology and tools alongside your team to make them more comfortable doing it themselves.

MANAGING UNCERTAINTY

“Uncertain employees are not making phone calls and helping customers and uncertain customers are not making the buy,” said Kelly.

As a leader, it is important to make your team feel empowered and to make your customers believe you. Kelly mentioned that during storms, dogs go right to their parents. The parents then reassure the dog that it is going to be alright because the dog trusts them.

The same is also true with your team. You must be the leader that they are confident in and know will lead them through uncertain times. Customers value confidence and someone who can manage the uncertainty of buying new products. Creating that environment for them will get your customers to believe in you and make that buy.

GROWTH

The last quadrant focuses on differentiating the business and finding opportunities to grow.

Kelly said, “when you stop trying to grow, you lose market share to the people who are growing.”

Continuing to grow your team and business will allow you to stay ahead of the curve in the changing environment. The combination of these four quadrants creates the value the customer needs to keep coming back.

Growth often brings change, and change often brings resistance. Understanding how employees and people react is important. Kelly shared the stages of a crisis or change, which highlights the emotional journey people take:

Rejection: “Oh no, this can’t be happening”

Recognition: “What can we do in the short run”

Realization:

“We have to step it up”

Resolution: “We got this”

Leaders need to understand how to help your team get more focused through a crisis or change.

“Do you own this issue?” Kelly asked. “If the answer to this question is no, then don’t waste your time.”

Focusing your energy where it matters allows you to make meaningful progress. As a leader, knowing the journey yourself and how to manage it will help guide your team through change and how to resolve it. Kelly continued the journey through change by adding two more aspects:

Reality: “The new normal”

Realignment: “Adapting to be successful”

Leaders realize the reality of the change and that it has become the new normal. You must stay ahead of the curve and figure out what needs to be done. Then you need to realign yourself and your business to be successful in the new reality. Kelly emphasized needing to make the change work for you and your people.

Next, Kelly introduced a leadership framework, PIVOT, which is a strategic guide for navigating crises, challenges, and changes. Kelly used this acronym to show key actions leaders should take to lead their team through change. Kelly broke down each aspect of her acronym:

PURPOSE

Help reinvigorate your people with a sense of purpose. A clear sense of purpose provides direction and motivation.

INFLUENCE/INSPIRE

Be the leader that is liked and trusted and that your team believes in. Inspiring people will encourage people to solve problems and be proactive.

VOLATILITY

“Do I have the right people in the right place at the right time?” Understanding volatility helps in making informed decisions and preparing for potential disruptions.

OPPORTUNITIES

“You have to be adaptable and see the opportunities.” Identify and leverage new opportunities that arise from change.

TOOLS/TRAINING/ TECHNOLOGY

Continue to learn and embrace new technology that will help advance your business and team.

Success in today’s environment isn’t about avoiding disruption; it’s about leading through it. With the right mindset and tools, leaders can create opportunities amongst crises.

Mary Kelly left everyone with a clear message: Great leaders don’t avoid change.

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CONFERENCE NOW

RELATING TO THE CHANGING CONSUMER: A ‘METAIL’ REVOLUTION

BY TOM VAN JACOBS HDA MANAGING DIRECTOR

Retail has always adapted, but the last 15 years have brought a full revolution.

Joel Bines, in his session “Increasing Sales: Relating to the Changing Consumer,” at the NSGA Leadership Conference, explained that today’s power has shifted from retailers to consumers.

Bines laid out how retailers must rethink their strategies to meet the needs of the modern consumer, especially the rise of the “Me-centric” consumer.

Today’s consumer is empowered. Bines broke down the modern consumer into four parts.

• The first part is that the consumer lives in a “Me-centric World” where they are focused on themselves and that the world revolves around them.

• In the second part, Bines described today’s buyer as the “Quantum Consumer,” who is someone that can behave like multiple, completely different shoppers at the same moment in time.

• This is done by the third part, which is buyers having information and complete access. Technology has allowed the modern consumer to have access to endless information, reviews and choices. They don’t wait for retailers to guide them, they already know what they want and where to get it.

• The final part of the new consumer is possessing both power and agency. The power and frictionless agency to choose how they engage in a purchase and options of where to make that purchase.

“Retailers must cultivate their relationships with MEs through the six C’s,” Bines discussed his “recipe book” around the six C’s to help retailers interact with the Me-centric Quantum Consumer. The six C’s are not an instruction manual to follow, but a recipe book to help decide what ingredients from the C’s work best for your business.

THE SIX C’s Cost: Give ME a Steal

Consumers know what things should cost and can research alternatives instantly. They don’t want to feel like they’re buying cheap but value matters to them. Just being low-cost isn’t enough in today’s market.

“You need to understand that cost means cost,” said Bines.

Convenience: Make it Easy for ME

Convenience has to work for the consumer and not just for the retailer. Bines provided an example from Costco’s fuel stations. Costco uses long gas pump hoses that work regardless of what side the tank is on to make it convenient for the consumer, but also benefits Costco. Bines emphasized that this C is incredibly important comparatively.

Category Expertise:

Show ME What You Know

Show customers that you are a true expert in your category. You can’t claim mastery and then fail them. It is important to invest in your team to make them masters of the product as well.

Customization:

That Made-For-ME Feeling

Thanks to modern technology, customization “does not have to mean bespoke anymore.” MEs want products to feel personal and even the illusion of personalization by giving them choices and flexibility can go a long way.

Curation:

That Chosen-For-ME Feeling

Consumers want to feel like something was picked just for them. Bines stated that the curation aspect is hard to scale and is not for every business.

“You can’t fake it, and technology can’t replace it,” said Bines. Retailers must avoid shortcuts and focus on creating a genuinely thoughtful experience.

Community: Make ME Feel Welcome

Community builds connection and loyalty.

Bines said that “communities are always about more than what you sell; it is about what you put around those products and services to make people have an affinity for something.”

Community is difficult to create but easy to destroy, so it is important to continue that Little League sponsorship for the community. MEs must feel part of something bigger.

Retailers need to be thoughtful about which C’s they use and how they act on them, because today’s Me-centric consumers expect more than just a sale.

“You must commit to them if you are going to choose them,” stated Bines,

reminding everyone that building real loyalty takes intention and follow-through.

The sporting goods industry is a “fertile ground for MeTail thinking.” Resale is becoming more popular with consumers. The pre-professional sport for youth is creating an environment where children can act and behave like professional athletes. This is also helped by the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) movement.

Niche sports like cricket, cornhole and frolf are gaining traction and opening new markets. At the same time, the rise of fantasy sports and personalization is moving attention away from teams and toward individual players.

Retailers who understand the Mecentric mindset have an opportunity to build stronger relationships and long-term success. It starts with choosing the right C’s and committing to them fully. As consumer expectations keep evolving, those who stay focused on delivering value and connection will be the ones who lead the way.

>> John Anton, CEO of Momentec Brands, poses a question to Joel Bines.

CONFERENCE NOW

ZOBRIST SHARES MENTAL HIGHS and LOWS of SUCCESS

BY MARTY MACIASZEK NSGA DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

The trip to Wrigley Field in Chicago from small-town Eureka in central Illinois is a relatively short 2½ hours over 150 miles of flat land.

Getting there and to baseball’s pinnacle with the Chicago Cubs, one of the world’s most iconic professional sports franchises, was a long and difficult climb for Ben Zobrist. He was not the big-name prospect growing up or through his journey to the big leagues.

Yet there was Zobrist in early November 2016 in Cleveland. Drinking in the champagne that signified the end of one of the longest championship droughts in pro sports history of 108 years. Clutching the long-awaited World Series trophy with the bonus of a Most Valuable Player trophy after he drove in the game-winning run with a double in the 10th inning of the seventh and final game.

A few days later, Zobrist and the Cubs were back in Chicago for a parade and massive celebration before millions of adoring fans. All the blood and sweat made the dream of becoming a champion come true with the Kansas City Royals in 2015 and the Cubs in 2016, which were the 10th and 11th seasons of his big-league career.

“It’s a wild ride and it’s a lot of fun,” Zobrist told attendees at the NSGA 2025 Leadership Conference.

However, there were also tears as the descent from trips to Disney World and late-night national talk shows occurred faster than Zobrist or anyone else might have imagined. He shared his story during his closing keynote, “Turning

Your Greatest Pains into Your Greatest Gains,” that was moderated by Ryan Hunt, the President of NSGA Platinum supporter CHAMPRO.

“People would be surprised to know how isolating it is,” Zobrist said. “At the time you’re most visible to the public, at least to me, it felt the most lonely. When you’re put on a pedestal in a lot of different places it’s hard to feel just like everybody else. You’re always having to play the hero role.

“You need your team leaders to take ownership. If they don’t take ownership that just perpetuates down the organization, so I had to be that guy who always took ownership. You have to toe this line constantly, to not only be a leader, to not only perform your best on the field, but now you have to be at your best off the field all the time, too.

“On one side it’s amazing. You’re living out the dream and you are becoming the character you looked up to as a kid. Yet there’s still a part of you that is still that little boy that’s scared to make a mistake and that’s in all of us.

