Georgia's Own Credit Union Expands UGA Athletics Partnership with Historic Focus on Women's Sports

Georgia's Own Credit Union, Georgia's third-largest credit union, has announced a significant expansion of its partnership with University of Georgia Athletics that places unprecedented emphasis on women's sports programs. The centerpiece of this new agreement includes the installation of the Georgia's Own Credit Union logo on the softball field at Jack Turner Softball Stadium, representing the first time any corporate partner has secured on-field logo placement at a UGA athletic facility.

Dave Preter, president and CEO of Georgia's Own Credit Union, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, stating that women's athletics are driving fan interest nationwide at unprecedented levels. The credit union's decision aligns with growing national trends in women's sports visibility and fan engagement, as evidenced by recent developments in professional women's basketball and softball leagues that rely heavily on talent developed at the collegiate level.

The expanded agreement designates Georgia's Own as the presenting sponsor of the 2026 UGA softball team, which achieved record attendance of 56,921 fans at Jack Turner Softball Stadium in 2025 and narrowly missed its sixth appearance in the Women's College World Series. Head Coach Tony Baldwin, entering his fifth year with the program, described the partnership as transformative for his team and a validation of the hard work and excellence demonstrated by student-athletes.

The investment includes a program-wide Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal that provides life-changing opportunities for student-athletes while supporting the continued growth and visibility of women's collegiate sports. This comprehensive approach to sponsorship represents a milestone moment for the UGA softball program and signals broader recognition of the value and potential of women's athletics.

J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics Josh Brooks characterized the partnership as a significant moment for Georgia Athletics, noting that placing the first on-field logos in support of women's sports sends a powerful message about the value, visibility, and growth of female student-athletes and programs. The credit union's investment not only supports existing traditions of excellence but also helps create lasting milestones for women's sports development.

Beyond the softball-specific enhancements, Georgia's Own will maintain its visibility at football and men's basketball games while increasing its presence at gymnastics meets and women's basketball games. The new agreement includes expanded digital signage appearances at Stegeman Coliseum, building upon a partnership that has spanned over a decade between the financial institution and UGA Athletics. For additional information about Georgia's Own Credit Union, visit https://georgiasown.org.