Jackie Robinson Come Out Fighting Sweatshirt

Sporting Icons. American heroes.

Unlike many of the icons represented in this collection, the name Jackie Robinson was not yet universally recognized before joining the armed forces. The future Brooklyn Dodger was drafted to the US Army in 1942, some three years before playing professional baseball and five years before breaking the color line in the Majors. As a result, Jackie was subject to the same unfavorable treatment as his fellow black soldiers.

When applying for a position in Officer Candidate School (OCS) - a spot rarely given to black applicants - Jackie and his colleagues’ applications had been delayed for months. After protests from Joe Louis - who was also stationed at the same base - the men were accepted to OCS. This experience led to the growth of a close friendship between Jackie and Joe.

Robinson was no stranger to this type of treatment. The experiences he was subjected to during the court proceedings of an unwarranted court-martial would be remembered when he later joined MLB and was subjected to racist attacks. After he was acquitted, he served as a coach for Army Athletics until receiving an honorable discharge in November 1944. Just a few short months later Jackie was back in the ballpark setting to change the course of history.

In keeping with the spirit of their service, we have partnered with our friends Jay Glazer and Nate Boyer at MVP (Merging Vets and Players). In addition to normal royalties going to the estates of our featured Icons, we will be matching the royalty proceeds and donating them to MVP.

MVP empowers combat veterans and former professional athletes by connecting them after the uniform comes off; providing them with a new team to assist with the transition, promote personal development, and show them they are never alone.

Officially licensed by Jackie Robinson™.

DETAILS

• Triblend
• Color of actual product may vary from photo
• Our triblend fleece products undergo a vintage wash where any uneven surface or pilling may occur
• Wash in cold water
• Hang to dry
• Model is 5'10"/155lbs and wearing size M

SHIPPING/RETURNS

• Allow up to 3 to 5 business days for order processing
• Sale items can be exchanged for a different size in the same style only
• No refunds or store credits will be issued for sale or discounted items
• Purchaser is responsible for any applicable duty charges
• Items may be delivered via separate shipments