Nokona's Centennial: Star-Designed Gloves Aid Special Olympics

PHOENIX, March 26, 2026 – In a unique fusion of American heritage, athletic legacy, and heartfelt philanthropy, iconic ball glove manufacturer Nokona is marking its 100th anniversary with a major charitable initiative. The Texas-based company has partnered with Special Olympics to launch an exclusive online auction of celebrity-designed baseball gloves, with 100% of the proceeds dedicated to supporting the global organization's athletes.

The auction, which opens today and runs through March 30 on Nokona.com, offers a rare opportunity for fans and collectors to acquire one-of-a-kind gloves conceived by a star-studded roster of athletes, entertainers, and Special Olympics ambassadors. This event serves as a cornerstone of Nokona's year-long centennial celebration, turning a corporate milestone into a powerful vehicle for social good.

A Century of Craftsmanship Meets Compassion

Founded in 1926 and handcrafting ball gloves in the United States since 1934, Nokona has built a reputation on quality, durability, and a deep connection to America's pastime. The company's legacy is woven into the very leather it uses, drawing from generations of tradition along the famed Chisholm Trail. This centennial auction brings that rich history into the present, demonstrating a commitment that extends beyond the baseball diamond.

"Everyone at Nokona is overjoyed by the opportunity to support Special Olympics athletes during our anniversary year," said Nokona President & CEO Jeff Beraznik in a statement. "Baseball lovers and fans of the celebrities will be impressed by the amazing designs and handcraftsmanship of the Centennial Celebrity Gloves. The winning bidders will have a collectible that lasts a lifetime, and in true Nokona style, the gloves are all ready for play."

This initiative is part of a broader centennial strategy for the brand, which includes the release of a "Centennial Collection" of leather goods and new glove lines for 2026. By embedding this significant charitable auction within its anniversary festivities, Nokona frames its legacy not just in terms of product excellence but also in community impact, aligning with its sponsorship of initiatives like "The Play Catch Movement," which promotes connection through the simple act of sport.

Star Power for a Special Cause

The appeal of the auction is amplified by its impressive lineup of collaborators. The collection features gloves designed by figures from across the spectrum of American culture. Sports legends like baseball icon Nolan Ryan and NFL Hall of Famer Roger Staubach have contributed designs, alongside contemporary stars such as Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Blake Treinen and Baltimore Orioles outfielder Taylor Ward.

The roster extends far beyond the world of sports, including American storyteller Mike Rowe, podcast star Theo Von, and R&B hitmaker Montell Jordan. TV personality Elisabeth Hasselbeck and the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Reece Weaver & Charley Barby also lent their creative talents. This diverse group ensures a broad appeal, drawing interest from sports memorabilia collectors, pop culture enthusiasts, and philanthropists alike.

Crucially, the collaboration includes voices from the heart of the benefiting organization. Special Olympics Global Ambassadors Maureen McCormick and Victoria Arlen designed gloves, as did athlete leaders Haley Waggoner and Wyatt Spalding. Their involvement grounds the celebrity-driven event in the authentic mission it aims to support.

"Having the chance to design the glove meant so much to me," said Haley Waggoner, who also serves as a Specialist in Government Relations at Special Olympics. "Being part of Special Olympics brings me so much joy. Athletes have so much to show the world, and this auction is another way to share that message of belonging."

Each glove is a unique creation, with only one of each design available. Winning bidders will not only acquire a rare collectible but will also have the option to further personalize their prize, creating a truly bespoke piece of memorabilia.

Beyond the Glove: Empowering Athletes Through Sport

All proceeds from the auction will directly support the mission of Special Olympics, a global movement providing year-round sports training and competition for millions of children and adults with intellectual disabilities. With an extensive network serving over four million athletes, the organization relies on such fundraising efforts to deliver its programs, which are proven to foster physical fitness, courage, and social inclusion.

Softball, in particular, has been a cornerstone of the Special Olympics program since 1983. The team sport offers a powerful platform for developing coordination, athleticism, and collaborative skills. Through both traditional and Unified Sports® teams—where athletes with and without intellectual disabilities play together—Special Olympics softball breaks down barriers and builds community.

"Since 1983, softball has been one of the most enduring sports at Special Olympics, offering millions of athletes the opportunity to compete in a team sport that fosters athleticism, coordination, and collective effort," noted Jon-Paul St. Germain, Vice President of Sport Development at Special Olympics. "We are thrilled to join in this auction with Nokona, highlighting Special Olympics as a leading sport-for-development organization and bringing more athletes of all abilities to baseball and softball."

Beyond the financial support from the auction, Nokona has also committed to donating gloves directly to Special Olympics athletes, ensuring the company's high-quality equipment reaches the players who can benefit from it most. This dual approach of fundraising and direct donation underscores a comprehensive partnership aimed at making a tangible difference in the lives of athletes, providing them with the tools and opportunities to experience the joy and camaraderie of sport.