As a long-standing fan of the University of Kentucky (UK), I have always been proud to wear and create items showcasing our school's logo. However, recently, our ability to do so has been restricted due to an exclusivity arrangement with Fanatics. This not only limits our creative freedom but also impacts the way we show our loyalty.

UK's partnership with Fanatics has made it impossible for fans like me to create our own personalized merchandise. It's imperative for the school administration and specifically, Mitch Barnhart, to understand how this limitation suppresses our enthusiasm and dilutes our connection to our alma mater.

While I understand the financial implications for UK, it's worth mentioning that this issue arises at a time when the university is approaching us, the fans, for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) funds. Thus, it's only fair that we also retain some rights to the UK name and logo.

Releasing these restrictive measures could reinvigorate the local economy as well. According to Forbes, the sports merchandise industry is a multi-billion dollar sector, and by allowing fans to create their own merchandise, we could see significant economic benefits right here in Lexington, Kentucky.

We, the fans, deserve the right to create and personalize objects with the UK logo. That’s why I urge Mitch Barnhart and the administration of the University of Kentucky to reconsider their agreement with Fanatics, and give the fans back the rights to the UK name and logo. Please sign this petition in support of this change.