AWC warns of possible marketing scam

A marketing company is fraudulently using the Arizona Western College Matadors to solicit sponsorships and advertising deals, say AWC officials.

According to AWC, Texas-based Jams Sports Marketing is reportedly soliciting advertising sponsorships and T-shirt logo deals without authorization from the college.

AWC alerted Yuma businesses about the alleged scam on Wednesday after the marketing company reportedly contacted at least two local businesses within the last two days.

According to the businesses, Jam Sports offered them an opportunity to sponsor a T-shirt to raise money for the AWC Cheer Team. The company said it would put their logo on shirts that would be thrown into the crowd at college sporting events.

AWC stated that the claims made by Jam Sports are “completely false” and that the marketing company is in no way affiliated with the college or its athletic teams and associations.

AWC also said Jam Sports is not authorized to use the college name or logo “in any way, shape or form” and has not applied to do so.

The college asks that any business contacted by Jam Sports claiming to be representing AWC “should in no way agree to any sponsorship deals or give out any personal or business information.”

Businesses contacted by Jam Sports are encouraged to report it to AWC Campus Police at 314-9500.

Mara Knaub can be reached at mknaub@yumasun.com or 539-6856.