‘There is no place just to be Ben and I didn’t realize the impact this was having on the human side. Part of me is just Ben under the jersey. I was handling everything on the outside really, really well, yet something was building when we won in 2016. It doesn’t just happen when you’re in a dark valley and failing big. It can happen when you’re winning big that things can change.”

That was what Zobrist called the “weird part” of reaching the lifelong dream so many have but so few experience. He received 5,000 requests in just two days after the 2016 World Series victory.

“It was overwhelming,” he said. “I started spiraling. I started having trouble sleeping when I got back home. I didn’t realize there was a part of my identity through success that I was losing because now I had just accomplished the final goal.

“But now I’ve got more years of this contract to fulfill. I didn’t realize how much my motivation was dependent on achieving that thing. Once I achieved that thing there was a part of my identity that I started to lose. So even though I was winning on the outside and everyone was saying how great this is, I was losing on the inside.

“That’s where the depression set in and the anxiety. Then I felt very lonely because I thought, ‘I can’t tell this to people. Who is going to understand that I’m hurting and struggling while I just had the biggest win of my life?’”

Zobrist said that’s where it came time for the “inner work” and re-invention and re-evaluation of himself. He also shared his experience as a “super-utility” player, where he turned versatility into an ability to help his teams and have a long and successful big-league career.

“I think when we get stuck in one way of thinking, ‘This is what I’m good at. This is my proficiency,’ you’re missing an opportunity to grow,” Zobrist said. “That’s why I stayed valuable into my age 38 season. I was willing to adapt and I was trying to change.

“It’s natural to stay comfortable and to not be willing to adapt. When you’re willing and open-minded that makes you a more well-rounded part of the team.”

Now Zobrist is sharing his experiences through the Champion Forward nonprofit organization he founded to help teenage athletes and coaches deal with their daily pressures.

Zobrist also sounded a bit like the man who believed in him most, Joe Maddon, his longtime manager with the Tampa

Bay Rays and Chicago Cubs, as he dispensed some final wisdom for attendees. One of Maddon’s favorite phrases was “don’t ever permit the pressure to exceed the pleasure.”

“Part of what I’m doing is showing you behind the curtain and the vulnerability of all our experiences,” Zobrist said. “Whatever you do, people have expectations for you. You may not be playing before 40,000 people, but there are still high expectations of performance and your job is on the line, money’s on the line, the company’s on the line, there’s a lot on the line.

“When there’s pressure there’s definitely the need to perform, but there’s also the need to process. You can’t forget the need to process in the midst of the performance.”

CONFERENCE NOW

UNDERSTANDING HOW EVERYONE IN THE INDUSTRY WINS TOGETHER

BY MARTY MACIASZEK NSGA DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Where consumers shopped for their sporting goods and the brands they were looking for were likely not high on the priority list for the late Mother Teresa.

So why would Nick Rigitano, NSGA’s Director of Insights and Analysis, invoke the name of one of the most charitable and recognizable figures in world history? It was to help illustrate the goal of Tuesday morning’s interactive session, “Everyone Wins: Cultivating Stronger Industry Relationships,” at the NSGA 2025 Leadership Conference.

Rigitano started the 90-minute session with a presentation of some of the findings of NSGA’s Industry Relationships survey conducted earlier this year. More than an hour was spent with a mix of retailers, team dealers and suppliers having roundtable discussions about questions posed by Rigitano.

But Rigitano kickstarted it by sharing this famous Mother Teresa quote: “I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.”

Rigitano followed that by saying: “While I’m not sure how many uniforms and baseball gloves she sold in her career, I think we give her a pass because clearly she knew a thing or two about relationships.”

Mother Teresa, if she was concerned about such things, would have probably been pleased with some of the survey results while also being cognizant of more work to be done.

One of the key survey takeaways Rigitano shared was that the majority of dealer and supplier respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with their industry counterparts. Supplier

satisfaction with industry retailers and dealers has shown moderate growth since 2018, when NSGA last conducted a similar industry relationships survey.

Results were derived from open-ended responses regarding respondents’ top frustrations with industry counterparts and formulated into a word cloud. When using a word cloud, the more times a specific word is mentioned, the larger that word appears and gravitates toward the center of the cloud. For top frustrations among dealers, the most popular responses included DTC (selling direct), inventory/on-time delivery, order due dates and order minimums/program requirements. Among suppliers, top frustrations included dealers not adapting to change, not supporting their brand, and not understanding products.

Some of the key takeaways from the Industry Relationships Survey.

>> NSGA’s Nick Rigitano

Trustworthiness/sticking to your word was the top ingredient for a successful business relationship for dealers and suppliers. The survey also looked at some of the top areas of frustration, satisfaction and importance for dealers and suppliers.

Rigitano then transitioned from the survey results presentation to the interactive portion of the session. Questions were posed for a few minutes of roundtable discussion among attendees, who gave their answers through a phone app which provided real-time results and key responses that everyone could see immediately.

A summary of the results of the conference interactive session is provided in this story. The results of NSGA’s Industry Relationships survey will be available later this summer.

“We all have our superpowers, but we all have our limitations,” Rigitano said during his presentation. “When we come together, that’s when the magic happens.”

Not unlike a team working together on a game-winning touchdown pass in football or 3-pointer in basketball.

REAL-TIME ROUNDTABLE ROUNDUP

Real-time participant responses to questions during the roundtable discussions from the session “Everyone Wins: Cultivating Stronger Industry Relationships,” at the NSGA 2025 Leadership Conference. The top responses to each question are listed.

Q: What qualities does your best dealer/supplier partner have?

1.) Communication

2.) Responsive

3.) Trust

Q: What qualities make for a poor dealer/supplier partner?

1.) Unreliable

2.) Poor communication

3.) Unresponsive

Q: What are some ways to improve communication between suppliers and dealers?

1.) Face-to-face meetings

2.) Timely responses

3.) Regular check-ins

Q: What are some ways to promote better merchandising of products?

1.) Branded samples (more samples, new samples, etc.)

2.) Product data (access to more data, detailed info, centralized database)

3.) POP displays and Planograms

Q: How can we make navigating change easier on everyone?

1.) Proactive approach

2.) Communication

3.) Open discussions

Q: What are the hurdles to making changes? (answers based on votes for best answers)

1.) Old habits

2.) “It’s how we have always done it” mentality

3.) Time

Q: What can dealers/suppliers do to better manage increasingly demanding order due dates?

1.) Improved forecasting

2.) Communication

3.) On-time deliveries

4.) Incentives/discounts for ordering early

Q: What are best practices for fair and transparent implementation of tariffs? (answers based on votes for best answers)

1.) Clear and concise communication

2.) Surcharge line on invoice

3.) Adjusting price back when/if it gets resolved

Q: What are best practices for communicating tariff-related changes?

1.) Consistency in communication

2.) Be transparent

3.) Advance notice — email general changes. Provide adequate lead time before implementing

2025 PRODUCT GUIDE

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2025 PRODUCT GUIDE

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KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL

BY RITCHIE SAYNER

Anyone who has ever played a sport involving a ball, be it basketball, golf, football, baseball, or even today’s ever-popular game of pickleball knows one thing, it is important to keep your eye on the ball.

For those not entirely sure what I am getting at, I will offer a brief explanation. The idiom itself most likely originated from the game of baseball where it was imperative that players need to watch the ball at all times to achieve success in the game. When applied to business situations, it means to pay attention to a given situation and stay focused.

I cannot think of a better application of this practice than your store’s inventory. After all, it is your largest and most important asset. Staying focused on inventory doesn’t just mean preparing a one-time annual buying plan based on what happened last year.

To use a baseball analogy, this would be like asking a below average batter to head to the plate with two outs in the ninth inning when your team is down by three runs and hoping for a grand slam. Sure, it’s possible, but unlikely. Yet, I see stores engage in this practice regularly. Basing next season’s purchases on last year’s performance is, in most cases, a sure-fire way to strike out. If last season was not profitable or if sales were down, why would you want to plan around that, especially at the total store level? Your merchandise plan needs to be constructed at the classification level and done by store.

I regularly speak with retailers who miss their sales potential due to not receiving enough new merchandise on a timely basis. This is the cardinal sin in retail today. It is as bad as carrying over inventory that did not sell the previous season in hopes that it “might” sell next year. Sure, it might. And our below average batter might hit a grand slam, too. You have already had a few swings at the old merchandise, and you have struck out. It’s time to change up the order and try a new approach.

Keeping your eye on the ball in the world of retail means that you are constantly aware of not only how much inventory you own, by class and store, but also how much is on order, slow sellers that may need promotional attention, and hot sellers that need to

be filled in. When determining a proper inventory level, it is important to know what your turnover goals are. Without having a goal, there are no target stock levels, no sales goals to achieve and no projected merchandise receipts to buy for. You are doing nothing more than buying and selling merchandise and hoping there is a profit at the end of the year. Remember, you can’t manage what you don’t measure.

