Spider apparel to be sold by Dick's Sporting Goods

University of Richmond merchandise is now available at local Dick's Sporting Goods stores after a nearly three-year effort to secure a licensing partnership.

All four Richmond Dick's Sporting Goods locations, including Chesterfield Town Center, Short Pump Town Center, Stony Point Fashion Park and The Creeks at Virginia Center Commons, are currently advertising T-shirts commemorating the Spider men's basketball team's participation in the 2010 NCAA tournament.

"I believe having University of Richmond gear available at Dick's Sporting Goods gives our fans and the public an additional avenue to purchase University of Richmond merchandise," said Jessica Morrall, University of Richmond collegiate licensing manager.

Not only does the merchandise benefit the public, but it also helps the university and students. They receive royalties for the right to use Richmond logos, based on the number of products sold. These profits go directly toward funding University of Richmond student scholarships, she said.

"It is good to see that the school is getting some publicity after the success of our sports teams this year," said freshman Gregory Lauritano. "Our Division I sports are downplayed, and this is an excellent opportunity for Richmond's athletic program to be recognized."

The response to Spider merchandise at Dick's Sporting Goods has been positive. The first shipment of NCAA tournament T-shirts has already been completely sold at all local Dick's Sporting Goods.

"We expect to continue our new partnership with Dick's Sporting Goods and to have more University of Richmond merchandise available soon," Morrall said.

Keep an eye out in the future for more Spider gear emerging from the sea of Hokie, Cavalier and Ram apparel in the collegiate section at Dick's Sporting Goods.

Contact reporter Erin Moyer at erin.moyer@richmond.edu.