Riddell and AEMA Announce Multi-Year Partnership to Elevate the Equipment Manager Profession

DES PLAINES, IL (February 10, 2026) – Riddell, the industry leader in football helmet technology and sports protection innovation, and the Athletic Equipment Managers Association (AEMA) today announced a new multi-year partnership. After years of collaboration, Riddell and AEMA decided to formalize the partnership, focusing on increasing visibility and appreciation for the equipment manager profession while improving access to football-specific resources that enhance player protection through year-round programming.

The partnership builds on a shared commitment to supporting the professionals who play a critical role in athlete safety and performance. Through expanded event presence, career-development programs, and collaborative thought-leadership initiatives, Riddell and AEMA will work together to strengthen the equipment manager community across all levels of football.

As part of the agreement, Riddell will serve as the Platinum Sponsor of the AEMA, increasing its presence at the association’s flagship annual Convention. The partnership will also support key moments during the convention, including AEMA awards programming and engagement events. This year’s AEMA Convention will take place June 14—17, 2026 at the Northen Kentucky Convention Center.

In addition, Riddell will support AEMA’s Career Boost Program, an initiative designed to help aspiring and early-career equipment managers stay in the profession. The program will provide selected participants with an expense-paid trip to the AEMA Convention, exam and registration fee assistance, networking and spotlight opportunities, and equipment grants.

“Equipment managers are essential to the safety, readiness, and success of every team,” said Ann Kitt-Carpenetti, Executive Director. “This partnership with Riddell helps us invest directly in the next generation of professionals while also shining a brighter light on the impact our members make every day.”

“When athletes trust their equipment, they can focus on playing their best,” said Erin Griffin, SVP of Marketing and Communication. “That confidence begins with equipment managers, whose expertise, influence, and valued role within the team help advance player protection and performance across sports. Through our partnership with AEMA, we’re expanding access to education, resources, and recognition that strengthen the profession now and into the future.”

Beyond the convention and Career Boost Program, the partnership will include a range of thought-leadership and activation initiatives, including support around Equipment Manager Appreciation Week. Together, Riddell and AEMA aim to highlight the vital role of equipment managers while providing meaningful resources and opportunities that support long-term success in the profession.

 

About Athletic Equipment Managers Association (AEMA)
The AEMA is the premier national professional membership and certification organization for athletic equipment managers in the U.S. Founded in 1974, the AEMA is dedicated to advancing the role of equipment managers through education, certification, and safety standards. With over 1600 members, the AEMA focuses on improving sports equipment safety, providing professional development, and hosting an annual convention for networking, educational workshops, and vendor exhibitions. For more information, visit  www.equipmentmanagers.org and follow @aema_74 on Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

About Riddell
Riddell was founded with a goal of giving back to the football community while advancing and improving athlete protection. As the long-standing leader in football head protection and protective athletic equipment for 95 years, Riddell is leading the game to a strong future by creating a path to next generation protection. Riddell also offers best-in-class reconditioning services to help ensure athletes have access to clean, sanitized, and recertified equipment. Off the field, Riddell’s licensed collectibles business is regarded as the cornerstone of football collectibles for fans and collectors of college and the NFL. For more information, visit www.Riddell.com and follow @RiddellSports on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.