The key to achieving your target turnover number is to monitor your stockto-sales ratios by classification monthly. This tells you the number of months of supply that you have at any point in time. Turnover can also be looked at in terms of the number of weeks of supply. For example, a two-time turn would be 26 weeks of supply (WOS) - 52 weeks in a year divided by 2 turns = 26 WOS.

Regular readers of this column will remember a previous discussion of the 1% rule as it applies to weeks of stock. The rule is that for every week of stock you can reduce, annual cash flow increases by about 1% of sales.

Take the store doing a million dollars in annual volume that is getting a 2-time turn or an average of 26 weeks of stock.

That’s six month’s supply of inventory. Their average stock level is $500,000 @ retail or about $250K @ cost, given a 50% initial markup in this case to keep the math simple. Assuming this retailer can find a way to reduce the average inventory by just one week of supply, which shouldn’t be all that challenging, the stock turn increases from 2 to 2.08 times annually. This reduces the average inventory @ retail $480,769 or $240,385 @ cost or approximately 1% of annual sales volume. The more weeks of stock that can be reduced, the more cash flow can be increased.

I encourage you to try this exercise and see how much additional cash flow can be generated in your operation. This exercise does NOT require huge changes. Small adjustments in a few areas can yield a significant improvement in cash flow.

Serious professional athletes do everything possible to get the most out of their talents. They often employ coaches and personal trainers. Many also have cooks and nutritionists on their payroll to help them maximize their potential. To them, the money spent on these services to keep them performing at a top level is like an insurance policy.

Professional retailers of all volume levels can benefit from merchandise planning services administered and analyzed by a competent advisor. If you do not work with an outside consultant or coach currently, consider doing yourself a huge favor and at least investigate the possibility. A good coach should be able to pay for their services several times over during the course of the year by showing you how to reduce the number of weeks of supply in your inventory as well as where opportunities lie. This is just good insurance.

Ask yourself the following questions, are you simply trying to win more games than last year or are you going for the World Series?

Said another way, do you want to just pay your bills, or do you want to maximize your true potential this year?

RITCHIE SAYNER

Sayner has spent the past four decades helping independent retailers improve profitability. In addition to speaking to retail groups nationwide, Sayner is a regular contributor to retail industry publications. Prior to embarking on his retail consulting career, he was the general merchandise manager for an independent department store in the Midwest. Ritchie is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. He is also the author of the book, “Retail Revelations-Strategies for Improving Sales, Margins, and Turnover.” He can be reached though his website at www.advancedretailstrategies.com.

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NEWS NOW

BACKSTROKE LEDGES PERMITTED IN HIGH SCHOOL SWIMMING

State high school associations may adopt rules permitting the use of backstroke ledges during swimming competitions starting in the 2025–26 school year. Rule 2-7-3 was approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Swimming and Diving Rules Committee during its annual meeting and approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.

The new, permissive rule allows backstroke ledges in pools that maintain a 6-foot water depth, measured from the starting end wall to at least 16-feet, 5-inches (5 meters) from the end wall. It also specifies the acceptable dimensions for the ledges.

Under Rule 2-7-3, if backstroke ledges are used in a competition, identical ledges must be provided by the host team for all lanes. Even if the ledges are available, individual swimmers are not required to use them.

The change follows years of discussions regarding backstroke ledges in high school competition, with the committee making its final decision based on research focused on risk minimization and alignment with national and international swimming standards.

A strongly recommended teaching protocol for backstroke ledges will be available through the NFHS in the future.

HIGH SCHOOL ICE HOCKEY RULE CHANGES IN 2025–26

Language was added to Rule 3-8 of the high school ice hockey rules stating that no player or goalkeeper shall wear any audio (microphone) or video (camera) device during a game.

This was one of three changes recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Ice Hockey Rules Committee for the 2025–26 season. The committee’s proposed rules changes were compiled

at its annual meeting held April 28–30 at The Alexander in Indianapolis and have since been approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.

In a situation when the puck rests on top of the goal netting between the crossbar and goal frame during a high school ice hockey game, it shall now be considered unplayable and result in immediate stoppage. Rule 9-8-4 also clarified that a puck on the outside of the goal netting below the crossbar shall remain considered in play by both teams.

“The primary reason for stopping play when the puck is on top of the net is for the health and safety of players and the goalkeeper,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services and editor of the NFHS Ice Hockey Rules Book. “The committee did not want to see sticks coming up high trying to knock the puck off the shelf. The proximity of the goalkeeper always is sensitive, so there could be sticks coming in high in the direction of the goalkeeper and the committee did not want that in high school ice hockey.”

Finally, in Rule 5-4, an editorial alteration was made to the title of the section by changing “linesman” to “linesperson.”

The NFHS Ice Hockey Rules Book had already replaced gender-specific language throughout the book, and the change is consistent with the rest of the rules.

According to the most recent NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey, more than 32,000 boys participate in ice hockey in 1,641 high schools across the country, and more than 9,600 girls participate in the sport in 785 schools.

Ice hockey is sanctioned in 16 of the 51 state associations (includes Washington D.C.): Alaska, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin.

WRESTLING RULES: HIGH SCHOOL CHANGES, NCAA PROPOSALS IMPACT UNIFORMS, EQUIPMENT

The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) made two wrestling rule changes affecting uniforms and equipment that were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors. While wrestlers cannot wear wristbands, sweatbands, bicep bands or arm sleeves that do not contain a pad, they now will be able to wear leg sleeves that do not contain a pad. Since wrestlers are allowed to wear tights on both legs, the committee agreed that wearing leg sleeves would be no different.

Effective July 1, 2027, the school’s name, school nickname, school logo, school mascot, weight classification and/or the wrestler’s name are permitted on the uniform top and/or bottom. Aside from the wrestling-specific terms, this is standard language approved for all NFHS sports rules publications.

Elliot Hopkins, who oversees the NFHS wrestling rules, said there are potential concerns with the location of a wrestler’s name on the uniform and that a wrestler’s nickname would not be allowed. Team dealers are advised to take a conservative approach when it comes to requests for names on uniforms so a school does not wind up with uniforms that will not be permitted for use.

Other changes included a revision to clarify the already illegal leg block/ cutback maneuver, near-fall criteria language added to the Technical Fall section in Rule 5-11 and an option of conducting dual meets from lowest to heaviest weight classes.

on page

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NCAA SOFTBALL PROPOSES USING DOUBLE FIRST BASE

The NCAA Softball Rules Committee met in June and proposed requiring a double first base to be implemented for the 2025–26 academic year for Divison I and Division II competition. If approved, Division III implementation would be delayed until the 2026–27 academic year.

After a thorough discussion, committee members made the recommendation with the thought that it will better define a running lane between home plate and first base. This could help umpires make calls when deciding whether the offensive player interfered with a defensive player’s ability to catch a throw.

“The double first base is also used at youth and international levels of softball,” said Tina Phillips, softball coach at Pittsburgh-Bradford and committee chair. “So the committee believes the adjustment for the players should be a smooth transition. The players are coming in familiar with this rule.”

All rules proposals must be approved by the NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel before becoming official. The panel is scheduled to discuss softball rules recommendations August 13. Other rules proposals included oneway electronic communication devices may be used by offensive players. Communication could originate from the dugouts or coaches’ boxes. Another proposal would allow replays of a play under video review to be shown at any speed on the in-game video board.

NCAA FIELD HOCKEY ADDS FACE MASK REQUIREMENT

All NCAA field hockey players defending a penalty corner will be required to

wear a face mask when defending a penalty corner. This was among the rule changes effective for the fall 2025 season that were approved by the NCAA Field Hockey Rules Subcommittee and the NCAA Playing Rules.

This rule change will require 4 face masks with a goalie or 5 face masks if a goalie is not used. The NCAA cited in its rules document that the cost of each face mask ranges from $75–$145.

The rationale stated that the FIH (International Hockey Federation), the governing body of field hockey and indoor field hockey, and USA Field Hockey are requiring all field players to wear face masks when defending penalty corners during their tournament competition to best protect the players. The use of face masks on penalty corners is widely accepted by professional organizations and NCAA member schools and is an important consideration in mitigating injury risk.

NCAA RECOMMENDS ACROBATICS AND TUMBLING, STUNT FOR CHAMPIONSHIP STATUS

Acrobatics and tumbling and stunt made significant progress toward NCAA championship status, with their first NCAA championships potentially taking place in spring 2027.

The NCAA Committee on Women’s Athletics voted to recommend that all three divisions sponsor legislation to establish a National Collegiate Championship in acrobatics and tumbling and stunt. The recommendations are contingent on official confirmation of the sport’s sponsorship and participation numbers for spring 2025 competition, which will occur over the summer.

Before the Committee on Women’s Athletics can recommend a sport for NCAA championship status, at least 40 schools must sponsor it at the varsity level and meet the sport’s minimum competition and participant

requirements. The committee oversees the Emerging Sports for Women program, which aims to grow participation and competitive opportunities for women’s sports across the NCAA.

Acrobatics and tumbling, which became an emerging sport in August 2020, quickly grew its NCAA sponsorship from 27 schools in the 2020–21 academic year to more than 40 in 2023–24. Stunt’s growth has been rapid across the NCAA, crossing the benchmark of 40 schools meeting minimum contest and participant requirements in its first year as an emerging sport in all three divisions. It joined the emerging sports program in 2023 in Divisions I and II, while Division III added it in 2024.

