The University of Missouri’s athletic director says major Missouri companies are finding value in partnering with Mizzou Athletics.
Laird Veatch praised Columbia-based EquipmentShare and Jefferson City-based Farmer Companies during this week’s press conference in the 1926 club. Mr. Veatch reiterated that praise during an interview with 939 the Eagle:
“Particularly in this day and age for college athletics we have to have sponsors like that to be competitive. But it’s what is happening is they are seeing the value of the partnership, right. Because that is an investment with returns for them because of the platform that we have,” he says.
Mr. Veatch spoke to 939 the Eagle inside the EquipmentShare Club 1926. The Farmer Companies Rock M Club is below that. They’re part of the $250-million Memorial Stadium Centennial project.
Mr. Veatch says Mizzou Athletics generates an economic impact of more than $600-million annually. Mr. Veatch tells 939 the Eagle that’s a huge ripple effect:
“Almost $300-million in additional media value. So 500-thousand visitors every year. So those are big, big numbers. So when we talk about investing and having a budget of $200-million in our athletic department, it’s critically important because it means something to this community and the state,” he says.
Mr. Veatch also praises the $250-million Memorial Stadium Centennial project, saying it represents a transformative investment and elevates the experience for Mizzou football fans, student-athletes and recruits.