Ordering Your Team Uniforms

Uniform orders can very quickly become a coach's worst nightmare. This blog is going to be dedicated to helping you  understand what to look for when ordering uniforms. Coach Mike took time to create a  check list of what to look for in your uniforms...

The things to consider are:

1. Brand
2. Quality
3. Ability to size the team from top to bottom
4. Initial availability
5. Player add on availability
6. Price
7. Overall uniqueness of design

1. Brand

First is brand. Gone are the days of only having a few basic brands like Russell, Champion, and Nike to pick from. With options like Teamwork, Alleson Athletic, Augusta, A4 and High Five, There are many brands and options to compete with.

2. Quality

This can result in a drive for companies to have superior quality while not sacrificing a great price. When you take the U A logo or the Swoosh off of the uniform and get down to what really matters, the are endless options.

3. Ability to Size 

What size do you wear?  This is a great question. With Uniform specific companies such as Augusta Sportswear, Badger Sportswear, or Teamwork Athletic, it can be very easy to order a sizing kit to make sure you get it right the first time. Most all of these companies ship same day as order. With larger companies such as Adidas, Nike, or Under Armour, they may take up to 3 to 4 days to ship an order costing you valuable time in the ordering process.

4. Initial Availability

Another thing to consider is Initial availability. Many of the larger companies will intentionally sell out of product in a relatively quick manner. They have no desire to have any inventory left on the shelves after the start of a season.

5. Add on Players

The Add on player....With larger brand names such as Nike, Under Armour and Adidas, their primary focus is to sell a jersey that will in turn help sell there larger brand concept. it is not uncommon for these guys to discontinue a jersey line after one season. This leaves a coach or athletic director with the challenge of trying to find a similar product when it comes to adding a jersey. When you utilize uniform specific companies such as Augusta Sportswear, Badger Sportswear, or Teamwork Athletic, they have lines that will be available for 2 to 3 years at minimum. All they do is sell uniforms!

6. Price

One of the most important aspects of the uniform experience is PRICE. Quite simply, when you loose the swoosh or the UA then for some strange reason the price mysteriously lowers by 15% to 25%.

 

7. Uniqueness of Design

One of the last aspects to consider is uniqueness of the design. All to often I see teams that utilize uniforms from the BIG 3 Nike, Under Armour, and Adidas.. Often times other than a slight color variation it quickly becomes obvious that they are wearing the exact same designs. With smaller uniform specific companies, they are constantly competing for your business so a unique stock design is the best way to make that happen.

Bottom line is this, if you are interested in getting the most out of your uniform dollars then consider moving away from the shoe companies styles to the direction of the guys that make uniforms exclusively for a living. This will give you increased value and quality, as well as fewer headaches.
- Coach Mike

For catalogs featuring all of these brands, check out our Coaches Corner Page!


We've got you covered!  |  2497 Highway 77, Panama City, Florida 32405  |850.215.5151  |  Facebook.com/AlmegaSports

The Lady Warriors- #2 Team in the Country

Almega Sports has the opportunity to work with many incredible teams creating their custom uniforms and will soon have the honor of working with one of the top 11U fast-pitch teams in the country.

It’s really amazing to see what a group of young softball players are capable of when they play the game with everything they have. The Lady Warriors team from Callahan, Florida has played in numerous USSSA  tournaments in the North Florida area. This team brings passion to the field that makes the game even more exciting to watch.

The Warriors won several USSSA tournaments in their age group and even played in the 13u age group in the fall. The coaches are very involved with player development while keeping it fun for the girls. The players and coaches are serious about the game and worked hard for their title. Almega Sports is looking forward to working with these young ladies as they continue to make strides in the game.

The team with Coach Kevin Fagan from Central Florida State College. Where they finished 3rd in a 13u USSSA College Showcase Tournament!

Here are just some of their accomplishments from last season!

11U Tournaments

9/13         1st place in Fall Brawl Tournament

 13u Tournaments

10/11       1st place in Play For The Cure Tournament

10/25       2nd place in River City Spooktacular Tournament

11/2         4th place in the USSSA State Championship

11/15       3rd place in the Future Stars Showcase          

12/6         2nd place in Toys For Tots Tournament

Almega Sports and Inaria Soccer- Preparing You For An Exciting Season

With the 2014 FIFA World Cup well under way we thought it was a good time to post an update about the new soccer line coming to Almega Sports! Almega Sports will soon be carrying equipment from and providing uniforms through Inaria International. Inaria was established in 1999, and has become a market leader in the sports and active wear industry- specializing in soccer uniforms and equipment.
              

