One of the most important jobs of the Super Bowl is already well underway. While Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, and other star players will take center stage in front of millions in New Orleans—reaping the glory or the pain—work is already being done to make the game happen.
The Heart of the Action: Wilson’s Factory
About 1,000 miles from the Superdome, in Ada, Ohio, the Wilson Football Factory is buzzing with activity. This factory has been crafting the official Super Bowl balls since 1955, supplying every team in the NFL, as well as numerous college and high school programs, with their game balls.
Wilson Football Factory plant manager Kasey Patton shared the excitement, stating, "We watch the AFC and NFC Championship games, and once they are over, we spring into action." This is a critical time, as the factory gears up to produce the balls that will be used in one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
Craftsmanship and Precision
The process of making these balls is not just about speed; it’s about craftsmanship. The workers at Wilson take immense pride in their work. Patton emphasizes the buzz that comes with being part of such a significant event. "It’s the pride that these people have, the craftsmanship that goes on out there," he said.
Each ball undergoes a meticulous 20-step process. This includes cutting leather, sewing liners onto the leather, stitching the balls together, and lacing them up. Throughout this process, the balls are weighed, measured, and inspected for any flaws. The Super Bowl work is reserved for the factory’s most experienced and skilled workers, ensuring that only the best products make it to the field.
The Urgency of Production
Time is of the essence in this bustling factory. Typically, it takes about three days to make a ball, but for the Super Bowl, the first batch must be completed and delivered within 18 hours after the championship games. Workers are often up through the night, preparing and crafting the first set of balls.
Both the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs will receive a shipment of 108 balls each for practice and the game. An additional dozen will be set aside specifically for kickers to practice with. Some of these balls will be used for general practice, while the best ones will be selected by the quarterbacks for the big day.
A Unique Product for a Unique Event
What makes these Super Bowl balls special? For starters, they will be stamped with the Super Bowl logo and the team names, making them a unique piece of memorabilia. Unlike the balls sold in stores, professional balls do not have the large stripe around the ends. They also feature embedded chips that allow stats teams to track the ball’s position on the field, its distance traveled, and the trajectory of throws.
Patton added, "Certain parts of the process require a handmade feel. It’s like making a beautiful, sculpted pair of shoes." This attention to detail is what sets the Super Bowl balls apart from the rest.
The Night Shift: Workers’ Dedication
As the clock ticks down to the Super Bowl, the dedication of the workers at Wilson becomes even more apparent. They work tirelessly, often through the night, to ensure that every ball meets the high standards expected for the championship game.
Nicole Snyder, one of the factory employees, operates the machine that prints "Philadelphia Eagles" and "Kansas City Chiefs" onto the official game balls. The energy in the factory is palpable, as everyone understands the significance of their work.
A Legacy of Excellence
Wilson has been a staple in the football industry for decades, and their legacy continues with each Super Bowl. The craftsmanship, the urgency, and the pride that go into making these balls are a testament to the factory’s commitment to excellence.
As the teams prepare for the big game, the balls crafted in Ada, Ohio, will play a crucial role. About 50 balls will be locked away for the kickoff on Sunday, February 9.
The Final Touches
Once the balls are finished, they undergo a final inspection before being shipped. This is where the factory’s commitment to quality shines through. Kevin Murphy, general manager of Wilson Team Sports, noted, "None of this would be possible without the individuals on the production floor. It’s all about the craftsmen and women in there."
The Super Bowl is not just a game; it’s a culmination of hard work, dedication, and passion. From the players on the field to the workers in the factory, everyone plays a part in making this event unforgettable.
As we look forward to the thrilling match-up between the Eagles and the Chiefs, let’s remember the incredible effort that goes into every aspect of the game, including the very balls that will be used to score touchdowns and make history.
