Ripken Baseball has entered a multiyear partnership with Dick’s Sporting Goods to be the official sporting goods store of The Ripken Experience in Aberdeen, Maryland, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
As the official sporting goods store of Ripken Baseball, Dick’s will receive an integrated media plan and the opportunity to bring experiential elements from their stores to The Ripken Experience venues. The program is designed to increase the awareness of the company’s equipment, provide expert advice and offer players, coaches, and families special offers on merchandise and gear.
“This partnership aligns two incredible brands in the youth sports industry,” said Amanda Shank, vice president of business development for Ripken Baseball. “With an equal passion to grow America’s favorite pastime, this is more than a sponsorship relationship. Through Dick’s, our teams and families across the country will access the best selection and value on equipment so they’re ready to take the field.”
Dick’s will also be the first brand incorporated in the baseball organization’s inaugural multi-city Ripken Select tour. Ripken Select Tournaments will be staged in Illinois, Florida and Texas. Four Ripken Select Tournaments replicate the Ripken Experience that over 5,000 teams and 250,000 guests take part in at Ripken Baseball’s permanent facilities in Maryland, South Carolina and Tennessee.
“We’re excited to partner with Ripken Baseball and bring together two great brands to support youth athletes,” said Aimee Watters, senior director sports matter and community marketing for Dick’s Sporting Goods. “At Dick’s we understand that the right equipment can make all the difference to an athlete and are proud to offer the best selection to keep kids in the game.”