Changing Times - The Championship Range 2008
blogSquareball has just launched its eagerly awaited Championship Range. Available in over 30 stores nationwide or to order through the internet at www.squareball.com, the launch coincides with the opening rounds of the Championship Season.
Fashion and GAA in the same breath - changing times indeed, as Squareball markets the sport in a new way, through ultra fashionable eye-catching gear.
Niall Laird, whose brainchild it is, says:
“People who wouldn’t be caught dead in a GAA replica shirt, are out and about proudly wearing Squareball. The current range has been tried and tested with our existing customers – they told us what they liked and didn’t like right down to the fit of the ladies’ range. The t-shirt prints are stronger and bolder – all this due to fans’ feedback.”
Launched last year, the hip streetwear-style clothing immediately struck a chord with GAA fans nationwide seeking an alternative to the replica jersey.
Niall, who himself won a Tyrone Senior football championship medal with Omagh St Enda’s back in 1988, has ambitious plans for Squareball:
“We are trying to capture the enthusiasm and enjoyment that is so much part of the GAA. With all the controversy over the past year with rows at matches, players striking on an off the pitch, pay for play and all the rest of it, the GAA is under the spotlight as never before. Squareball is made for fans by fans – we are a small operation but we think big. We have taken our inspiration from the GAA and the way it has adapted over the years through changing times.”
He concluded: “A year ago people laughed at the idea of GAA and fashion in the same breath. Our answer is: Why not? If people had taken that attitude over the years the GAA would never have been born, Croke Park would never have been built, we would still ban foreign games and we wouldn’t have seen Croker open for other sports. They’re Changing Times and we’re moving with them.”