March 2024 marked the launch of Unrivaled Sports, founded by Harris and Blitzer, with a bold mission: to create unmatched sports experiences for young athletes across the United States. Valued at over $650 million according to Sportico, Unrivaled Sports is rapidly becoming a powerhouse in youth sports development.
At its core, Unrivaled Sports aims to deliver best-in-class programs, destinations, and experiences for young athletes, fostering growth both on and off the field. Its portfolio includes iconic brands such as Cooperstown All Star Village, Ripken Baseball Experiences, Rocker B Ranch, Diamond Nation, the action sports camp We Are Camp, and the innovative Unrivaled Flag flag football venture.
The recent $50 million investment from Dick’s Sporting Goods, through its venture arm DSG Ventures, significantly expands Unrivaled’s capabilities in the youth sports sector. Dick’s Sporting Goods, a recognized leader in supporting young athletes, brings strategic assets like its Gamechanger app—a popular platform providing live streaming, scheduling, communications, and scorekeeping for youth sports.
DSG Ventures, launched in 2022, focuses on investing in companies and mission-driven founders who are committed to enriching communities through sport. This partnership marks a powerful alignment of two organizations passionate about transforming youth sports.
Unrivaled Sports Chairman and CEO, Andy Campion, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:
“Dick’s Sporting Goods has become the undisputed leader in serving young athletes. Their mission-driven approach has been central from their early days to their growth as the nation’s leading sporting goods retailer. Together, with our shared vision, we are thrilled to build the future of youth sports.”
On the Dick’s Sporting Goods side, Michael Stack, VP of Strategy and Corporate Development, echoed the excitement:
“We’re incredibly excited to invest in and partner with Unrivaled Sports. They share our core belief that sports change lives. Their impact in just one year is impressive, and together, we will enhance the spaces and events where memories are made, friendships are formed, and life lessons are learned.”
What’s Next for Unrivaled Sports?
With this fresh capital injection, Unrivaled Sports plans to accelerate its growth by:
- Acquiring new destinations and expanding programming
- Enhancing existing sports facilities and amenities
- Elevating the overall athlete experience across its family of brands
This investment signals a new chapter in youth sports, where innovative experiences meet community impact, promising a brighter future for young athletes nationwide.
Source: SportsPro
