The number three story in the countdown was one that made National News. The College of the Ozarks decided to no longer dress their athletes in Nike apparel.
In response to Nike’s support of Colin Kaepernick and the kneeling for the National Anthem controversy: The college, sticking to its core values, decided that it would no longer support the company.
“In their new ad campaign, we believe Nike executives are promoting an attitude of division and disrespect toward America,” said College of the Ozarks President Jerry C. Davis in a statement. “If Nike is ashamed of America, we are ashamed of them. We also believe that those who know what sacrifice is all about are more likely to be wearing a military uniform than an athletic uniform.”
The College has been extremely consistent in standing up for its core values. They gave up hosting the NAIA Division II National Basketball Championships after the organization refused to require that all teams commit to requiring their players to stand for the National Anthem.
The volleyball team was the first effected, they immediately began wearing t-shirts to play in. The mens and womens basketball teams have switched to Adidas and Under Armor uniforms.
