The Wisconsin Department of Athletics, in partnership with its apparel provider,
Under Armour, is kicking off the “Wisconsin Shoe Project” for the 2019-2020 season. The intent of The Wisconsin Shoe Project is to provide unforgettable moments that will help to transform the lives of youngsters going through difficult times. This unifying project will show that the power of sports is a perfect conduit for activism and social change in communities by leading through example that a few minutes is transformative and life is bigger than just a game.
The Wisconsin Shoe Project will involve a Badger student-athlete presenting a pair of size-appropriate Under Armour shoes to a child selected by one of Wisconsin Athletics’ seven community partners at each of 50 pre-selected Wisconsin home athletics events in 2019-20. The experience will include tickets to the game, parking and food.
UW Athletics seven community partners participating in “the Wisconsin Shoe Project” for 2019-20 are: American Family Children’s Hospital, Wisconsin Upside Down, Special Olympics of Wisconsin, Goodman Community Center, Lussier Community Education Center, Randall Elementary School and Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Dane County.
The Wisconsin Shoe Project has its roots in the 2017-18 Badger men’s basketball season. Former Wisconsin All-American Ethan Happ began personally signing and giving away a pair of his own shoes to a child in need after each Badger home game. He presented 40 pairs of shoes to children over his final two seasons as a Badger.
For more information and questions regarding the Wisconsin Shoe Project, contact uwcommunityrelations@athletics.wisc.edu.
