Ohio University, recently named the top team in our Hustle Belt Uniform Power Rankings, will be making a change in apparel provider for the upcoming season.
In a move expected to take place over the “next couple days,” all Ohio varsity sports will wear Adidas products, according to The Post Athens.
Charlie Hatch first reported the news.
Per Hatch’s report, the move was supposed to be announced in late December, which would have ran parallel to the Bobcats’ unexpected run to the MAC Championship. The report also stated that Ohio officials notified players of the change as far back as Nov. 2016.
Ohio is the only Mid-American Conference school to have an apparel deal with a non-Big Three (Nike, Adidas, Under Armour) apparel brand.
The deal is reportedly for eight years with a potential two-year extension. Currently, Ohio is paid by Russell Athletic to wear its gear, receiving approximately $397,500 per year as part of the deal signed prior to the 2007 season.
The Russell Athletics deal also included various cash incentives for bowl appearances, national titles and inclusive advertising.
It’s unknown how much the deal is worth, but similar contracts with other Mid-American Conference schools usually involve fees the school pays to the provider.
The transition in providers is expected to take place this July.