These are unique times we're in.
The COVID-19 pandemic has hit virtually every industry with a gigantic right hook, and professional sports are no different.
Without fans in stadiums and arenas throughout North America, leagues and unions are feeling the effects. The NHL's plan to start the abbreviated 2020-21 season without spectators means revenues will again take a hit, and teams are scrambling to find additional streams to mitigate mounting losses.
A couple of weeks ago, word leaked that some teams were considering helmet logo sponsors for the upcoming season. The Blue Jackets confirmed their two partners on Monday morning, Nationwide and OhioHealth.
OFFICIAL: The #CBJ are excited to announce the addition of @Nationwide and @OhioHealth on our helmets this season!
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) January 4, 2021
DETAILS https://t.co/wOQzCg2qlA pic.twitter.com/NTcwIrSSCg
As seen in the images and video, the OhioHealth logo will be featured on the Blue Jackets' home blue helmets while the Nationwide logo is part of the road white helmets. Obviously, neither of these (large) brands is unfamiliar to Blue Jackets fans or those who live in Ohio; Nationwide holds the arena's naming rights and OhioHealth's name is adorned on the team's practice rink, among other activations.
From the Blue Jackets' announcement:
Both Central Ohio-based companies have been Championship Partners of the Blue Jackets since the inaugural 2000-01 season. Additional elements around this special program that will have a positive impact on the Columbus community and engage the fan base will be announced in the coming weeks.
We'll see these in game action for the first time on Thursday, Jan. 14 when the Blue Jackets open their season at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville against the Predators.
