US Census Monthly Retail Trade Report – April 2026

DOWNERS GROVE, ILLINOIS (June 25, 2026) – According to the US Census Bureau’s Monthly Retail Trade Report, sales for sporting goods stores during the month of April reached $4.82 billion, representing an increase of 10.5 percent compared to the prior year. Thus far in 2026, YTD sales are up 6.6 percent vs. 2025.  Information for May will be available next month.  Important side note: As a reminder, in an effort to provide you with the most accurate data possible, NSGA waits until the data for … Continued

L2 Brands Acquires Wild Tribute

HANOVER, PENNSYLVANIA (June 23, 2026) – L2 Brands, a designer, manufacturer and distributor of premium apparel, headwear and accessories, announced the acquisition of Wild Tribute, a purpose-driven lifestyle brand known for its national park-inspired apparel and commitment to protecting America’s public lands. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded to honor the parks, … Continued

S + S Unveils New Brand Built to Help Customers Take Their Vision Further

BOLINGBROOK, ILLINOIS (June 24, 2026) – S&S Activewear announced its rebrand to S&S, reflecting the company’s evolution into a growth partner that helps customers succeed through a powerful combination of products, technology, service and business solutions. S&S introduced its new brand identity, featuring an updated logo and the tagline, “Take Your Vision Further,” to customers, supplier partners … Continued

Academy Extends Boys + Girls Clubs Partnership

KATY, TEXAS (June 23, 2026) – Academy Sports + Outdoors extended its national partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, reinforcing its focus on making a broad positive impact as well as deepening its commitments in the local communities it serves. The engagement, which began in 2025, remains focused on increasing access to sports and outdoor fun for youth … Continued

Mitchell Modell Making Industry Comeback

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK (June 22, 2026) – Everybody loves a comeback. This year, New York City is celebrating the Knicks’ long-awaited return to championship glory. Now, Mitchell B. Modell is celebrating a comeback of his own. After the bankruptcy of Modell’s Sporting Goods in 2020, Modell is returning to retail with the launch of MitchellModells.com, … Continued

NAIA Adds Women’s Flag Football

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI (June 19, 2026) – The National Administrative Council (NAC) of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has approved women’s flag football as the NAIA’s 30th championship sport, elevating the sport from invitational to championship status beginning with the 2026-27 academic year and culminating in the inaugural NAIA Women’s Flag Football National Championship … Continued

Columbia Sportswear Names New President of SOREL

PORTLAND, OREGON (June 18, 2026) – Columbia Sportswear Company announced that Joe Vernachio will be the next President of SOREL, effective June 22, 2026. Founded in 1962, SOREL is a leader in functional and lifestyle footwear that can be worn anywhere from the tundra to the streets of New York City. “We’re excited to welcome … Continued

NFHS Selects Davis Whitfield as New CEO

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA (June 17, 2026) — Davis Whitfield, who has served as chief operating officer (COO) of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) for the past 11 years, has been named chief executive officer (CEO) of the NFHS, effective August 1, 2026. Whitfield was among three finalists who were interviewed by the … Continued

S + S Activewear Adds Ariat to Portfolio

BOLINGBROOK, ILLINOIS (June 17, 2026) – S&S Activewear announced plans to add Ariat International to its expanding portfolio, with availability expected in Spring 2027. One of the most recognizable names in western and workwear apparel, Ariat will support S&S Activewear’s continued strategy of bringing customers brands with strong consumer demand while expanding access to growing categories … Continued

NFHS Shares Concern over Cuts from Budget Shortfalls

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA (June 15, 2026) – As the 2025-26 school year came to a close, several reports surfaced dealing with budget shortages in school districts that threatened a reduction or elimination of school-based athletics programs. From Wyoming to New Jersey and Pennsylvania – and other states in between – school leaders are trying to keep … Continued