Ohio, famously known as the birthplace of the NFL, offers football fans a unique experience beyond the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton. In Ada, Ohio, football enthusiasts can now explore Wilson Sporting Goods' newly expanded football factory, a site that has been crafting the NFL’s official game balls for decades.
Wilson Sporting Goods recently announced the opening of its state-of-the-art facility in Ada, which is nearly twice the size of the original. This expansion is more than just an increase in space; it represents Wilson’s dedication to innovation, quality, and its commitment to the local community. The new facility now hosts advanced features such as product testing, ball customization, and Wilson’s proprietary game-ready product break-in process.
The heart of the factory is the meticulous 20-step process that goes into crafting each NFL game ball, known as "The Duke." This process, honed over decades, ensures that every football meets the highest standards required for professional play. Visitors to the factory can witness this craftsmanship firsthand through guided tours, which also include a visit to the facility's museum. The museum showcases memorabilia dating back to the 1940s, celebrating iconic moments in both Wilson’s and the NFL’s storied history.
Kevin Murphy, Global General Manager of Team Sports at Wilson, emphasized the significance of the Wilson-NFL partnership, a relationship that has spanned over 80 years. “Wilson has been part of every snap, pass, and touchdown in NFL history,” said Murphy, highlighting the deep-rooted connection between the brand and the league. The recent renewal of this historic partnership reaffirms Wilson as the official football of the NFL, ensuring that "The Duke" remains at the forefront of every game.
Andy Wentling, the Plant Manager at the Ada factory, shared his excitement about the new facility. With a history dating back to 1929, the Ada factory has been a cornerstone of Wilson’s football production. The new facility, which replaces the one in use since 1955, addresses the challenges of the old structure and provides a modern space that fosters growth, customization, and innovation. “We’re not just making footballs—we’re crafting a legacy of quality and performance that resonates on every field,” Wentling remarked.
The new factory offers a personal experience beyond manufacturing. Visitors can not only see how a football is made but also customize one with their name, creating a tangible connection between fans and the craftsmanship that goes into every ball. The facility also features a retail store where guests can purchase sports equipment and apparel, taking home a piece of Wilson’s storied legacy.
The pride in the Ada community is palpable, as the new factory serves as a testament to the talent and dedication of the local workforce. Seeing footballs made in Ada perform in high-stakes NFL games brings a sense of pride that is hard to match, reinforcing the factory’s significant role in both the community and the sport.
Wilson’s new factory in Ada, located at 517 E. Highland Ave., offers one-hour tours on weekdays, starting at 9 a.m. The cost is $15 per person, with a portion of the proceeds designated for youth sports groups. First responders and active or former military personnel can enjoy free admission. Tours can be reserved online, allowing football fans a unique opportunity to witness the craftsmanship that goes into every NFL touchdown, handcrafted right in Ada, Ohio.
In June 2024, Wilson proudly celebrated the opening of this modernized facility, marking a significant milestone in its nearly century-long history of football production in Ada. This new chapter not only enhances Wilson’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the sports industry but also strengthens the company’s ties to the Ada community and the NFL, ensuring that "The Duke" continues to be the standard in professional football for years to come.
