Lansing Athletics: A Fourth-Down Gamble That Keeps Paying Off
By RAUL GARCIA JR | Lansing News Wire
Just like the Detroit Lions aren’t afraid to take risks on fourth down, neither is Al Salas, the owner and operator of Lansing Athletics, a long-standing retail staple now located inside the Lansing Mall. For over four decades, Salas has been suiting up Mid-Michigan in custom sportswear and authentic team gear, betting on bold business moves — and winning.
Founded 42 years ago on Lansing’s Southside, Lansing Athletics began as a small custom apparel business and has grown into a trusted source for screen printing, embroidery, vinyl printing, and official team merchandise. Salas relocated the shop to the mall, where it now operates out of a 1,000-square-foot storefront, offering everything from hoodies and jackets to t-shirts, pajamas, and hats — all customizable and available for fans of professional, college, and local high school teams.
“I started this store a long time ago because I saw the need in Lansing for a place that carried merchandise for all teams,” Salas said. “Even though I’ve been in business for 42 years, a lot of people still don’t know everything we carry — so I welcome them to come visit us at Lansing Athletics.”
A Texas native, Salas says his passion for Detroit teams didn’t start at birth, but rather out of love. In the early ‘90s, he swapped his Dallas Cowboys loyalty to impress his future wife, a die-hard Lions fan. “She didn’t like me that much the day we met because I was wearing a Cowboys t-shirt,” Salas joked. “The next day, I showed up to her job in a Lions hat and shirt — and the rest is history.”
That loyalty translated into business, too. Last year, Salas went “all in” on the Detroit Lions, betting on their breakout season by heavily stocking Lions merchandise — a decision that paid off as fan demand surged. “Business picked up, and I’m happy God blessed me with the vision to double down,” he said.
Lansing Athletics isn’t just a store — it’s a community hub, especially for local schools, sports teams, and small businesses looking for custom gear.
As a proud Latino-owned business, it’s also listed in the Mid-Michigan Latino Business Directory, further cementing its connection to the community.
Salas remains grateful for the loyalty of his customers — both old and new. “It’s because of them that we’re still here,” he said. “Thank you for shopping local. Thank you for shopping Lansing Athletics.”
For more information or to browse their selection, visit www.lansingathletics.com or stop by the store at 5330 W. Saginaw Hwy in the Lansing Mall.