Adidas have entered into a five-year partnership with Eastern Illinois University. Adidas becomes the official athletic footwear, apparel and accessory brand of the Panthers through the 2019 season. Nike previously outfitted the school.
ADVERTISEMENT Adidas is to supply the Panthers athletic programs with all game and practice uniforms, travel and practice gear, beginning this Fall.
"We are very excited, for our coaches, our student-athletes and our fans to begin a partnership with Adidas. I want to personally thank EIU Senior Associate AD Mark Bonnstetter for taking the lead on this project and helping us with the apparel sponsorship process," said Dan Nadler, EIU vice president for student Affairs who has served as the Panthers interim athletic director since late April. "Eastern Illinois entire athletic program has experienced great success on the field and on the court during the past few years, and it is only fitting that we start a new partnership with one of the most iconic names in sports."
Tom Michael, who is to assume his role as the Panthers new athletic director on Aug. 11, said: "Adidas is one of the top athletic brands in the world and we are excited to be a part of it. It speaks volumes for the success that has been created by everyone associated with EIU Athletics. For Eastern Illinois to be affiliated with one of the top apparel brands is just one of the many steps needed in attracting the top student-athletes to our programs. As a brand Adidas brings instant recognition whether it's through its partnership with the NBA or the recently completed Soccer World Cup."
Mark Daniels, director of team sports for Adidas America, said: “Everything we do at Adidas is about helping athletes perform better, and we’re excited to bring that mentality to Eastern Illinois University over the next five years. We’re outfitting all men’s and women’s teams in our latest and most innovative footwear, apparel and uniforms so the Panthers can continue to compete at their highest level.”
Adidas is the official uniform, footwear and apparel provider for more than 70 collegiate programs including: Michigan, Texas A&M, Nebraska, Kansas, Louisville, Tennessee, UCLA and Wisconsin. Adidas also has marketing agreements with the National Basketball Association and Major League Soccer.
