Learfield Communications LLC

10/12/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/12/2026 12:51

UTA Athletics, 44 Farms, and McClaren Farms Announce Landmark Partnership

ARLINGTON, Texas - UTA Athletics, 44 Farms, and McClaren Farms today announced a landmark partnership that unites Texas institutions while expanding the reach and impact of both organizations.

As part of the agreement, McClaren Farms will become the inaugural jersey patch sponsor for UTA Basketball, with its logo appearing on all men's and women's basketball uniforms beginning with the 2026-27 season. The partnership also establishes 44 Farms as the Official Beef and McClaren Farms as the Official Smokehouse of UTA Athletics.

"This is a historic moment for UTA Athletics," Director of Athletics Jon Fagg said. "This partnership is about much more than placing a logo on a jersey. It's about building a relationship that creates lasting value. We are grateful to Bob and everyone at 44 Farms and McClaren Farms for believing in UTA Athletics. This partnership will have a profound impact on our student-athletes and our department for years to come."

UTA alumnus Bob McClaren ('80 BBA, Accounting) serves as 44 Farms' President and CEO. McClaren said the partnership represents an opportunity to give back to the university that helped shape his future while strengthening the connection between 44 Farms, McClaren Farms, and UTA Athletics.

"UTA Athletics is on the move, and we couldn't be more excited to be a part of it," said Bob McClaren, President and CEO of 44 Farms. "44 Farms and McClaren Farms are honored to be a part of what Athletic Director Jon Fagg and his team and coaches are building. With such strong leadership, we believe that even greater things for UTA Athletics are on the horizon. We want to be there for it."

Founded in 1909, 44 Farms is one of the nation's premier registered Black Angus cattle operations and the largest in Texas. Through its affiliate company, McClaren Farms - which provides delicious Prime and Choice Angus beef in hundreds of Walmart locations across the Southeast and Southwest - 44 Farms has grown far beyond its Texas roots and is making its presence in major markets throughout the region.

"We're thrilled to collaborate with UT Arlington Athletics to bring this highly visible jersey patch partnership to life. 44 Farms and McClaren Farms share UT Arlington's commitment to excellence, community, and growth, and we're excited to see that connection showcased on Mavericks' athletic uniforms," said Mike Haake, Vice President of Learfield, Sports Properties.

Through UTA Basketball's presence across Texas, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and other key markets, the partnership extends 44 Farms and McClaren Farms further into the communities they already serve. In turn, the companies will provide significant resources to support the continued growth and competitive success of UTA Athletics and its student-athletes.

"This partnership will have a tremendous impact on our athletic department," said Ira Childress, Deputy Athletic Director for Development and General Manager of Athletics. "It was a pleasure working with Bob and his team to bring this collaboration to life, and we are excited about the opportunities it will create for our student-athletes and the future of UTA Athletics."

- #BuckEm -

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