CHICAGO, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference and Big Ten Network (BTN) today announced the addition of Air National Guard as an official partner of the Big Ten Conference. Air National Guard becomes the Official Armed Services Partner of the Big Ten Conference, as well as the presenting sponsor of the Big Ten Wrestling Championships and On The Mat, BTN’s multi-platform storytelling franchise focused on Big Ten wrestling.

“In welcoming Air National Guard as the Official Armed Services Partner of the Big Ten Conference, we are proud to associate with an organization committed to leadership and service as we work together to highlight Big Ten wrestling and basketball,” said Big Ten Chief Operating Officer Kerry Kenny.

Beginning next week, the Air National Guard will present the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Player of The Week and Freshman of the Week awards. In addition to their sponsorship of the Big Ten Wrestling Championships, Air National Guard will also have a significant presence at the Big Ten Football Championship Game Fan Fest and the Big Ten Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments, including in-arena and television visible signage, as well as media assets on BTN.

As the primary combat-ready reserve of the Air Force, the Air National Guard provides mission-ready Airmen to safeguard the homeland, serve communities and execute global operations.

“The partnership with the Big Ten Network represents a significant step in broadening the Air National Guard’s recruiting outreach,” said Lt. Col. Robert Fore, Air National Guard director of marketing at the Air Force Recruiting Service. “By partnering with Big Ten Conference and the Big Ten Network, the ANG is positioned to connect and engaged with a loyal audience, furthering our mission of recruiting the next generation of ANG Airmen. This initiative is more than just about brand visibility; it’s about building a connection with future Airmen of the Air National Guard.”

“As interest and viewership in Big Ten wrestling continues to grow, as seen by audience records the past two seasons, we are looking forward to working with Air National Guard to cover the conference’s attempt at a 17^th consecutive national championship,” said BTN President François McGillicuddy.