Acrobatics and tumbling is a fastpaced, team-based discipline in which athletes perform a series of synchronized skills in events such as acrobatics, pyramid, toss, tumbling and team routines. Meets feature six events and typically span 90 to 120 minutes, with skills scored on difficulty and execution. The sport is currently governed by the National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association and draws participants from gymnastics, cheerleading, diving and other strength-based sports.

At least 48 schools reported they planned to sponsor acrobatics and tumbling during the 2024–25 academic year. This represents continued growth from the 2023–24 academic year, which included more than 1,100 acrobatics and tumbling student-athletes across the NCAA. If all three divisions sponsor and approve legislation to create a National Collegiate Championship, acrobatics and tumbling student-athletes across all divisions would compete at the championship.

Following the committee’s recommendation, the projected timeline to add an acrobatics and tumbling championship is:

Continued on page 47

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NEWS NOW

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• Each division is expected to review the recommendation and sponsor a proposal by its respective 2025–26 legislative cycle deadline.

• If sponsored, the divisions are expected to vote on the proposals during the 2026 NCAA Convention in Washington, D.C.

• The recommendation also includes establishing an NCAA Acrobatics and Tumbling Committee, which would begin its work in January 2026, to allow time to prepare for a championship in spring 2027.

• If adopted on that timeline, the first acrobatics and tumbling championship would be held in spring 2027.

Stunt transforms traditional cheerleading skills into a head-to-head, four-quarter format emphasizing athleticism and precision. Teams compete in partner stunts, pyramids, jumps and tumbling, with points awarded based on execution. Championships are conducted through a double-elimination tournament structure, and games require only existing gymnasium space. The sport is currently governed at the collegiate level by USA Cheer and continues to grow through robust high school and club pipelines.

If all three divisions sponsor and approve legislation to create a National Collegiate Championship, stunt student-athletes across all divisions would compete at the championship.

Following the committee’s recommendation, here is the projected timeline to add a stunt championship:

• Each division is expected to review the recommendation and sponsor a proposal by its respective 2025–26 legislative cycle deadline.

• If sponsored, the divisions are expected to vote on the proposals in January during the 2026 NCAA Convention in Washington, D.C.

• The recommendation also includes establishing an NCAA Stunt Committee, which would begin its work in January 2026, to allow time to prepare for a championship in spring 2027.

• If adopted on that timeline, the first stunt championship would be held in spring 2027.

Additionally, before a National Collegiate Championship can be established, funding must be approved by the appropriate financial oversight committees. If approved, acrobatics and tumbling and stunt would join the following sports that have earned NCAA championship status through the Emerging Sports for Women program: rowing (1996), ice hockey (2000), water polo (2000), bowling (2003), beach volleyball (2015) and wrestling (2025). In 2023-24, emerging sports accounted for over 5,000 participation opportunities for student-athletes based on NCAA sports sponsorship and participation rates data, an increase of over 30% from 2022–23.

DICK RITTER, LONGTIME PRESIDENT OF DODGER MANUFACTURING, PASSES AWAY

the sporting goods industry after he re-located to Eldora, Iowa and owned Dick’s Sporting Goods Store. He was the President at Dodger Manufacturing, known for its athletic clothing and uniforms, for more than 30 years before he retired in 1996.

Ritter was a passionate supporter of the Eldora community through fundraising for the local track and coaching youth basketball and baseball. He was also an avid outdoorsman.

Dick and his wife Carolyn were married 68 years and had two sons, Steve and Curt. A funeral mass and visitation were held June 9 in Grinnell. Memorial contributions can be designated to the Grinnell United Methodist Church and checks may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, P.O. Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.

ORDERMYGEAR LAUNCHES PRINT-ON-DEMAND STORES PARTNERSHIP WITH STAHLS’

OrderMyGear (OMG) announced its integration with STAHLS’ Fulfill Engine to launch print-on-demand stores. The integration helps promotional product distributors, apparel decorators and team dealers to tap into a network of vetted decorators to automatically source, decorate and ship items on their behalf as orders are placed through OMG’s online stores.

The print-on-demand integration addresses a number of challenges faced by businesses that sell custom-branded merchandise and apparel. By automating the process for fulfilling online orders, distributors, decorators and team dealers can free up more time to focus on other areas of their business and less on the complexities of managing and fulfilling orders.

Continued on page 49

Dick Ritter, who was President of Dodger Manufacturing and a longtime NSGA member, passed away on May 27 in Grinnell, Iowa at age 91. He started in

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Print-on-demand stores also make it easy for businesses to support single unit or low-quantity orders, since items are decorated and fulfilled as they are placed. This eliminates the need to worry about producing too much, upfront inventory costs, or investing in space to hold inventory so businesses can print only what they need, when they need it.

The integration offers OMG clients thousands of print-on-demand products to sell on their online stores, including hardgoods and apparel, from a growing network of top suppliers including SanMar, S&S Activewear, Momentec Brands and more. Clients can select products and decoration methods, as well as add logos and adjust placement directly in OMG.

The STAHLS’ Fulfill Engine decorator network spans a growing group of vetted facilities across the United States, providing a full range of decoration methods including direct-to-film (DTF), direct-to-garment (DTG), embroidery, laser engraving and more. The network emphasizes delivering high-quality items fast, with strict quality control processes in place and an average decoration speed of five business days from when an order is placed.

OrderMyGear and STAHLS’ are members and supporters of NSGA. OrderMyGear founder Kent McKeaigg and Ted Stahl of STAHLS’ are members of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.

STAHLS’ NAMES NEW EMEA REGION SALES DIRECTOR

STAHLS’ announced the appointment of Thomas Heuer as Director of Sales for the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East, and Africa).

With more than 25 years of experience in textile printing, garment decoration, and international sales, Heuer joins STAHLS’ at a key time of global growth. In his new role, he will lead sales efforts across the EMEA region and work closely with Martin Borley, Executive Managing Director for STAHLS’ UK & Europe, and Stephanie Schnur, Managing Director of STAHLS’ Europe, to drive regional growth and strengthen customer relationships.

Heuer will support STAHLS’ continued global expansion, including the growth of solutions like UltraColor® Pro hybrid transfers, UltraColor MAX™ DTF transfers, 3D Silicone Heat Transfers and Hotronix® heat presses.

GROUPESTAHL ACQUIRES TKO SALES

GroupeSTAHL announced the full acquisition of TKO Sales, Inc., a rising force in heat transfer manufacturing based in Pompano Beach, Florida, with additional facilities on the West Coast.

This acquisition marks a bold step forward in GroupeSTAHL’s long-term vision of growing with intention, investing in innovation and expanding its customer-first model at a time when others in the industry are pulling back. By adding TKO to its lineup of brands, including STAHLS’ Transfer Express, Hotronix®, STAHLS’ and STAHLS’ Fulfill Engine, GroupeSTAHL significantly strengthens its operational reach, product diversity and production agility across North America.

Founded by Christian Zarate, TKO Sales has quickly built a reputation for agility, quality and customer devotion, hallmarks that mirror GroupeSTAHL’s own DNA. Zarate will remain on board as President of TKO Sales, continuing to lead the company with the same energy and integrity that made it a standout player in the market.

STAHLS’ is a longtime member and supporter of NSGA.

Ted Stahl is a member of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.

ORDERMYGEAR NAMES SIMON VP OF ENGINEERING

OrderMyGear (OMG) announced the promotion of Drew Simon to Vice President of Engineering.

Prior to his promotion, Simon served OMG as the Head of Engineering, where he led the engineering efforts for OMG’s Online Stores Platform and established himself as a trusted team leader. While he was Head of Engineering, Simon partnered closely with the Product team to ensure OMG products delivered client and business value, while also supporting the Engineering team to effectively grow and scale.

In his new role, Simon will be setting and evolving the long-term engineering vision for OMG so it aligns with the company’s business goals. The new VP will play a key role in evolving the technical platform to support more advanced functionality, as well as help unify OMG’s growing portfolio of solutions. Simon will also oversee platform stability and ongoing improvements across OMG’s stack of services.

Prior to joining OMG, Simon worked in the automotive tech industry at a startup called eCarList, which was acquired by Dealertrack.

As the Director of Interactive Development, Simon was responsible for team and platform integrations, including acquisitions. For more information on the OMG leadership team or suite of solutions, visit ordermygear.com.

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NEWS NOW

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OrderMyGear is a longtime member and supporter of NSGA.

STAHLS’ INTRODUCES AI TOOL FOR ARTWORK

STAHLS’ Transfer Express introduced STAHLS’ ART AI Assist™, an industry-first artificial intelligence tool designed to prepare artwork for UltraColor MAX™ Direct to Film (DTF) transfers. Unlike other AI tools, this platform was built by industry leaders with decades of experience in custom apparel decoration and heat transfer technology.

