As part of an ongoing commitment to give back, Hibbett has once again teamed up with Nike this year to award high school athletic programs nationwide.
Through their 2023 “Sole School” program, now in its eighth year, Hibbett and Nike have awarded 103 high schools and more than 2,500 students nationwide with a combination of in-kind donations, product, mentoring and job opportunities, valued at more than $650,000.
According to the Birmingham, Ala.-based retailer, these donations went to support each school’s basketball program, with funds allocated for team gear, travel costs, athletic equipment and other necessities. Schools also received Hibbett and City Gear swag and mentoring from local leadership.
Ben Knighten, SVP of operations at Hibbett, said in a statement that the company is “proud” of its “grassroots” Sole School program, as it remains committed to strengthening connection with schools in the communities it serves. “We developed the Sole School initiative as a multi-faceted way to make a meaningful impact for student athletes by not only offering funds but also connecting them with our local leaders to develop a plan for the future,” Knighten said.
Victor Hunt Jr., athletic director and head football coach at Warren County High School in North Carolina, which was part of the Sole School program’s recipient list this year, noted that Hibbett provided the school much needed support.
“Being selected as a Sole School means the world to the Freeport High School boys basketball program and it will have a significant impact on our mission and the lives of the players,” Coach Jackson, at Freeport High School in Illinois, added. “Hibbett’s commitment to the Boys Basketball program is truly admirable, and we are incredibly thankful for the positive difference they are making in our community.”
This latest news follows a renewed relationship between Nike and Hibbett as the athletic and footwear company looks to bolster its wholesale business.
In October, the duo took their relationship one step further with the launch of a new loyalty program. The result was a fully integrated Hibbett Rewards x Nike Membership program aimed at providing Hibbett shoppers with a host of new benefits and retail experiences when they purchase Nike and Jordan products at a Hibbett store or online.
Nike launched a similar membership program with Dick’s Sporting Goods in 2021.
