The Wall Street Journal has gotten its hands on some emails that were sent between Nike officials and the Florida State athletic department, and they demonstrate just how truly insane Nike is about protecting its #brand.
Right after a game against Miami in November, cameras caught Florida State head coach Jimbo Fisher embracing his 9-year-old son on the field. It was a nice moment, but not for the soulless corporate creatures at Nike, who couldn't help but notice that young Fisher was sporting an Under Armour sweatshirt. Hours after the game, Nike's assistant director for football sports marketing, Mark Dupes, sent an email to FSU's athletic department decrying the child's disregard for brand synergy. From the Journal:
"Hey got a text from the USA Director of Sports Marketing last night telling me of how good things look w FSU and our players and sideline staff, exposure for the Brand was exceptional. Then 5 min later I rec a new message…Said ABC cameras were on Jimbo and his Son ad end of the game…His son was Wearing Under Armour FSU sweatshirt! Ouch. Can we please ask Jimbo to eliminate that from the son's wardrobe in the future! Let me know if I can help w anything. Thx guys. MD"
I wish that email had a face, so that I could punch it.
[WSJ]