A former college athlete with a passion for sports, DAVID BECKERMAN launches Starter. A sporting goods and apparel business in New Haven CT. The name was chosen for its simplicity and because every athlete dreams of being a starting player

At the time it was difficult to find licensed sports apparel in the store, so Beckerman convinced Major League Baseball's Licensing Corp. to grant him a license in 1976 to produce licensed sports apparel, jackets and accessories. Licenses for the NBA and NHL quickly followed.

In 1983, the NFL finally agreed to a deal after eight years of rejection. By this time, Starter had every major professional sport in its lineup.

On-field/on-court supplier for all major pro leagues.

The movie "Coming to America" features Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall wearing Yankees and Mets Starter Jackets in a scene that would become iconic to this day.

In the early 1990s, Starter began to expand its distribution networks to reach over 25 countries in North America, Europe, and the Pacific Rim.

In 2021, Starter celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a yearlong partnership with Budweiser, featuring exclusive drops – including a special collection for the return of the Bud Bowl during Super Bowl LV, the ultimate meeting of sport and fan culture.

In 2023, Starter and the NHL team up for The Black Ice Collection, a limited-edition release that merges hockey and street style.

In 2024, Starter partners with Levi’s® to launch a collection of teams jackets spanning major leagues, a tribute to two iconic American brands that have shaped culture for generations. Team Starter debuts, offering a seamless online platform for custom team uniforms, making it easier for teams to design their own apparel.