The Sporting Goods Manufacturers’ Association (SGMA) celebrated its 100th anniversary on March 20. Founded in 1906 by six sporting goods manufacturers, their mission was to enhance the performance, safety, and impact of sporting goods products for all athletes. A century later, SGMA boasts nearly 1,000 member companies.

Through innovation and dedication, the sporting goods industry has opened doors and encouraged the inner athlete in all of us,” said SGMA president and CEO Tom Cove. We are proud of our members’ contributions to society and culture in America, and on the occasion of our 100 year anniversary, we celebrate the results of their achievements for athletes from casual to elite.”

SGMA is launching a website campaign to celebrate the significance of the sporting goods industry in American culture. The Centennial Celebration site will highlight this heritage along with an evolution of sporting goods products.

Since 1906, SGMA advocacy, collaboration, and grants have helped expand access to sport around the USA, including increased funding for school PE programmes, more parks and recreation facilities for outdoor activities, and the founding of national sports participation programmes such as The Athletic Institute, Tennis Industry Association, and the American Legion Junior Baseball Programme.