Fresno State Athletics
Fresno State Signs with Nike for All Sports Apparel
 |  Fresno State Athletics Director Scott Johnson announced a new all sports apparel agreement, which will have the Bulldogs wearing Nike beginning in the Fall of 2004. |
June 18, 2004
Fresno - Fresno State Athletics Director Scott Johnson announced today that Bulldog student-athletes will be wearing Nike apparel and shoes beginning with the 2004-05 school year.
The multi-sport deal is the first of its kind at the school, as Fresno State joins a prestigious list of universities wearing Nike apparel.
"We are very excited about this venture and joining forces with Nike," Johnson said. "Nike is recognized as the world leader in apparel and footwear. We are equally excited that this venture will have a positive economic impact for our department and provide high quality apparel and footwear for Bulldog student-athletes."
Beginning in the fall of 2004, Fresno State teams will be transitioning into Nike uniforms, training apparel and footwear. A variety of other products and equipment may be used by certain sports. For instance, Fresno State will use Nike footballs, basketballs, and selected golf equipment. Existing apparel contracts will be fulfilled before some Bulldog teams transition into Nike gear.
"Nike is thrilled to expand our relationship with Fresno State and enter into a multi-sport agreement with the Bulldogs," said Scott Zanon, Nike National Manager for Collegiate Promo Team Sales. "The Dogs have a rich tradition in athletics that we look forward to enhancing with our products for years to come. This is a win-win situation that provides student-athletes the opportunity to compete in Nike Head to Toe and we couldn't be happier."
Nike is a 31-year old company, based in Beaverton, Ore., that reported revenues of $10.7 billion in 2003. Nike has been a significant sports marketing force for two decades, with endorsement arrangements with such sports celebrities as Mia Hamm, Michael Jordan, Serena Williams and Tiger Woods.
'This agreement is going to provide our department more quality equipment and apparel at a reduced cost," Johnson added. "Another significant benefit is that all of our student-athletes will be afforded excellent training equipment and the teams will have a similar team look, which is very important to the marketing, branding and image of our entire department."