STEPHENVILLE, TX – Tarleton State University Athletics publicly thanked its valued corporate partners for their support during the 2025-26 athletic season. The university recognized a diverse group of businesses whose contributions played a significant role in supporting student-athletes, enhancing facilities, and elevating the overall fan experience.
While specific financial details of the partnerships were not disclosed, a statement released by the athletic department emphasized the critical role these collaborations play in the university's ability to offer a competitive NCAA Division I program. The partnerships encompassed a wide range of support, including sponsorship of individual teams, game-day promotions, facility upgrades, and scholarship funding.
"Our corporate partners are an integral part of the Tarleton Athletics family," said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, Lonn Reisman, in the official statement. "Their commitment to our student-athletes and our programs allows us to provide a first-class experience, both on and off the field. We are deeply grateful for their continued support and look forward to building upon these relationships in the years to come."
The university highlighted the impact of these partnerships on various aspects of the athletic program. Enhanced training equipment, improved travel accommodations for teams, and upgraded stadium amenities were all cited as direct benefits stemming from corporate sponsorship. Moreover, the partnerships have facilitated increased community engagement, with many partners participating in outreach programs and fan events.
Although the university's statement refrained from naming all partners individually, it did acknowledge several key sponsors who have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to Tarleton Athletics. These sponsors represent a cross-section of industries, including banking, healthcare, retail, and energy.
One notable example cited was the ongoing partnership with First Financial Bank, a long-time supporter of Tarleton State University. Their contributions have supported numerous initiatives, including scholarship programs and facility enhancements at Memorial Stadium, home to the Tarleton Texans football team.
Another key partnership highlighted was with Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Stephenville, which provides comprehensive medical services to Tarleton's student-athletes. Their expertise in sports medicine and athletic training ensures that student-athletes receive the highest quality care, allowing them to compete at their best while minimizing the risk of injury.
Beyond these prominent partnerships, the university also recognized the contributions of several local businesses who have stepped up to support Tarleton Athletics. These partnerships, while perhaps smaller in scale, are equally vital in fostering a strong sense of community and ensuring the long-term success of the athletic program.
The university’s athletic department emphasized that building and maintaining strong relationships with corporate partners is a continuous process. They actively engage with potential sponsors, seeking to create mutually beneficial partnerships that align with the university's values and strategic goals. The department regularly evaluates the impact of these partnerships and adjusts its approach as needed to maximize their effectiveness.
Looking ahead, Tarleton State Athletics plans to continue expanding its network of corporate partners. The university believes that these collaborations are essential for sustaining a competitive athletic program and providing student-athletes with the resources they need to succeed academically and athletically. As Tarleton State continues its transition to NCAA Division I, these partnerships become even more crucial in bridging the gap and elevating the program to new heights. The athletic department plans to unveil new partnership opportunities for the upcoming 2026-27 season later this year.
