Nokona's 100th Anniversary: A Yearlong Celebration of American Baseball Tradition
Nokona's 100th Anniversary Celebration
Nokona, renowned for crafting the only American-made baseball gloves, is set to celebrate its centennial in 2026 with a series of creative and engaging events. This yearlong celebration is a tribute to both the rich history of the company and its vision for the future. Nokona's President and CEO, Jeff Beraznik, expressed excitement about commemorating this special milestone with customers and employees alike, reinforcing the brand's commitment to quality American craftsmanship and innovation.
Established in 1926, Nokona started its journey by manufacturing leather wallets and purses before transitioning to produce its first baseball glove in 1934. The brand quickly became a staple in the baseball community, gaining recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship. Throughout its history, Nokona has evolved and adapted, especially during World War II when they manufactured gloves for the U.S. military. Partnerships with professional athletes further solidified Nokona's reputation for quality and durability.
To kick off its centennial celebration, Nokona has launched a unique sweepstakes to win an extraordinary baseball glove valued at $100,000. This one-of-a-kind piece is adorned with over 12 carats of natural diamonds and features custom gold embellishments. Remarkably, this glove incorporates leather swatches from ten different Nokona baseball gloves, representing each decade of the company’s illustrious history. Fans can visit Nokona's website for more details on how to enter the sweepstakes without the need for any purchase.
Nokona’s Executive Vice President, Rob Storey, a fourth-generation family owner, highlighted the emotional connection their customers share with the brand. Storey shared, “It’s special to hear the heartwarming stories about Nokona, and it is an honor to mark this monumental year with everyone who has made it possible.” This sentiment echoes throughout the company as they prepare to introduce several new products that honor their heritage while embracing modern innovations.
The centennial schedule will include various events, such as a unique heirloom glove gift-with-purchase designed specifically for the holiday season. Additionally,