STAHLS’ ART AI Assist™ goes beyond basic graphic generation; it’s a powerful artwork enhancement solution developed by the experts at STAHLS’ Transfer Express, a trusted name in heat printing and transfer innovation. Made to optimize artwork for direct to film printing,

STAHLS’ ART AI Assist™ ensures every design meets the highest standards for clarity, color vibrancy, and professional-quality output, helping decorators consistently achieve production-ready results with ease.

With one click, STAHLS’ ART AI Assist™ evaluates your uploaded artwork and automatically fixes issues that can delay production or result in poor quality prints. It is the only in-depth system that can remove backgrounds, enhance resolution, correct transparency and color issues, and apply true-to-print halftones for the most realistic full color finishes possible.

Key Features of STAHLS’ ART AI Assist™:

• Enhances low-res or pixelated artwork

• Removes background with smart edge detection

• Corrects colors and transparency for precise reproduction

• Generates halftones for smooth fades and photo-quality effects

• Proofs in real-time so users can see instant updates

• Uploads in batches for faster ordering

at higher volumes

AI Assist is free for anyone ordering UltraColor MAX™ DTF transfers from Transfer Express. Perfect for businesses of all sizes, including seasoned print shops, emerging brands, or side hustles from home, STAHLS’ ART AI Assist™ gives decorators the confidence and tools to create stunning, heat press-ready artwork in seconds with no design software or graphic experience needed.

STAHLS’ AWARDS FIRST 2025 FAMILY SCHOLARSHIPS

STAHLS’ announced the first quarter winners of the 2025 Stahl Family Scholarship. Stevensville High School in Stevensville, Montana is the winner in the school category, and Elite Design Solutions in Minnetonka, Minnesota is the winner in the business category. Both winners will receive The Dream Shop Package valued at over $6,000. Stevensville High School is dedicated to providing students with real-world skills through its career and technical education program. By receiving this Dream Shop Package, the school will enhance its curriculum in apparel decoration, empowering students with hands-on experience using professional-grade heat printing technology.

Elite Design Solutions offers custom apparel for local businesses and through Etsy. With the addition of the Dream Shop Package, the business will increase its production capabilities, meet growing demand, and expand its services to better serve the local community while tapping into new markets beyond apparel.

Since its launch in 2020, the Stahl Family Scholarship has awarded more than $100,000 worth of equipment to 39 winners. For the remainder of 2025, STAHLS’ is continuing the tradition of helping small businesses and educational programs turn their dreams into reality by awarding six more Dream Shop Packages throughout the year.

Every quarter in 2025, one small business and one school will receive The Dream Shop Package, complete with a Hotronix® Fusion IQ® heat press and a 360 IQ® hat press, along with essential platens, accessories, and expert training. Winners will also receive virtual consultations, access to Fulfill Engine software, and a product credit for use at STAHLS’ or Transfer Express.

This initiative is designed to help winners expand their decorating capabilities, grow their businesses, and inspire the next generation of apparel decorators.

G-FORM® UNVEILS MOUNTAIN BIKING COLLECTION

G-Form®, the innovative technology protection brand, announced the launch of its all-new X4 Collection — a revolutionary full-body protective gear lineup designed for mountain bikers who demand the best in comfort, coverage and performance.

The X4 Collection’s impact protection includes a complete range of MTB gear, including base layers, limb protection, jerseys, gloves and more. At the core of the collection is G-Form’s re-engineered SmartFlex™ technology, now reshaped for greater coverage, a lower profile, lighter weight and increased flexibility. Combined with enhanced heat management features, including molded vents and breathable compression fabric, X4 ensures riders stay cool and comfortable on every ride.

G-Form® announced the launch of the EJ Signature Collection, an elite line of protective gear designed for mountain biking (MTB) enthusiasts and competitive riders. Inspired by pro freeride and slopestyle MTB champion and G-Form ambassador Emil

Johansson, this collection, nicknamed “RideWire,” delivers top-tier protection, sustainability and performance ideal for downhill, enduro, slopestyle and gravity riding styles. The EJ Signature Collection redefines what it means to ride with confidence and style.

“Partnering with Emil Johansson, one of the most innovative and technical riders in the world, has been an incredible journey,” said Paul Fisher, G-Form’s Vice President of Product.

“We’ve worked together tirelessly to engineer a collection that not only meets the extreme demands of MTB athletes but also prioritizes sustainability without compromising performance. The EJ Signature Collection embodies durability, flexibility, and eco-conscious innovation.”

G-FORM, MLB LAUNCH BOBBY WITT JR. SIGNATURE SERIES

G-Form®, an Official Protective Equipment Supplier of Major League Baseball, announced the launch of the Bobby Witt Jr. Fire + Ice Baseball Elbow and Hand Guards — an exciting addition to the brand’s MLB Authentic Collection.

Co-developed with Kansas City Royals superstar shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., this new signature series blends bold style with elite-level performance, inviting players of all ages and levels to play with fire, play with ice in their veins, and “Play With Major Impact.”

Witt Jr., a G-Form athlete since high school, has quickly emerged as one of the game’s top talents. Since his MLB debut in 2022, he has earned accolades including MLB All-Star, All-MLB First Team, MLB Batting Champion, MLBPAA Heart and Hustle Award Winner — and is the only shortstop in MLB history with multiple 30/30 seasons.

With the 2025 MLB season underway, Witt Jr. partnered with G-Form to bring his signature energy and style to this first-of-its-kind series — featuring redhot “Fire” and cool-blue “Ice” designs.

The Bobby Witt Jr. Fire + Ice guards feature G-Form’s patented SmartFlex® technology — body-mapped protection that stays soft and flexible during play but hardens on impact to absorb up to 2X the force of traditional hardshell guards. Lightweight, breathable, and built for a secure, adjustable fit, these guards provide wrap-around coverage for the elbow/upper arm and hand/wrist areas without the need for molding or shaping.

This signature series reinforces G-Form’s commitment to deliver high-performance protection for athletes of all levels — from youth ballplayers to the pros. G-Form has earned the trust of elite athletes, including top MLB performers and rising stars. Widely regarded for delivering comfort, style, and confidence, G-Form has redefined what athletes expect from protective gear.

As part of its co-exclusive designation, G-Form will continue to supply protective equipment for MLB players and now have licensing co-exclusivity in key protective categories, including elbow guards, leg guards, hand and wrist guards, protective sliding shorts, protective catcher’s pants, protective batting tank tops and shirts, protective arm sleeves and protective knee sleeves.

Also, G-Form Custom allows MLB players and athletes of all ages and levels to personalize their protective gear with unmatched design flexibility on g-form. com, offering the same trusted MLBapproved products now available for full customization. The partnership also unlocks opportunities for G-Form to participate in MLB events to showcase its innovative products with MLB players, coaches, and staff as well as fans. G-Form is a member and supporter of NSGA.

BURGHARDT SPORTING GOODS FOCUSES ON MAIN LOCATION, NEW ERA OF GROWTH

Burghardt Sporting Goods, a staple in Milwaukee’s sporting goods and branded apparel market, has announced it will not renew the lease at its Fox Point location, with the lease coming to an end in June.

This strategic decision allows the company to focus on its thriving New Berlin location, a larger, more interactive space that reflects Burghardt’s forward-thinking direction.

At 80,000 square feet, the New Berlin location serves as Burghardt’s operational headquarters. It features HitTrax batting cages, a rentable turf field, and a multi-purpose event space ideal for birthday parties, corporate gatherings and more. It’s no surprise the company now refers to it as their official “Home Base.”

To continue supporting its North Shore clientele, Burghardt’s is expanding its delivery and shipping services, as well as increasing access to uniform fit kits and other customer-focused enhancements.

New Leadership, New Opportunities

Adding to the excitement, Burghardt’s is proud to announce the addition of its sixth-generation family member, Maggie Burghardt, daughter of owner Brian Burghardt. Maggie joins the company following a successful tenure as a senior IT auditor at PricewaterhouseCoopers. She brings both a corporate mindset and a passion for innovation.

Her focus will be growing Burghardt’s branded apparel and promotional product offerings for businesses.

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Home Base Bash: Celebrate What’s Next

To celebrate this exciting new chapter, Burghardt’s will host a “Home Base Bash” this summer at the New Berlin location. The community event will showcase upcoming initiatives and feature activities and surprises for all ages.

Everyone — loyal customers, new friends, and families — will be invited to celebrate the future of Burghardt Sporting Goods together.

Burghardt Sporting Goods is a NSGA member.

CHIPPLY HOSTS ANNUAL SUMMIT

Chipply recently hosted its third annual Summit in downtown Milwaukee, drawing its largest group of attendees to date. The multi-day event brought together team dealers, apparel decorators and promotional products distributors for three days of networking, learning and collaboration.

The Summit kicked off Monday evening with a welcome reception at the New Fashioned, a recreational venue located in Milwaukee’s Deer District. Attendees enjoyed activities like Hyper Bowling and Dart Ball, along with dinner and drinks in a relaxed, social setting.

