165 NFL Linebacker Ilia Jarostchuk on the Business Behind Championship Rings

Former NFL linebacker Ilia Jarostchuk knows what it takes to compete at the highest level. After being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1987, he spent six seasons in the NFL before eventually finding his way back into sports through Southern Recognition.Today, Ilia works with professional teams, colleges, and organizations to create custom championship rings, challenge coins, and recognition pieces that commemorate their biggest achievements.We talked about the creativity and storytelling behind championship rings, how Southern Recognition turns a season into something athletes can keep for life, and what Ilia’s NFL career taught him about building relationships and winning business in sports.Ilia also shared an important lesson for companies trying to sell to teams and leagues: getting the opportunity is only the beginning. Once the door opens, you have to deliver.