U20 World Champion and South Carolina Star Akala Garrett Joins On’s NIL Roster
The hurdles sensation and 2026 All-American brings elite speed and infectious energy to the Swiss sportswear brand.
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, April 15 2026 — Swiss sportswear brand On is proud to announce the signing of University of South Carolina standout Akala Garrett to a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) partnership. A former World U20 Champion and a cornerstone of South Carolina’s track program.
Before her collegiate debut, she was a dominant force in North Carolina prep sports, capturing a staggering 16 state titles at Albemarle and Harding University High Schools. In 2022, she reached the pinnacle of the global scene, winning World U20 gold in both the 400m hurdles and the 4x400m relay, clocking a world-leading U20 time of 56.16.
Her collegiate trajectory has been equally meteoric. During her sophomore season, Garrett broke the University of Texas program record in the 400m hurdles with a blistering 53.73—a mark that remains No. 9 all-time in NCAA history. After transferring to the University of South Carolina, she immediately made her mark in Columbia, shattering the Gamecocks’ indoor program record in the 60m hurdles with a time of 8.04 in February 2026.
Garrett arrives at the On family as a four-time First Team All-American, having most recently secured podium honors at the 2026 NCAA Indoor Championships. Beyond the record books, she has become a fan favorite and a selfless teammate, frequently anchoring high-stakes relays for the Gamecocks with her trademark "caffeinated" personality—a term she uses to describe the high-octane energy and positive leadership she brings to every start line.
"Akala is a rare talent who combines technical mastery with an infectious spirit," said Libby Davidson, Athlete Manager at On. "We are thrilled to support her on and off the track— we know she is poised to make a massive global impact.”
About On
On was born in the Swiss Alps in 2010 with the mission to ignite the human spirit through movement – a mission that still guides the brand today. Sixteen years after market launch, On delivers industry-disrupting innovation in premium footwear, apparel and accessories for high-performance running, outdoor, training, all-day activities and tennis. On’s award-winning CloudTec® and LightSpray™ innovation, purposeful design and groundbreaking strides within the circular economy have attracted a fast-growing global fan base – inspiring humans to explore, discover and Dream On.
On is present in more than 80 countries globally and engages with a digital community on www.on.com.