On Tuesday, guests visited Chipply’s New Berlin headquarters to see firsthand how sister company Burghardt’s Sporting Goods leverages web stores to drive efficiency and sales. The afternoon featured educational sessions focused on best practices and sales strategies. That evening, attendees headed to American Family Field to watch the Brewers take on the Astros from the Johnsonville Party Deck, an

all-inclusive space offering food, drinks and prime views of the game.

Wednesday’s agenda was centered around breakout sessions covering a wide range of topics — from industry trends to effective web store marketing. The Summit concluded with a forward-looking presentation from Chipply’s Director of Engineering, who shared key updates and the product roadmap for the year ahead.

“This was our biggest and best Summit yet,” said Chipply CEO Angie Hardwick. “We’re committed to growing and evolving this event so our customers continue to gain even more value. It’s incredibly rewarding to connect in person and build a space where collaboration and learning thrive. We walk away just as energized and inspired as our attendees.”

Planning is already underway for the 2026 Summit, scheduled for early May. Chipply is a member and supporter of NSGA.

MUELLER, CLOUD9 PARTNER ON ESPORTS RECOVERY

Cloud9 and Mueller Esports Medicine are teaming up to redefine recovery in esports, bridging the gap between traditional athletics and competitive gaming. This partnership, centered around none other than Super Smash Bros. icon mang0, champions a healthier future for every kind of competitor, from casual players to world-class pros.

For over 60 years, Mueller has helped traditional athletes bounce back faster, perform better and stay healthy longer. Now, the same science-backed innovation is being introduced to a new arena: competitive gaming. With Mueller’s most advanced recovery tools — like the REVIVE pneumatic compression system and performance

compression sleeves — now in mang0’s hands, the mission is clear: empower gamers to perform at their best, recover smarter and play longer.

Throughout the partnership, mang0 and Mueller aim to redefine esports wellness–creating a path where gamers are equipped with the tools and knowledge to prioritize their health and take control of their performance through sustainable habits.

Mueller Sports Medicine is a long-time supporter and member of NSGA. The late Curt Mueller is a member of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.

CHAMPRO ANNOUNCES NEXT RECIPIENTS OF TEAMWORK GRANT PROGRAM

CHAMPRO announced the latest recipients of its spring round of the Teamwork Grant Program, which supports youth teams, leagues and organizations that might otherwise lack sufficient funding. The following eight recipients were selected:

• City of Clarion, Iowa

• Easthampton Little League in Easthampton, Massachusetts

• Indiana Central Little League in Indianapolis

• Laporte JO Volleyball in Laporte, Michigan

• Marina City Junior Football in East China, Michigan

• Rochester Area Club Lacrosse in Rochester, Minnesota

• TROY (Truly Reviving Our Youth) Center in Fresno, California

• Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckly, West Virginia

“CHAMPRO is honored to assist these dedicated programs in their mission to mentor, empower and train the youth in their community,” said Bill Hunt, CEO and founder of CHAMPRO. “Every child deserves the opportunity to play their favorite sport, learn what it means to be on a team, and carry those leadership and life skills with them for the rest of their lives. We’d like to thank every organization who applied to this grant for their hard work.”

Of all team sports participants, only 6.5% come from households with incomes of less than $25,000 annually while 66% come from households with incomes of $75,000 or more, according to NSGA’s annual Sports Participation in the U.S. report. CHAMPRO aims to open up access to team sports for kids in under-resourced communities across the country with its Teamwork Grant Program.

“Making team sports more accessible to all is a top priority for us,” Hunt said. “We’re excited to open up the next round of applications and continue the Teamwork Grant Program for many more rounds to come.”

teams to celebrate or commemorate players, recognize sponsors, highlight a new uniform design and more. MiniJerzeys® are fully customizable and offer a variety of options including name/number personalization, custom colors and designs and finishes including different display stands or mini hangers.

IAS Branding is a NSGA member.

STARTER BECOMES OFFICIAL APPAREL PARTNER OF BIG3 BASKETBALL LEAGUE

BIG3, the global 3-on-3 basketball league, and Starter, the iconic sports apparel brand, have announced a groundbreaking partnership that will redefine the look and feel of 3-on-3 basketball.

produce all fan merchandise and offer game-quality jersey replicas for the first time. Fans can also expect limited edition merchandise and capsule collections for different BIG3 events throughout the season.

Starter is a supporter of NSGA and founder David Beckerman is a member of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.

RIDDELL ACQUIRES XENITH ASSETS

Football helmet and equipment manufacturer Riddell announced it acquired the assets of Xenith, which paused operations on January 10, 2025. The news that Xenith was “officially a part of Riddell Sports” was shared on social media accounts of both companies and confirmed in a statement from a Riddell spokesperson.

CHAMPRO is a member and supporter of NSGA. Bill Hunt is a member of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.

IAS BRANDING PARTNERS WITH MINIJERZEYS®

IAS Branding entered an exclusive partnership with MiniJerzeys® to provide collectable, miniature sublimated replica jerseys to NFL, NBA, MLS, WNBA, and AAPB organizations.

At about 8 inches tall, MiniJerzerys® are designed for gameday or event giveaways, at a competitive price point. They are highly collectable and allow

Through a substantial deal, Starter will be the official apparel partner of the BIG3 and will work together with the league to create custom product, including state-of-the-art player uniforms and an exclusive fan apparel line that embodies the spirit and dynamism of the league. For the first time, fans can look forward to all-new BIG3 x Starter merchandise featuring each city-based team, with availability expected in the coming weeks.

This collaboration signals a thrilling resurgence for Starter, bringing its legendary style and quality to the forefront of a league that’s capturing the hearts of a new generation. This landmark partnership will highlight Starter’s dedication to crafting high-performance apparel that honors the game’s rich history while pushing the boundaries of contemporary design.

The apparel brand will create a full lineup of unique product for the league’s eight all-new teams, including jerseys, warmup gear, travel sets and other exclusive items. Starter will also

“As the market leader in football helmet technology and protective equipment, Riddell remains committed to advancing the game through innovation that prioritizes athlete protection and performance across all levels,” the statement from Riddell said. “Earlier this year, Xenith announced plans to cease operations. Recognizing a shared commitment to athlete protection and product excellence, Riddell has acquired Xenith’s assets effective today.

“Several Xenith technologies and products have been well-regarded in the football community, and Riddell will evaluate opportunities to incorporate them into our portfolio to further enhance our offerings. We appreciate Xenith’s contributions to the sport and look forward to continuing to serve the football community with the highest standards of innovation and care.”

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Xenith made the announcement to pause operations in mid-December 2024. The Detroit-based company was founded in 2004 by former Harvard University quarterback and doctor Vin Ferrara, according to a 2010 story in Harvard Magazine.

S & S ACTIVEWEAR MAKES EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS

will build efficiencies across the commercial team while streamlining operations and driving sustainable growth.

S & S ACTIVEWEAR SIGNS TWO EXCLUSIVE AGREEMENTS

Riddell is a member of NSGA. Riddell was founded in 1929 by John T. Riddell, who is a member of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.

PRIME LINE RE-LAUNCHES HARD GOODS BUSINESS

Prime Line, a division of S&S Activewear focused on high-quality, innovative hard goods in the promotional products industry, announced its relaunch following the appointment of industry veteran Eric Levin in November 2024.

As part of the relaunch, Prime Line is instating:

• Exclusive Hard Goods Assortment: A comprehensive selection of best-selling and new, on-trend products for distributors and end-customer favorites.

• Dedicated Prime Line Sales & Support Teams: Industry veterans at all levels, including inside sales, outside sales and customer service focused solely on supporting distributors with product expertise and strategic solutions.

• Enhanced Digital Experience: A redesigned PrimeLine.com website that makes finding the right assortment for any need easier than ever.

• Industry-Leading Service & Support: Faster response times, streamlined order processes, and a renewed commitment to distributor success.

S&S Activewear is a member and supporter of NSGA.

S&S Activewear, a technology-enabled distributor of apparel and accessories in North America, announced the appointment of three senior executives to strengthen its commercial leadership team: Jim Sturgell as senior vice president of sales, Nick Blannin as senior vice president of merchandising and Bill Topf as senior vice president of commercial strategy and operations.

Sturgell joins S&S Activewear with more than 30 years of experience in the foodservice industry, most recently serving as executive vice president and chief commercial officer at US Foods, one of the largest foodservice distributors in the U.S., with more than $38 billion in revenue. In his new role, Sturgell will lead the sales team to deliver on sales plans, build deeper customer partnerships and drive a transparent, accountable and empowered sales culture.

Blannin brings extensive experience in merchandising and building apparel brands globally across e-commerce, retail and wholesale. He most recently served as vice president of global merchandising at Under Armour and previously worked in merchandising at Abercrombie & Fitch. In his new role, Blannin will lead the merchandising team to shape a competitive product assortment strategy, leverage product choices to drive customer engagement and build effective relationships with mill partners.

Topf joins S&S Activewear with deep experience as both a management consultant at Booz Allen & Hamilton and in senior leadership roles at Diageo, where he held several SVP positions in commercial strategy, planning and analytics. As SVP of commercial strategy and operations at S&S Activewear, Topf

S&S Activewear announced the expansion of its portfolio through exclusive agreements with vineyard vines and Marmot. These additions deepen S&S’s extensive retail offerings and reflect the company’s continued focus on bringing customers the most sought-after apparel in the industry.

