This year, it seems college football has become more of a fashion show than an athletic competition.
New uniforms are constantly on display each week, from the neon colors of the Oregon Ducks to the warlike image of the Michigan State Spartans.
It seems fans and players alike are more concerned with how the uniforms look and feel than the actual games. But these uniforms are more than just a fashion statement. They can be used as a recruitment tool.
So much more attention has been garnished to these teams in the first few weeks, and it hasn’t always been because of their outstanding play.
N.C . State’s new uniforms have been anything but memorable. The problem is State is not taking advantage of an opportunity to help improve and expand its recruiting process.
Both basketball and football contracts with Adidas expire at the end of this school year and there has been talk that the Wolfpack is considering new contracts with Under Armour or Nike instead of re-signing with Adidas.
State’s contract talks are gaining attention throughout campus, and many students feel a change is needed. Spencer Stultz , a senior in parks, recreation and tourism management, is one of those students.
“Look at the publicity Maryland has received with their new Under Armour uniform,” Stultz said. “They may have been controversial, but it definitely garnished national attention.”
“Even if State could design a uniform half as flashy but gain the same national attention it could only help put NC State in the spotlight for potential recruits.”
The University should seriously consider each brand and not harbor any feelings for Adidas just because they are our current sponsor. Their uniforms have not been even remotely close to mind-blowing.
Adidas does not have the reputation or merchandise that Nike or even Under Armour have. Sara Sweeting , a senior in agricultural sciences, feels Nike’s reputation is its best selling point.
“State should sign with Nike,” Sweeting said. “Because its quality gear, it’s worth the price and will last forever. I only buy Nike athletic equipment. Nike is a better-known brand for athletic apparel and potential recruits will be more drawn to Nike than Adidas.”
“Adidas is known for being a soccer brand, not a football brand.”
There are many factors recruits consider in deciding where to play college ball. Of course many recruits will not base their decision solely on the team’s uniforms, but if other factors such as money, location and academics are the same, then fan base, sponsorship and reputation will also become factors in the decision making process.
Brian Cerrito , a senior in animal science, agrees that a switch in sponsorships will benefit the University.
“Under Armour would give us more design options than Adidas,” Cerrito said. “Under Armour designs would energize the fan base, which in turn could help bring in more, higher-rated recruits.”
With State’s contract ending soon, the University should seriously consider the benefits of switching to a more exciting brand such as Nike or Under Armour. Not just for the flashy uniforms but for the impact such a switch could have on fans and recruits.
