Nike expands US college portfolio with Toledo deal

The athletics division of the University of Toledo has agreed a partnership with US sportswear company Nike.

The six-year deal will run from the 2017-18 season through to the end of 2022-23.

Under the agreement, Nike will serve as the official athletic apparel, footwear, accessory and equipment provider of all 16 varsity sports programme at the university.

The University of Toledo Athletic Department previously had separate deals in place with various brands for its sports teams.

Mike O’Brien, vice-president of the university and athletics director, said: “Nike is one of the most recognisable and innovative brands in the world, so we feel this partnership will be very beneficial for our program. Partnering with Nike will also create a consistent brand for our Athletic Department.”

Nike also has partnerships in place with a host of other colleges and universities in the US, including Central Florida, Illinois, San Diego State, Western Kentucky and Wichita State.