Vineyard vines brings a collection of laid-back, elevated styles inspired by the coastal lifestyle — from iconic polos and outerwear to bags and headwear. With this new partnership, S&S is now able to offer vineyard vines products across its entire customer base.

Marmot bolsters S&S’s presence in the performance and outdoor category with a line of technical outerwear and gear built for serious conditions. Known for its quality and durability, Marmot is ideal for customers seeking premium products that can handle the elements — making it perfect for outdoor retailers, corporate gifting and active lifestyle programs.

S&S Activewear is a NSGA supporter.

CCM X ERIN AMBROSE 23 LAUNCH 2025 COLLECTION

CCM Hockey and Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) hockey star Erin Ambrose are taking their collaboration to the next level as they return with a powerful new iteration of CCM x Erin Ambrose 23. This limited-edition collection co-created by the number 23 of the Montréal Victoire celebrates the

evolution of hockey and the powerful connections between the game, the players and the fans. The collaboration shines a light on Erin’s influence and support of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities on and off the ice.

The second drop features new limited-edition apparel, from graphic tees to stylish hoodies and joggers, and adds new style and support to the first collection. It is a call to make hockey a space for self-expression that welcomes everyone.

Ambrose, an Olympic gold medalist, three-time world champion and the reigning PWHL Defender of the Year, embodies a new era of hockey: unapologetic, inclusive and proud.

CCM x Erin Ambrose 23 wants everyone to claim their place in hockey — on the ice, in the stands and everywhere the sport lives and breathes. Available in limited quantities online and in select stores, the collection offers a chance for fans to express what hockey means to them and show their support, and it’s never felt this real.

CCM is a member of the Hockey Dealers Association (HDA).

NEW ERA CAP, MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER

ANNOUNCE NEW ON-FIELD CAP PARTNERSHIP

New Era Cap, LLC and Major League Soccer (MLS) announced an agreement that names New Era Cap as the Official On-Field Cap of MLS. This grants the international sports and lifestyle brand with rights to produce and distribute headwear and apparel for all

30 MLS clubs including San Diego FC, which made its debut in 2025.

Over the past several years MLS has seen remarkable growth in the U.S. and Canada, and with the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, for the next two years North America will be the epicenter of global soccer. Both New Era and MLS are focused on harnessing this momentum to drive the continued growth and expansion of the sport during the most exciting time in North American soccer history. Together, they will engage both new and existing fans by introducing new products and creating authentic experiences that will leave a lasting impact both on and off the pitch.

Beginning this summer, fans will find fresh new looks as the partnership takes root. New Era Cap will launch new collections as part of the adidas x MLS Archive Collection as well as the MLS All-Star Game and MLS Cup Final presented by Audi. New Era will also debut additional MLS headwear and apparel products for everyday wear.

In recent years, New Era has expanded its portfolio of licenses in global soccer, building on the legacy it established with the major U.S. leagues to foster fan engagement and shape culture in partnership with many of the biggest brands in international soccer. New Era and several MLS clubs have worked together previously to create licensed products, both headwear and apparel. The impact of this new agreement grows even wider, as ’47 — now part of New Era’s family of brands — will also have product available for MLS clubs.

The announcement between MLS and New Era Cap arrives during a period of great momentum behind the sport of soccer in North America. As MLS is underway in its 30th season, the U.S. is also preparing to host the Concacaf Gold Cup and FIFA Club World Cup taking place in 2025, as well as the FIFA World Cup across the U.S., Canada and Mexico in 2026.

UNITED FOOTBALL LEAGUE PARTNERS WITH NEW ERA

The United Football League (UFL) announced that New Era will become the Official Sideline Cap and On-Field Headwear Provider for the spring league and all eight of its teams.

As part of this multi-tiered partnership, New Era will serve as the co-presenting partner of the UFL Conference Championships. In addition, the brand will be the Official Cap of the league’s major events, including UFL Kickoff Weekend and the UFL Championship Game. New Era recently served as the presenting partner for the UFL Kickoff Weekend.

Fans will be able to purchase the new UFL x New Era Sideline collection at the UFL Shop and across major retail outlets. Throughout the season, besides players and coaches donning New Era caps, the company will be featured on signage during television broadcasts of UFL games, custom digital content across league media assets, in-venue signage, and product integration at the UFL HQ in Arlington and at all UFL postgame press conferences.

EASTON UNVEILS NEW BATS

Easton Diamond Sports announced an all-new, upgraded version of the hottest fastpitch bat in the game. Featuring cutting-edge technology and a bold red-and-black design, the Ghost Advanced is available for purchase on Easton.com starting May 29 and at all retailers on June 5.

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Launching in conjunction with the 2025 Women’s College World Series, this bat release represents the first time Easton has anchored a bat launch around 2 top NIL athletes, partnering with Texas Tech’s standout pitcher and hitter NiJaree Canady in her pursuit of a national championship, and Arkansas’ Bri Ellis, the 2025 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year, and the nation’s top hitter, to highlight the Ghost Advanced performance in their historic seasons.

The 2026 Ghost Advanced is Easton’s most optimized bat yet, featuring patented Double Barrel 3 construction for a larger sweet spot and the advanced Sonic Comp Max composite for explosive pop and durability. Its high-performing, ultra-durable material achieves the lowest barrel compression for peak power with every swing.

The bat also enhances comfort with the Power Boost Soft Knob, improving leverage and reducing vibration, while the ConneXion Evolution two-piece connection maximizes energy transfer and forgiveness on mishits.

The Easton Ghost Franchise is the #1 Performance Fastpitch Softball Bat Series*, dominating Women’s College World Series history and trusted by professional players, travel ball programs, and D1 college teams across the country.

The 2026 Easton Ghost Advanced fastpitch bat is certified for USA, USSSA (fastpitch only), NSA, ISA, and WBSC play, and is available in -8, -9, -10, and -11. Easton Diamond Sports has launched “The DUB,” a completely new generation of composite performance featuring first of its kind and innovative double barrel construction. “The DUB” is the only USSSA certified double-wall bat on the market, and this is the first time Easton has incorporated this advanced technology into a baseball bat.

“The DUB” offers USSSA players maximum performance with unique double barrel construction combining a

thinner, lower compression outer barrel to create more barrel flex across the length of the entire barrel; with an inner barrel to govern performance directly at the USSSA allowed limit.

The technology that changed fastpitch is now coming to baseball, and many Easton loyalists will connect the dots between “The DUB” and the highly successful Ghost Double Barrel fastpitch bat franchise, which has been named the No. 1 Performance Fastpitch Bat Series on the market.

“The DUB” features a two-piece composite construction that maximizes barrel flex while keeping vibration to a minimum. It features a ConneXion Max elastomer connection piece to interlock the handle to the barrel, ensuring smooth and powerful contact. The massive sweet spot allows for solid contact and maximum power even on mis-hits. Additionally, “The DUB” uses an Optiflex handle which is specifically engineered to each size and drop weight of the bat to provide the hitter a perfect balance between flex and stiffness, leading to improved barrel control and raw power.

Early testing by top players and travel ball organizations across the country have seen significant performance improvements across the board. The 2026 DUB is expected to be a top choice along with the No. 1 Performance USSSA bat, the Easton Hype Fire.

Easton Diamond Sports is a subsidiary of Rawlings, a member and supporter of NSGA.

WOMEN’S RUNNING BRAND OISELLE

Women’s running brand Oiselle announced it is now a woman-owned

company. This milestone comes after the brand welcomed new leadership in late 2023 and received a majority investment from long-time proponent and runner, Margo Cramer.

The appointment of current CEO Arielle Knutson in October 2023 marked a turning point for Oiselle. Under her leadership, the brand re-focused on its core mission: The transformative power of running for women and community. The brand has also seen significant gains in its membership and community-focused programs. In 2024 the company revived strategic wholesale partnerships, resulting in double digit percentage growth in wholesale and overall revenue.

Cramer’s investment represents more than financial backing — it symbolizes Oiselle’s unwavering commitment to remaining a brand powered by women. As a lifelong runner from Seattle, Cramer’s passion for the sport, industry experience and belief in Oiselle’s vision make her a natural partner for the brand’s next phase.

PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM TO ACQUIRE SKECHERS

Skechers U.S.A., Inc., a Fortune 500 company and the third-largest footwear company in the world, announced that it has agreed to be acquired by 3G Capital, a global investment firm built on an owner-operator approach to long-term investing. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025.

One of the largest founder-led consumer product companies in the world with $9 billion in annual sales, Skechers’ significant growth over the past 30 years has been driven by a relentless focus on delivering style,

comfort, quality, and innovation at an affordable price. Known as the Comfort Technology Company®, Skechers is a growth-oriented, product-driven brand with a diverse distribution network, and highly loyal customers and consumers.