Proper equipment is essential for game play- goalies need gloves, every player needs cleats and shin guards, but good looking uniforms are just as important! Through Almega Sports, you can order low cost, quality soccer uniforms that will keep your team looking great on the field. Regardless of if you're ordering a month before or last minute, Almega Sports can help you create the look you want for your team at the best possible price. Click this link or the one above to go back to our Coaches Corner and check out the Inaria catalog.

Recreational leagues are starting conditioning and practices, and soccer season for local high schools will be starting sooner than you think. As the most popular sport in the world- with over 250 million players in over 200 countries- soccer is an exciting way to introduce your kids or even yourself to team sports. Almega Sports carries goalie gloves, cleats, shin guards, soccer balls, and even miniature goals to practice your accuracy. So this season be sure to stop by Almega Sports for all your soccer needs!

                     

I'd Rather Be Fishing - Almega Sports' Partnership With An Up And Coming Champion

Wil Epps is ready for his 2014 tournaments.

     Most fourteen year old guys are focused on one of two things- video games or girls, maybe even both. But for freshwater tournament fisher Wil Epps, nothing beats a good day on the water with a rod and reel in his bass boat powered by Yamaha V Max. He loves fishing so much in fact, that he is a two time FLW Youth Division state competitor, coming in 7th place in the state in 2013.

     For his 2014 competitions Wil needed to look like a serious, professional competitor- and for that his dad David contacted us at Almega Sports. David wanted a personal one of a kind design that not only showcased Wil's sponsors, but also featured everything Wil had in mind. Working with Almega Sports personable staff- getting one on one consulting to get sponsor permission and create artwork- we created a fully sublimated, original fishing jersey in an efficient time window, managing to feature all of Wil's sponsors- his major two being Fitzgerald Rods and Slick Stix. 

Wil standing with fellow fisherman Jimmy Bullard.

Wil's fully sublimated final jersey! 

  

Wil's 9lb 6oz large mouth bass. 

Wil lives in Callahan, Florida with his dad David, mom Janice,and  sister Hope- a State Champion softball player. He attends West Nasau High School. His most recent catch is the 9 pound 6 ounce large mouth bass shown below. Wil also competes in the Haven Hospice Youth Tournament, as well as the Wolfson Children's Hospital Bass Tournament. Wil plans to take on a partner and compete in the World Finals in 2015. 

Almega Sports works with a variety of customers to achieve one of a kind looks every day. These looks can be off the shelf imaging or even fully customized art. Screen printing, embroidery, and sublimation is just some of what we do at Almega Sports. We can outfit any team, meeting needs ranging from sport fishermen to football players. Owners Mike and Marie know every in and out of working with both individuals and organizations to create your perfect look. So if you're looking to outfit yourself, your team, or just want to take                                                                a look at what is available, be sure to stop by or call                                                                      Almega Sports- and don't worry, we specialize in                                                                          "I needed it yesterday." 

    2497 B Highway 77, Panama City, FL 32405 | 850.215.5151 | facebook.com/AlmegaSports

Get Ready for the Dizzy Dean State Tournament



Get Ready for the Dizzy Dean State Tournament

Its All Star season! For many baseball players here in the Panhandle that means the best of the best are being selected to compete in tournaments of America’s greatest pass time. All Star season pulls together sportsmanship, competitive play, and an overall appreciation of teamwork to show players that if they compete at their best, and work their hardest, they can accomplish their goals. All that said, the finest players and coaches in Panama City are preparing for the Dizzy Dean State Tournament.



Coaches are looking desperately for the best equipment, gear, and uniforms with little or no time to spare. Well, our very own All Star team here at Almega Sports has you covered from beginning to end. We know the hectic nature of the game and how quickly your orders need to be filled. We specialize in custom team uniforms as well as garb for your team fans! With our walk in friendly embroidery and printing processes, Almega’s turn around time can’t be beat. Also don't forget our wide selection of gear that can meet any team’s needs. Want trophies for your winning picks? Almega Sports now does personalized awards so your players know the importance of the achievements they’ve made as a team. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff as well as our low priced high quality items make your All Star season a little easier. Good luck to our fantastic teams, and may the best players win!

