DELAND, Fla. – Stetson University, in partnership with the iconic hatmaker Stetson® and CLC (Collegiate Licensing Company), is thrilled to announce the launch of a tailor-made, officially licensed Stetson® Gameday Collection hat on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, timed to coincide with the Hatters' 1 p.m. football showdown against Harvard University at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium.
Stetson®, celebrated for its premium, western-inspired headwear and pop-culture appeal, collaborated with CLC and collegiate licensee L2 Brands to craft seven designs—each bearing distinctive university branding incorporated into the hatband. Stetson University is one of the seven institutions featured in the collection, alongside Texas A&M University, University of Texas, University of Oklahoma, Texas Christian University, Texas Tech University, and Oklahoma State University.
"As an institution deeply tied to the heritage of John B. Stetson, the Hatters' namesake, this collaboration is both symbolic and spirited," said Ricky Ray, athletic director of Stetson University Athletics. "We are excited to bring this unique Stetson® hat collection to campus, giving fans an authentic way to show their school pride."
The launch event will be staged at the Stetson University Bookstore, located in the Carlton Student Union on the DeLand campus, 421 N. Woodland Blvd., from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 20. Hats also will be available that day at the game at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium, 260 E. Euclid Ave., DeLand.
About Stetson University
Founded in 1883, Stetson University is the oldest private university in Central Florida. Stetson focuses on intense learning experiences in a supportive community that allows students to develop their voice in a connected, inclusive environment. Stetson University is ranked among the Best Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report and has been recognized as one of The Princeton Review's Best 391 Colleges in America for 2026.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
About Stetson
As it has since 1865, Stetson is an iconic brand that embodies the resourceful, authentic, adaptable, and diverse core of the American spirit. A global leader in authentic American lifestyle products, Stetson is committed to a heritage of craftsmanship and quality that communicates individuality and freedom. John B. Stetson's story of perseverance continues today, over 150 years later, in step with the journey of America—ever evolving, yet timeless.
