Octagon Speakers

Under Armour began in 1995 as an idea by founder, Kevin Plank, then special teams captain of the University of Maryland football team.  Tired of repeatedly changing the cotton T-shirt under his jersey as it became wet and heavy during the course of a game, Plank set out to develop a next generation shirt that would remain drier and lighter.  He created a new category of sporting apparel called performance apparel, and built Under Armour into a leading developer, marketer, and distributor of branded performance apparel, footwear and accessories.  Since that time, Under Armour has grown into a worldwide business with 2,700 employees and revenue approaching $1 billion.  The main catalyst behind Under Armour's growth is undoubtedly Plank's determination and desire to succeed.

Plank has served as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors since 1996, and served as President from 1996 to July 2008.  Plank is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the University of Maryland College Park Foundation.