What is BBCOR?

There are so many questions regarding the 2012 BBCOR season.  Almega Sports is here to help unravel the most frequently asked questions regarding BBCOR. 

 

Q.  What is BESR?

A.  BESR stands for Ball Exit Speed Ratio.  Simply put, BESR is test developed to measure the exit speed of a ball after being hit by a bat.

 

Q.  What is BBCOR?

A.  BBCOR stands for Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution.  The BBCOR test is a more complete test of the bat, as it takes into account how the bat will perform after it has been broken in (ABI).  The BBCOR standard ensures that all aluminum and composite bats will perform equivalent to wood bats.  

 

Q.  What is ABI?

A.  ABI stands for Accelerated Break-In Test.  This test simulates heavily used bats and tests the performance of the bat once it is considered "hot".  ABI is a part of the BBCOR standard.

 

Q.  Why did the NFHS change the way bats are tested?

A.  The increase in severe injury, particularly to pitchers and third baseman, sparked the need to take a closer look at bats.  There was also an unrealistic performance in composite bats, which lead to a home run explosion on the fields.  Basically, the bat would out-perform the player.

 

 

Q.  Are BBCOR certified bats the same as last year's bats?

A.  No.  BBCCOR certified bats are designed to perform as close to wood bats as possible.  The sweet spots are smaller and the trampoline effect is much less that the bats of 2011.

 

Q.  What does the BBCOR stamp look like?

A.  Every 2012 senior league recreational, high school, and college bat must bear the BBCOR stamp on the barrel, which looks like this:

 

Q.  Is my 2011 bat legal to use in regulation play in 2012?

A.  No.  Non-stamped bats are considered illegal in 2012 regulation play.  Those bats have just become your practice bats.

 

Almega Sports carries a full line of BBCOR bats.  Our expert team will guide you through the rules of BBCOR and have you ready for the field with confidence. 

Almega Sports has you covered!

Approved BBCOR Bat List

New year, new rules, and new equipment. The 2012 baseball season is just days away, are you BBCOR ready?  The National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) has rewritten the rule books on bats.  All high school and college bats must posses the BBCOR stamp as of January 1, 2012.  Bats made prior to this season, and are not stamped BBCOR, are no longer considered legal equipment.  Almega Sports has you covered with the following list of legal equipment for the 2012 season.　

2012 Approved BBCOR Bat List:

• 2012 Akadema Apocalypse
• 2012 Combat B3
• 2012 Combat Caliber
• 2012 Demarini CF5
• 2012 Demarini Vexum
• 2012 Demarini Voodoo
• 2012 Easton Brigade S1
• 2012 Easton Brigade S2
• 2012 Eastn Brigade S3
• 2012 Easton Brigade XL1
• 2012 Easton Brigade XL2
• 2012 Easton Brigade XL3
• 2012 Louisville Slugger Exogrid2
• 2012 Louisville Slugger Omaha
• 2012 Louisville Slugger Z-1000
• 2012 Marucci Cat 5
• 2012 Mattingly Ripped
• 2012 Nike Aero MC2
• 2012 Nike Aero MI
• 2012 Rawlings 5150
• 2012 Worth Toxic

Our expert team is ready to help you hit the field with confidence.  We carry everything you need for this baseball season from helmets to cleats, and everything in between.  Don't forget, Almega Sports also makes custom team uniforms.  Don't worry...Almega Sports has you covered!

Are You Ready For BBCOR?

It's January 2012 and families all over the country are breaking out the baseball gear.  However, be wary of the bat you take to the diamond.  BBCOR rules are now in play and umpires across associations are ready to enforce them.  Almega Sports has a few tips to get you familiar with the BBCOR standard.

 BBCOR Rules Apply To:

• Middle School
• High School
• College Leagues
• Some Senior League Recreational Associations (confirm with your association)

Key Factors Pertaining To BBCOR:

• Bats must be stamped with the official BBCOR stamp on the barrel to be legal
• Rules apply to all alloy and composite bats
• Wood bats are not mandated to carry the BBCOR stamp, however, some manufactures, such as, Mizuno woods bats are BBCOR stamped.

