Sept. 25, 2008
For Immediate Release
Contact: Staci Schottman, NAIA Director of Public Relations & Communications, 816-595-8116
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced today that Wilson Sporting Goods will continue its status as the “Official Tennis Ball, Racquet and Accessory of the NAIA” effective through July 31, 2012. Wilson will provide tennis balls for the NAIA men’s and women’s tennis conference, independent and national championship events. In accordance with the agreement, all tennis balls used at these events will feature both the ‘Wilson US Open’ and NAIA logos.
“We are pleased to partner with Wilson as the official ball supplier for NAIA tennis events. Wilson’s exceptional service and high performance products will add to the proud tradition of the NAIA student-athlete experience,” said Jim Carr, NAIA President and CEO. “Wilson showcases superior products on the national stage at the U.S. Open and Australian Open and we are proud to align the NAIA brand with Wilson’s leading reputation.
In addition, Wilson will offer a discounted purchase program for all NAIA institutions. Through this Wilson Redemption Program, Men’s and Women’s coaches have the opportunity to enroll in a purchase rewards program and receive complimentary tennis equipment based on spending totals. All NAIA tennis coaches are invited to enroll by calling Wilson customer service at 1-800-272-6060. Wilson will also offer additional promotional programs throughout the year.
“Wilson and the NAIA share a long-standing commitment to the student-athlete and to collegiate tennis,” said Adam Schaechterle, Wilson’s Manager of Collegiate teams. “The NAIA organizes exceptional national events for collegiate tennis players and Wilson is excited to continue this partnership for years to come."
To learn more about Wilson Sporting Goods visit www.wilson.com.
About the NAIA
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, is the governing body for athletics programs at its nearly 300 colleges and universities throughout the United States and Canada. The long-held mission of the NAIA is to promote the education and development of well-rounded students and productive citizens through intercollegiate athletics. The Association offers equitable access and opportunities for participation in its 23 national championship events held annually throughout the country.
Today, the NAIA strengthens its commitment to student-athletes and strives to enrich their college experience by supporting academic achievement and character development. NAIA Champions of Character is the association’s innovative flagship program designed to instill character values in student-athletes, coaches and youth in the communities it serves.
About Wilson
Wilson Racquet Sports is a division of Chicago-based Wilson Sporting Goods, one of the world's leading manufacturers of sports equipment. Wilson Sporting Goods® is the official tennis ball, racquet, and accessory supplier of the NAIA® and NCAA® Division I, II, and III tennis championships, including being the Official Tennis Ball of the US Open since 1979.