Following the completion of the transaction, Skechers said it will continue to execute its ongoing strategic initiatives, including designing award-winning and innovative product, international development, direct-to-consumer expansion, domestic wholesale growth, and strategic investments in global distribution, infrastructure and technology. This transaction, which was unanimously approved by the Skechers board of directors, including an independent committee of independent directors, is a transformational long-term partnership opportunity for Skechers to further evolve as a global leader in both lifestyle and performance footwear, according to the release from the company.

Skechers’ senior management team will lead that transition alongside 3G Capital and will continue to be led by Chairman and CEO Robert Greenberg, President Michael Greenberg and the rest of the current management team. It will remain headquartered in its hometown of Manhattan Beach, California where it was founded more than 30 years ago.

Under the terms of the definitive merger agreement, 3G Capital has agreed to pay $63.00 per share in cash for all outstanding shares of Skechers, representing a premium of 30% to Skechers’ 15-day volume-weighted average stock price. The transaction includes the option for existing shareholders of Skechers to instead receive $57.00 in cash and one unlisted, non-transferable equity unit in a newly-formed, privately held company that, following the closing of the transaction, will be the parent company of Skechers. The Skechers Board formed an independent committee of independent

directors to evaluate the transaction. The independent committee reviewed, negotiated, unanimously approved and recommended the transaction for approval by the Skechers Board. Following approval by the Skechers Board, the Merger Agreement was signed.

Skechers stockholders holding approximately 60% of the combined voting power of the outstanding shares of Skechers common stock have approved the transaction by written consent. As a result, no further actions by other Skechers stockholders will be required to approve the transaction. The transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including receipt of regulatory approvals.

The transaction will be financed through a combination of cash provided by 3G Capital as well as debt financing that has been committed by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Upon completion of the transaction, the Company’s common stock will no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange, and Skechers will become a private company.

at the championships in Naples or on Wilson.com starting April 26.

Wilson Sporting Goods is a longtime member of NSGA.

THE ATHLETE’S FOOT PROMOTES LAFONE TO CEO

The Athlete’s Foot (TAF) promoted Matt Lafone to the company’s new Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Lafone, who previously served as President and General Manager of the Americas, will transition into this critical global leadership role immediately. This move marks a key milestone in TAF’s commitment to a unified global vision while continuing to prioritize the needs of local markets worldwide.

Skechers’ chairman, CEO and founder Robert Greenberg is a member of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.

WILSON ANNOUNCES FIRST PICKLEBALL SPONSORSHIP

Wilson Sporting Goods announced its first official sponsorship in pickleball with the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships in a LinkedIn post. Wilson will be the official paddle and sportswear provider of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships on April 26May 3 in Naples, Florida. Wilson said it will launch its Vesper™ pickleball paddle collection that can be purchased

Since joining TAF in 2021, Lafone has been an exceptional leader. As President and General Manager of the Americas, he has driven outstanding results, including a 45% increase in regional revenue — contributing $272.1 million to the 2024 overall performance. Under his leadership, the Americas region not only thrived in a challenging retail environment, but also helped propel TAF’s global sales by 10%, reaching $554 million. His appointment as Global CEO aligns with the company’s strategy to build on this success.

A core element of this strategy is the establishment of the TAF Global Center of Excellence in Atlanta, which will support both Direct-to-Consumer channels and franchise partners globally, driving innovation and optimizing operational efficiencies across TAF’s global network. The new center, which will be located in the same space as the recently opened Flagship location on the Atlanta Beltline, will focus on enhancing brand management, global merchandising, planning, marketing, finance and store operations.

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It will also play a pivotal role in driving eCommerce strategy and content creation, acting as a support center for international franchise partners. Through this initiative, TAF aims to optimize procurement processes and strengthen financial management, all while maintaining a cohesive and unified global strategy.

Lafone is energized and ready to lead The Athlete’s Foot into a bold new era. As he steps into the global CEO role, his vision is clear: drive innovation, strengthen collaboration, and elevate the brand’s impact worldwide.

PUMA NAMES NEW CEO, CCO

The Supervisory Board of PUMA SE has appointed Arthur Hoeld as Chairman of the Management Board and CEO of PUMA SE, effective July 1, 2025. Arne Freundt, CEO of PUMA SE, and the Supervisory Board have mutually agreed that Fruendt will step down as CEO on April 11, 2025, due to differing views on strategy execution and will leave the company after 14 years in various leading positions.

Matthias Bäumer, Vice President of PUMA’s Business Unit Teamsport, was appointed as Chief Commercial Officer of PUMA SE, effective April 1, 2025. From April 12 until July 1, 2025, the Management Board will consist of Maria Valdes (Chief Product Officer), Markus Neubrand (Chief Financial Officer) and Bäumer. They have the full trust of the Supervisory Board to lead the company together in this transition phase, according to a PUMA release.

The 55-year-old Hoeld was Executive Board member of adidas responsible for Global Sales until October 2024. A true sports fanatic, ex-handball player and track & field athlete, he joined adidas in 1998 and held various leadership positions within the sports company, including roles in marketing, brand strategy and management leadership of the Europe, Middle East and Africa regions. Hoeld also successfully transformed the adidas’ “Originals” division to generate more than 7 billion Euros in sales.

In his new role of PUMA’s Chief Commercial Officer, the 59-year-old Bäumer will oversee the company’s sales subsidiaries, its global Directto-Consumer and Go-To Market organizations. Bäumer has been with PUMA since 2007 and most recently worked as the Vice President of PUMA’s fastest growing Global Business Unit Teamsport. Until 2020, he was General Manager of Central Europe, PUMA’s important home market. His successor as Vice President Teamsport will be announced shortly.

CIELE

Ciele Athletics Inc., the Montreal-based performance running brand, appointed Jano Arabaghian as Chief Executive Officer. Arabaghian, a seasoned leader with a track record across some of the world’s most influential brands, steps into this newly created role as Ciele enters a pivotal phase of expansion and cultural impact in the running space. With extensive leadership experience at Red Bull, The North Face, Oakley and Vans, Arabaghian brings a rare blend of global brand vision and deep

commercial insight. He served most recently as head of action-sports sales for Vans North America and previously as general manager of Vans Canada, where he was instrumental in driving growth, expanding brand reach and forging key retail and community partnerships.

DICK’S SPORTING GOODS TO ACQUIRE FOOT LOCKER

DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc., and Foot Locker, Inc., announced they have entered into a definitive merger agreement where DICK’S will acquire Foot Locker. This transaction implies an equity value of approximately $2.4 billion and an enterprise value of approximately $2.5 billion.

Foot Locker has a strong history of sneaker expertise through its portfolio of brands, including Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, WSS and atmos. It encompasses approximately 2,400 retail stores across 20 countries in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and a licensed store presence in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. In 2024, Foot Locker achieved net worldwide sales of $8 billion. DICK’S expects to operate Foot Locker as a standalone business unit within its portfolio and maintain the Foot Locker brands.

DICK’s Ed Stack (Class of 2006) and Foot Locker’s Floyd Huff (Class of 1999) and Ralph Parks (Class of 2000) are members of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame.

ATHLETICS NAMES FIRST CEO

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT NOW

GIVE ME 5 WITH SCOTT ALLEGRINI

General Manager, LAS VEGAS SOURCE FOR HOCKEY | Las Vegas, NV

1

HOCKEY OPPORTUNITY WAS NO GAMBLE

In 2007 when I sold my business an opportunity to go to work full-time as the Hockey Director for a rink in Southern California where I was a youth coach and club board member became available. The owner was looking for someone to take that role that not only had a base of hockey knowledge but also a business background. As someone who has been around the game my whole life as a player, coach and fan, it was an opportunity that I could not pass up.

3 STANDING OUT IN A GROWING MARKET

As the longest established hockey pro shop in Las Vegas we have been fortunate to establish a strong and loyal customer base even with other stores having entered the market. We have done that with superior customer service, strong consistent inventory and regular marketing and promotions. Our Source For Hockey partnership and branding has also helped us stand out and maintain our standing within the market.

4

UNCERTAINTY FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON

2 A GOLDEN BOOST TO VEGAS

How has the Las Vegas Golden Knights shaped the market and your business in the area?

The arrival of the Knights and their immediate on-ice success has been a tremendous influence within the market as it has brought hockey to the forefront of the Vegas sports landscape. The double-digit annual growth of people participating in not only hockey but ice-related activities in general has helped us significantly grow all facets of our business.

My biggest concern at this time for 2025 is the uncertainty we are faced with due to the ongoing tariff/trade war issues currently being presented. This issue is rapidly escalating and impacting all facets of our business from pricing (both wholesale and retail), which is causing us to either seek new sources for some products to potentially having to increase our inventory levels. Supply chain challenges with vendors temporarily ceasing shipments from China and/or Canada and shipping costs rising are another byproduct of the current landscape that is creating concern. Lastly, the effect that all this uncertainty and its impact on consumer confidence and purchasing decisions still remain to be seen.

5

BIG VALUE FROM HDA AND NSGA

The resources and support that is provided from the Hockey Dealers Association (HDA) and NSGA has been the biggest benefit in my opinion. The access to the market research and reporting that we receive is a tremendous asset. Merge that with our Source For Hockey membership with the Sports Distributors of Canada and the value that is provided is immeasurable.