Prairie Star merchandise hits the market

The initial seeds of the University of Illinois Springfield's new licensing agreement with Strategic Marketing Affiliates have been planted, and for the first time, Prairie Star athletics merchandise is being sold in a local retail store.

Scheels, an all-sports mega store that opened in Springfield last spring, is now stocking five versions of UIS short sleeve t-shirts, one edition of a long sleeve t-shirt and a hooded sweatshirt. Each of the UIS items available is from the Nike line of athletics apparel.

“We are excited to see UIS apparel made available at a local retailer within our community,” UIS Athletic Director Kim Pate said. “Having these items available expands opportunities for fans to show their support while increasing the exposure of the UIS brand so our community can begin to identify the Prairie Stars as Springfield's team.”

Scheels is located at 3801 South MacArthur Boulevard in Springfield.