Gainesville, Florida, April, 2023- Gainesville-based fitness apparel company Athlicity.co and University of Florida CB Sharif Denson are teaming up for an NIL deal for a new apparel launch scheduled to hit shelves this summer. This marks the first NIL deal for Denson, and the first collegiate football player signed by Athlicity.
Denson joined the University of Florida this season as a highly coveted defensive back prospect out of Bartram Trail High School in Jacksonville, Florida. He held offers from 40 schools including Miami, Alabama, and Georgia.
“NIL is a huge part of my college experience,” commented Denson. “I’m thankful for the opportunities it provides me to help build my own brand. Athlicity, being Gainesville based, is a great partner to showcase my marketing opportunity as a Gator.”
Athlicity announced its first NIL partnership with University of Florida gymnast Bri Edwards in January, and the signing of five University of Florida soccer players in March. Denson is the company’s first entry into the college football landscape.
“Our partnership with Sharif is on a new level,” added Austin Jones, Social Media and NIL Athlete Coordinator for Athlicity. “We all grew up huge fans of the game and the University, and we know what type of impact players like him have. We are grateful for our partnership, not only because of the marketing impact and what he brings to the table, but because of the joy seeing players like him succeed both on and off the field.”
Athlicity was founded by four athletes who understand the challenges of balancing athletics, academic, and finances. Their goal of making high-end functional fitness clothing that is also affordable for students came to fruition with an official launch in 2022. The deal with Sharif Denson will not only provide him with clothing and compensation, but it will kickstart a major new product launch coming this summer.
The deal was put together by Drew Campbell and Noah Bishop of Athlete Factory Agency, based out of Jacksonville. Founded in 2022, the agency offers various student athlete services including NIL branding, athlete representation, and consulting.
Denson has already been on the field for the University of Florida football team, as the Gators held their annual spring game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium last week. In July, Denson will help Athlicity launch a new product line.
“Denson has many talents, including marketing and creativity, added Jones. “We can’t wait for what is to come this summer."
The University of Florida Football season begins August 31st on the road against Utah.
Athlicity features a line of functional fitness apparel for men and women including performance shirts and shorts, sports bras, women’s leggings, and artistic creations such as their tie-dye series of leggings. These NIL agreements demonstrate Athlicity’s continued commitment to student athletes.
Other student athletes interested in an NIL partnership with Athlicity should contact the company directly.
Athlicity is online at https://athlicity.co, on Instagram @athlicity.co, and Twitter @athlicity_
Sharif Denson is on Instagram @sharifdenson
For questions to Athlete Factory Agency, contact Drew Campbell at (904) 505 - 6498
For additional information, please contact Jason Opdyke of Athlicity at (352) 888-0664 or email press@athlicity.co