The bottom line is this:  If your bats is not BBCOR stamped, it is ILLEGAL to use in official play.  Any bat without the BBCOR stamp has now become your practice bat. 

Almega Sports understands the need of every family to meet the requirements of the new season and the family budget.  We are here to help.  Come in, and allow our expert team guide you through BBCOR and keep your budget with in the foul lines.  Almega Sports has families covered!

How to Choose a Baseball Glove

There are literally thousands of options when it comes to choosing a baseball glove.  So many styles, colors, and manufacturers.  It can be an overwhelming experience to both parent and player.  Almega Sports is here to help.  We are going to answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about "How to Choose a Baseball Glove."

• What are the differences between baseball gloves? 
• Are there different gloves for different baseball positions?
• How much should I spend on a new glove?
• Is there a way to prolong the life of a glove?

 

Starting the baseball season should be an exciting and fun experience.  Don't allow purchasing baseball equipment to overwhelm you.  Almega Sports is here to help.  We will help you and your player every step of the way to enter the field with confidence. Gloves, bats, cleats, and all the accessories, we have it all.  We carry Northwest Florida's largest selection of baseball and softball gloves in all of the top brands such as:  Akadema, Mizuno, Easton, Worth, Rawlings, Louisville Slugger, and Wilson. 

 Almega Sports has you covered!

Custom Uniforms

There are so many choices when it comes to custom team uniforms.  Screen printing, embroidery, sublimation, and tackle twill are all great choices, but what is the difference between them?  Which choice is the best fit for my team and my budget?  Almega Sports has you covered.  We are specialist in custom team uniforms and we will explain the different options that are out there.

Screen printing is a very popular and affordable option for team uniforms.  Screens can be placed on virtually any fabric and come in multitude of colors and designs.  Screens can also be customized to any logo and transferred easily to jerseys and fan apparel.  This provides the most cost effective and versatile option while not sacrificing on your design and desired style for your team. 

Embroidery is often reserved to corporate team shirts, coaching shirts, and small logo designs.  This option is more expensive than screen printing.  However, embroidery offers a very professional and clean look for polo style coaching shirts, team bags, and even fan apparel and traditionally offers a longer life on the design.

Sublimation is a great choice for custom team uniforms.   It is the latest concept in uniform design.  Sublimation takes a blank white uniform and chemically injects colored dyes deep into the fabric.  While this option is more expensive then screen printing, it provides a long lasting product with greater versatility when it comes to unique designs. 

Tackle twill is most often seen in baseball, basketball and football jerseys.  This is a great option when the uniform is required to be used for multiple seasons.  This type of uniform offers a professional look and lengthy durability.  It is the choice of all professional sports uniforms.  Tackle twill is the customized stitching of machine cut fabric in multiple layers onto the surface of a uniform.  While tackle twill is the most expensive uniform available, the durability of the product proves to be most cost effective in the long run.

Almega Sports is your custom uniform team specialist.  We offer screen printing, embroidery, sublimation, and tackle twill team uniforms.  Our team of designers will assist you in every step of the uniform process from logo design to fan apparel. 

Almega Sports has team uniforms covered!

Team Uniforms

There is now more pressure than ever to save money in every area possible.  Unfortunately, extracurricular activities such as, school athletics often fall victim to necessary budget cuts.  Recreational leagues and travel ball clubs are also feeling the pinch when it comes to securing sponsors for their teams.  However, where there is a will there is a way and ball is being played on fields and courts across the country. 

Now that athletic directors, coaches, and team sponsors are required to be more creative than ever with  budget dollars, the question on where to purchase team uniforms will be a top priority.  Internet team dealers are sometimes chosen to provide uniforms at an inexpensive price.  However, buyers beware.  There are often downfalls to purchasing team uniforms at 
                                                   a bargain basement price. 

In a recent interview with Coach Mike Walker, co-owner of Almega Sports, he addresses the benefit of choosing a locally owned and operated uniform supplier over Internet sales.

We are experts in the area of team sales and custom uniforms.  Our dedicated and experienced team sales department will help you customize your team uniforms and have your players stand out on every field while keeping your team budget in bounds.  We have you covered!