The AR Journey: More Than Just a Sportswear Brand

When a few of us first came together to start AR, our vision was clear: create a brand for unsponsored athletes to unite under, a brand that they could call their own, unlike the major brands that didn’t compensate these athletes for their promotion. As a former professional footballer, I, like the majority of athletes, was never sponsored. The idea of empowering athletes through ownership was a driving force for me. Quality, design, and impact were the foundational pillars of what AR would represent.

I was eager to reach out to many current and former athletes about this proposal, starting with individuals within my sport. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Many were intrigued by the idea and supported it wholeheartedly. I knew I was on to something significant.

However, as these conversations continued, a concerning pattern began to emerge. Active players often had no clear idea of what they would do once they stopped playing. Meanwhile, retired players frequently expressed a lack of support from the sporting world in transitioning to life after sports. It soon dawned on me that AR couldn't just be a sportswear brand. It needed to be a community that supported each other during and after our careers, providing an opportunity to express our passions beyond the game.

Building a Community of Support and Empowerment

Quality, design, and impact remained at the forefront of our mission. We were committed to producing high-quality apparel that athletes could rely on. Our designs would be both functional and inspiring, reflecting the strength, resilience, and passion of athletes. But beyond the physical products, AR needed to stand for something more.

We recognized the gap in support for athletes transitioning out of their sports careers. The journey from professional athlete to post-retirement life can be challenging, with many unsure of their next steps. AR aimed to fill that gap by fostering a community where athletes could come together, support one another, and explore new opportunities beyond their sporting careers.

AR: A Platform for Passion and Purpose

Our vision for AR evolved into creating a platform that would not only provide high-quality sportswear but also serve as a support system for athletes. We wanted to offer a space where they could express their passions and interests outside of the game, whether that be in business, art, education, or any other field they were passionate about.

Through AR, we sought to empower athletes to take control of their narratives, to be more than just players on a field. We aimed to inspire them to pursue their dreams and passions with the same dedication and determination they applied to their sports careers.

A Movement of Empowerment

Today, AR stands as more than just a sportswear brand. It represents a movement of empowerment, support, and community for unsponsored athletes. When you wear AR, you're not just wearing apparel; you're wearing a symbol of resilience, determination, and unity.

Join us in this journey. Be part of a community that supports each other, during and after our athletic careers. Wear AR. Be the brand. Be the movement.