Notice of Proposed Sole Source Purchase

Mississippi State University’s Athletic Department is seeking a sole‑source procurement of Riddell “Axiom” and “Speedflex” True Football Helmets and related components. The helmets feature scan‑to‑fit technology and built‑in impact‑analytics platforms, which the university claims are essential for player safety and performance monitoring. Riddell is the exclusive manufacturer of these scan‑to‑fit helmets, making a competitive bid infeasible. The contract is structured as a two‑year, not‑to‑exceed $400,000 total spend, with a maximum of $200,000 per year for 3‑4 helmet combinations. The university has worked with a regional Riddell representative to secure bulk pricing. • Item: Axiom and Speedflex True Football Helmets (scan‑to‑fit) with impact‑analytics. • Supplier: Riddell All American Sports – sole source. • Estimated spend: up to $400,000 over 2 years ($200k per year). • Contract length: 2 years, renewable at university discretion. • Purpose: Enhance athlete head‑injury safety and collect impact data for the football program. • Procurement type: Sole source request (no competitive bidding).