The Valparaiso University athletic department and Nike have entered into an agreement that will make Nike the official provider of Crusader uniforms and apparel beginning with the 2009-2010 school year.

“The opportunity to partner with Nike, the recognized leader in sports apparel and gear, speaks to the success that our programs have achieved over time,” Mark LaBarbera, Valparaiso University director of athletics said.  “We are always looking to provide our student-athletes with the best chances to compete successfully, and working with Nike/Impact Sports enables us to accomplish that.”

The agreement will bring all of the Crusader sports under the same agreement and brand for the first time.  Several Valpo athletic teams, including the basketball programs, have used Nike for uniforms, equipment, and apparel in the past, but this will mark the first time all 21 sports will be included in an agreement.  Impact Sports in Indianapolis, Ind. will serve as Valpo’s supplier of Nike products.

“Impact Sports is very excited to continue its association with Valparaiso University and pleased to be the company chosen to service the University’s Nike contract,” said Paul Brunelle, director of sales for the East Region of Impact Sports.  “We value this relationship and are honored to partner with such a quality institution.  We certainly applaud and admire the achievements of the school’s student-athletes and recognize the quality coaching and administration that foster this level of success.”

While the agreement goes into place at the beginning of the next school year, Crusader programs will have up to three seasons to implement the new uniforms, doing so as other existing contracts expire.