STEPHENVILLE, TX – Tarleton State University Athletics has publicly acknowledged and thanked its numerous corporate partners across Texas for their significant contributions to the university's athletic programs throughout the 2025-26 season. The outpouring of support, officials say, has been instrumental in funding scholarships, improving facilities, and enhancing the overall student-athlete experience.
The university's athletic department released a statement highlighting the diverse array of Texan businesses that stepped up to support the Texans, Tarleton State's athletic teams. From major corporations to local small businesses, the partnerships have provided a crucial financial boost, allowing the athletic department to maintain its competitive edge within the NCAA Division I ranks.
“We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of our Texan corporate partners," said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, Lonn Reisman, in a released statement. "Their commitment to Tarleton State Athletics goes beyond financial contributions. They are investing in the future of our student-athletes, our university, and our community."
While the university did not release specific dollar amounts for each partnership, officials emphasized that the collective impact of the sponsorships has been substantial. Funds generated through corporate partnerships are allocated across various areas, including athletic scholarships, coaching salaries, facility upgrades, equipment purchases, and travel expenses for competing teams.
Specifically, the university pointed to recent improvements made to the baseball and softball fields as directly attributable to corporate sponsorships. Upgrades included new turf, improved dugouts, and enhanced spectator seating. These improvements not only benefit the student-athletes but also enhance the game-day experience for fans and the Stephenville community.
The university also highlighted the importance of corporate partnerships in supporting its student-athlete academic support programs. These programs provide tutoring, academic advising, and other resources to help student-athletes succeed in the classroom. Tarleton State Athletics prides itself on its high graduation rate among student-athletes, and corporate support plays a vital role in maintaining that standard.
Several specific companies were mentioned in the university's public announcement, including local businesses like Stephenville-based banks, restaurants, and retail stores, as well as larger regional and national corporations with a presence in Texas. While a complete list was not provided, the university indicated that a more detailed directory of sponsors would be available on the Tarleton State Athletics website in the coming weeks.
"These partnerships represent a true collaboration between Tarleton State University and the business community," stated Reisman. "We value these relationships immensely, and we are committed to providing our corporate partners with valuable opportunities to connect with our fans, promote their brands, and support our student-athletes."
The university emphasized that the success of its athletic programs directly benefits the Stephenville community, bringing increased visibility and economic activity to the region. Successful sports programs enhance university pride, attract prospective students, and contribute to the overall quality of life in the community.
Looking ahead, Tarleton State Athletics officials expressed optimism about continuing to grow its corporate partnerships program. They plan to actively engage with businesses across Texas to explore opportunities for collaboration and support. The university also plans to host several appreciation events throughout the year to recognize and thank its corporate partners for their ongoing contributions.
Tarleton State University transitioned to NCAA Division I competition in 2020, joining the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). The university's athletic programs have seen steady growth and improvement since the transition, and corporate partnerships have played a critical role in facilitating that progress. The university offers a wide range of intercollegiate sports, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, track and field, cross country, golf, and tennis.
