x
Breaking News
More () »

Clinton company helps Hawkeyes dress for success at Rose Bowl

Adcraft Printwear must be heaven for Iowa Hawkeye fans. Spinning presses lead the way to the longtime family business in Clinton, Iowa. “It’s been p...

Adcraft Printwear must be heaven for Iowa Hawkeye fans.

Spinning presses lead the way to the longtime family business in Clinton, Iowa.

"It's been pretty insane," said Colin Sullivan, 23, the third generation of Sullivans to work here.  "I've done a couple all-nighters."

They're working around the clock to make shirts for the Rose Bowl game.

"We have very little time to get done what we need to get done," said Colin's uncle, also named Colin Sullivan.

It's a real hands-on experience that calls on 41 years in business, more than a decade of working with the University of Iowa and Adcraft's 30 staffers.

Terry and Barb Sullivan started the company in Clinton back in 1974.

In addition to the Hawkeyes, they make shirts for lots of local teams and national clients.

"Pretty much anything you see the team and staff with Rose Bowl on it probably came through here," said the elder Sullivan.

Iowa coaches and players will be wearing Adcraft Printwear shirts on and off the field in the days leading up to the big game.

What's good for the Hawkeyes, it seems, is also good for business.

"When they do well, it seems like we do a little bit better," said Uncle Colin.

"When Iowa wins, it makes our jobs easier," added his nephew.

Adcraft Printwear will make more than 10,000 shirts and swag for the Rose Bowl.

That's why this plant is more like Santa's workshop these days.

Stitch by stitch, the Rose Bowl will be more colorful for fans and players.

There's nothing quite like seeing the finished product on the field and in the stands.

"It's kind of surreal to see that on national TV," younger Colin said.  "Stuff we had in our warehouse, producing, on their backs."

One shirt at a time, the crew at Adcraft Printwear is creating lots of Rose Bowl memories with their shirts.

"We're all fans as well, so it makes it fun," he concluded.

Fun that's in fashion with Iowa Rose Bowl shirts.

The shirts are available at a variety of local stores.

Some are also on sale at the website, http://www.hawkadelic.com.

Adcraft hopes to print a special victory shirt if the Hawkeyes win in Pasadena.

Before You Leave, Check This Out