Advertising on hockey and sports uniforms is not new, and has been around for quite a while. It’s been a gradual transition, with previous additions becoming practically unnoticeable. For example, the Reebok, Nike and Bauer ads in the photo above. Did you take notice?
There were a few grumblings yesterday when the Capitals unveiled their new practice jerseys for this year’s training camp.
For the purists (and I consider myself one) the transition can be disheartening. For example, I can’t imagine a Chicago Blackhawks uniform with a Ditka’s Steakhouse advertisement pasted above the sacred Indian logo, or the Detroit Red Wings jersey with a Toyota ad above the iconic motor city red wing. It hurts to even type that.
But the fact of the matter is, it will continue, and after time, probably won’t be such a big deal. In fact, it’s likely to be unnoticeable after time. The only was I can stomach this inevitable movement is the fact that these minor blemishes are helping keep a sport I love afloat.
By Jon Sorensen
