Southern Miss Athletics Announces Jersey Patch Sponsor For Football

Southern Miss athletics and Forrest, the regional health system formerly known as Forrest Health, announced an expanded partnership on Sept. 23. As a part of the expansion, Southern Miss football will wear a jersey patch sponsored by Forrest.

Forrest became the first jersey patch partner for Southern Miss football when the Golden Eagles debuted the patches in their season opener against Alcorn State on Sept. 5.

Athletics, Forrest Announce Expanded Partnership

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Southern Miss athletics have maintained a business relationship with Forrest for over 25 years.

“Forrest and Southern Miss have both been part of this community for generations, and we’re proud to continue building on a partnership that has grown for more than 25 years,” said Jeff Cook, President and CEO of Forrest, in the school release. “The 'for life' patch is a visible reminder of our commitment to South Mississippi and the people who call it home. We’re excited to stand alongside Southern Miss to support a stronger, healthier Mississippi.”

This announcement makes Southern Miss the first FBS football program in the state of Mississippi to wear a sponsored jersey patch.

“Forrest has been an important partner of Southern Miss, and we’re excited to expand that relationship in a meaningful way,” Southern Miss athletics director Jeremy McClain said in the release. “This partnership represents how we can create new opportunities in college athletics while aligning with organizations that share our commitment to Southern Miss and our community.”

Davis Wilson covers Southern Miss athletics and Hattiesburg news for the Hattiesburg American. Email him at DWilson@hattiesb.gannett.com or find him on X at @Davis_Wilson.

This article originally appeared on Hattiesburg American: Southern Miss athletics announces jersey patch sponsor for football