STARTER Brand and Golden State Storm Announce Landmark Partnership to Fuel the Future of Women’s Football in the Bay Area

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OAKLAND, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mar 3, 2026--

STARTER, the legendary global premium sports brand, today announced a partnership with the Golden State Storm, the San Francisco Bay Area’s premier women’s tackle and flag football organization. This collaboration marks the STARTER brand’s definitive entrance into the surging world of women’s flag football, serving as the official apparel provider for Storm flag athletes.

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Flag football is experiencing unprecedented growth across the country, with over 17 states sanctioning the sport for girls and a 60% increase in participation before the previous 2024-2025 season. This partnership arrives at a pivotal moment for the sport. With the STARTER brand’s heritage craftsmanship and modern innovation, the Storm will take the field with a renewed sense of identity, pride, and purpose.

“STARTER has always defined the intersection of authentic sport and cultural style. Partnering with the Golden State Storm is the perfect evolution of our ‘Look for the Star’ legacy,” said Brian Gallagher, VP of Marketing at STARTER Athletics. “We are proud to provide high-performance uniforms for the Storm’s flag football team and premium lifestyle gear for the tackle squad and their die-hard fans. From the first snap on the field to the energy in the stands, STARTER is officially back in the game and fully committed to the future of women’s football.”

This partnership bridges the gap between the STARTER brand’s deep roots in gridiron history and the growing momentum in women’s professional sports. While outfitting the Golden State Storm for peak performance on the field, the brand is also launching an exclusive lifestyle collection for the fans. These limited-edition pieces will feature the STARTER brand’s classic silhouettes and premium designs, offering Storm supporters a unique way to wear their commitment to equity and excellence in women’s football. By combining performance innovation with the brand’s signature pop-culture aesthetic, the STARTER brand is helping the Golden State Storm lead the charge in the rapidly ascending world of flag and tackle football.

“Investment in women’s football is no longer just about parity; it’s about recognizing the explosive talent and market potential that has been underserved for far too long,” said Jake Langner, Co-Owner of the Golden State Storm. “Partnering with an iconic brand like STARTER is a monumental win for the sport. It signals to the Bay Area and the rest of the country that women’s football deserves the highest level of craftsmanship and commercial backing. By equipping our flag athletes with world-class gear, we aren’t just preparing for a season; we are professionalizing the pipeline for every girl in Northern California who dreams of taking the field.”

With this partnership, STARTER proudly reinforces its commitment to elevating women’s sports and becoming a preferred brand driving the growth of the game. Bringing decades of heritage into the Bay Area's vibrant football community isn’t just a strategic move. It’s the perfect play.

About the Golden State Storm: The Golden State Storm is the newest franchise in the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC) and is proud to be the first women’s professional tackle football team to debut in the San Francisco Bay Area. The Storm is more than a team - it’s a movement dedicated to empowering women and girls through sport. Established in 2025, and set to electrify audiences in their 2026 season debut, the Storm is rooted in equity, power, and community and are committed to empowering the next generation of female athletes in football. To learn more, visit www.goldenstatestorm.com.

About STARTER: Founded in 1971, STARTER has long been recognized as a legendary sports apparel brand with a history that transcends generations. The brand has forged partnerships with major professional basketball, football, baseball, hockey, and college leagues. With its rich heritage rooted deeply in sports culture, the STARTER brand is reclaiming its position as a leader in team sports, delivering high-quality, innovative uniforms and apparel for athletes and fans alike.

The STARTER brand's bold return to the field signifies a new era of blending classic style with modern performance. From youth leagues to professional arenas, the STARTER brand is committed to outfitting the next generation of competitors. By leveraging its iconic brand equity and generational appeal, the STARTER brand aims to resonate across all levels of competition and demographics. Find the ‘Star’ at www.starter.com.

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Media Contact: Devonya Ó’Dubhda,[email protected]

KEYWORD: CALIFORNIA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA

INDUSTRY KEYWORD: FOOTBALL WOMEN SPORTS CONSUMER GENERAL SPORTS

SOURCE: Golden State Storm

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PUB: 03/03/2026 10:00 AM/DISC: 03/03/2026 10:00 AM

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