Photo: Kohlerphoto / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
Miami-Dade, FL - Miami-Dade County Public Schools announced a partnership with Adidas that will provide uniforms and sports gear to student athletes across the district while reducing costs for schools.
The five-year, $13.5 million agreement covers all 40 high schools in the Greater Miami Athletic Conference.
The district held a showcase at Traz Powell Stadium, where hundreds of athletes displayed their new Adidas uniforms, shoes, and equipment.
As part of the deal, the stadium has been renamed Adidas Field.
Superintendent Dr. Jose Dotres said the partnership highlights the district’s focus on developing athletic talent.
“From Miami-Dade County Public Schools, we provide a pipeline of talent into sports at the state and national level, promoting and supporting the incredible talent within MDCPS,” Dotres said.
Before the agreement, schools relied on fundraising or their own budgets to purchase team gear.
The new partnership eliminates that expense, allowing schools to redirect resources.
Adidas will also offer gear at discounted rates and gain exclusive rights to merchandise sales through a district-run online store.
Student athletes reacted positively to the new uniforms and equipment.
Genaia Davis, a flag football player at Homestead High School, said, “This gear is tough. I’ve been an Adidas fan for a long time, and it feels great to wear the uniform.”
Emmanuel Simmons, a cornerback at Northwestern High, added, “We look fly, we feel fly, and we’re playing fly for sure.”
District officials said it is difficult to calculate total savings since this is the first major corporate partnership of its kind, but the deal is expected to provide significant financial relief for schools and student athletes.