Brigham Young University quarterback Jake Retzlaff, the primary Jewish quarterback in program historical past, has signed an NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) sponsorship with the kosher meals firm Manischewitz, it introduced Thursday.
Retzlaff, who has adopted the nickname “BYJew,” is one among solely three Jewish college students on the Latter-day Saints college.
A junior who was named the starter earlier than the season, Retzlaff has led the Cougars to a 10-2 file and a No. 18 rating within the nation. He has thrown for two,796 yards, 20 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
Manischewitz, which was based in 1888, makes kosher merchandise, together with matzo, macaroons and wine.
Retzlaff mentioned the enduring Jewish model “has all the time been a part of my life.”
“I grew up with matzo with peanut butter as my favourite snack, and each Passover, my household and I made matzo pizza collectively,” he mentioned in a information launch. “At Chanukah time our custom was making potato latkes. Now, at BYU, I’m capable of share these traditions with my teammates. This partnership is about greater than soccer — it’s about creating connections and celebrating Jewish satisfaction in methods I by no means anticipated.”
In a viral video asserting the partnership, Retzlaff does soccer drills with a field of matzo.
Manischewitz mentioned it can produce limited-edition Jake Retzlaff Matzo Boxes to “have a good time the intersection of athletic achievement and cultural heritage.” Retzlaff can even share his story and connection to Manischewitz in video content material on social media.
“We are so proud to welcome Jake formally into the Manischewitz household this vacation season,” mentioned Shani Seidman, chief advertising and marketing officer of Kayco, the mother or father firm of Manischewitz. “He is such an inspiration, and we’re honored to help his thrilling soccer profession and dream. This partnership represents the whole lot the model aspires to be—celebrating our heritage and bringing consciousness to Jewish meals and excellence.”
