United Team Dealers: Independent Businesses Working Together While Keeping Relationships at the Center

NORTH WILKESBORO, NORTH CAROLINA and VALPARAISO, INDIANA (February 17, 2026) – Across the sporting goods industry, the landscape continues to evolve — and independent team dealers are finding new and improved ways to serve their local communities with the personal attention that has always defined the team sports business.

That’s the purpose behind United Team Dealers (UTD), a national network of independent team dealers who have come together to collaborate, share resources, and support one another — while remaining firmly rooted in the local relationships that make their businesses unique.

“We chose this business because we enjoy working directly with schools, coaches, athletes, and families,” said Allen Reynolds, President of United Team Dealers and Team Sales Manager of Cook’s Sporting Goods in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. “We’re proud of the trust we’ve built in our communities, and we want to continue delivering that same personalized experience as the industry changes.”

UTD was created to thrive in a marketplace where expectations are rising — from faster turnaround times and improved technology to larger product offerings. Rather than facing those challenges alone, UTD members unite to drive growth, improve performance, and enhance the overall customer experience, according to Reynolds.

Through collaboration, shared insight, and combined purchasing strength, independent dealers capture the scale advantages of a larger organization while preserving their independence and customer-first approach.

“We’re not trying to change who we are,” said Mike Blythe, Vice President of United Team Dealers and the owner of Blythe’s Team Sports in Valparaiso, Indiana. “We’re focused on helping each other improve and grow — while keeping the relationships and service model that our customers value most.”

United Team Dealers’ strength is further reinforced through its partnership with Sports, Inc., providing members with access to impactful programs, purchasing support, and long-term growth initiatives designed specifically for independent dealers. The relationship is built on shared commitment and mutual value, with UTD members actively engaged in shaping opportunities that enhance competitiveness and sustainability. UTD currently has 13 dealers in its group.

UTD also maintains a strong connection with the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA), recognizing its vital role in advocating for team sports and supporting the independent dealers who serve athletes and programs across the country.

“Local dealers are deeply connected to their communities,” Reynolds added. “UTD ensures we continue adapting, growing, and building long-term sustainability for independent businesses and the athletes and programs we support.”

Those interested in learning more about United Team Dealers can contact Allen Reynolds at Allen@cookssports.com or (336) 488-4727 or Mike Blythe at mblythe77@hotmail.com or (219) 405-3898. The website is unitedteamdealers.com.

Cook’s Sporting Goods and Blythe’s Team Sports are members of NSGA.