Brand new football jerseys yield $60M to Michigan

7/14/2008
BY JOE VARDON
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
Made by adidas, which contracted with UM on an eight-year, $60 million licensing agreement last year, the home jersey appears to largely stick with tradition. They're the familiar blue with solid maize numbers. But a key difference in the Wolverines' road White jerseys is the maize stripe running from the neckline to the front of the shoulder and down the sleeve on the left and right sides.
Made by adidas, which contracted with UM on an eight-year, $60 million licensing agreement last year, the home jersey appears to largely stick with tradition. They're the familiar blue with solid maize numbers. But a key difference in the Wolverines' road White jerseys is the maize stripe running from the neckline to the front of the shoulder and down the sleeve on the left and right sides.

Michigan unveiled its new, authentic football jerseys yesterday that are both similar to, and remarkably different from, game shirts from years past.

Made by adidas, which contracted with UM on an eight-year, $60 million licensing agreement last year, the home jersey appears to largely stick with tradition. They're the familiar blue with solid maize numbers.

But a key difference in the Wolverines' road White jerseys is the maize stripe running from the neckline to the front of the shoulder and down the sleeve on the left and right sides.

The jerseys feature adidas' ClimaCool technology, and will be on sale at the M-Den and on-line beginning Aug. 1.

According to the school's Web site, Bo Schembechler's "Those who stay will be champions" motto is embroidered along the inside hem of the jersey. Also inside the jersey are silicone prints of the 42 Michigan Big Ten championship seasons, found in the shoulders.

"We have a long tradition of excellence in athletics at Michigan and are proud to be partners with a brand like adidas who understands the importance of honoring that heritage," UM athletic director Bill Martin said in a statement. "With the new adidas football uniforms, our student-athletes will benefit from the quality of the product, and players and fans alike can be proud to wear a jersey that celebrates Michigan football."

Michigan will open against Utah on August 30 at Michigan Stadium. The Wolverines also play host to Toledo on October 11 and finish at Ohio State on November 22.


Contact Joe Vardon at: jvardon@theblade.com or 419-410-5055.