OL Reign Announces Multi-Year Partnership Extension with Starbucks
OL Reign today announced the renewal of its partnership with Starbucks. This renewal brings an expanded partnership between the two organizations, enlarging their impact on the community they passionately represent.
"We are proud to extend our partnership with Starbucks and continue to implement innovative ways to elevate women's sports," said OL Reign CEO Vincent Berthillot. “The partnership between OL Reign and Starbucks was built on shared values towards women empowerment and the LGBTQ+ community, and we look forward to continuing that work in making a positive impact throughout the community with their gracious support."
Starbucks will continue to serve as the presenting partner of OL Reign’s Legend Campaign as they have since the 2021 NWSL season. The Legends Campaign launched in 2016 to honor one woman at each home match in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the local community and beyond. Legends are chosen from corporate, non-profit, academic, athletic and civic organizations with a presence in Washington State. Each Legend has made a lasting impact in their respective field or discipline.
In addition to the Legends Campaign, Starbucks will once again serve as the presenting partner for OL Reign’s annual Pride Match. The extended partnership with Starbucks will amplify player and club-wide efforts towards the LGBTQ+ community throughout the year, especially around the club’s Pride Match.
Since the beginning of the partnership with Starbucks, an increased focus has been placed on putting thoughtful corporate intention behind the fierce player advocacy for Pride in sports and in everyday life, a combination that has culminated in some of the most successful games in Reign history.
Last season, with the support of Starbucks, the club custom-designed t-shirts in support of the trans community. Designed with ‘Protect Trans Kids’ in the colors of the transgender flag on the front, the players proudly wore the shirts prior to several matches. Through the generous contributions from Starbucks, the t-shirts were also available for sale, with all proceeds benefitting The Human Rights Campaign’s ‘Count Me In’ Initiative.
The 2022 Pride Match was the first of four attendance records set at Lumen Field, which ultimately helped bring in significant donations to LGBTQ+ non-profits alongside the partnership’s collaborative initiatives. As a leader in inclusive workplaces, Starbucks brings a unique perspective and authentic experience to the partnership with OL Reign.
“OL Reign exemplify the strength and inclusivity that our hometown of Seattle is known for, and we are honored to continue our partnership with the team,” said Lindsey Derry, vice president of brand & partnership marketing at Starbucks. “Lifting up the voices of women, girls, and members of the LGBTQIA2+ community is core to our mission and values as a company.”