Get a grip

Traditional athletic gloves didn’t cut it for former North Carolina State University (NCSU) football players Jamelle Eugene and DaJuan Morgan. They wanted something that would provide the right grip, but they also wanted to feel the ball to better control it. Instead of gloves, Eugene started taping his fingers to get the friction he needed and still protect his hands.

That gave them the idea for Gryppers, a product that was more like a sleeve that would provide a good grip to maintain control, absorb impact and still let the player feel the ball … and be a fashion statement for athletes.

They worked on a design but didn’t come up with exactly what they wanted. The two now-former players went back to their alma mater and to NCSU’s College of Textiles, where seniors in the design program tackle projects sponsored by outside companies as part of a competition during the academic year.

The student team, Desirae Scruggs, Jamie McLain and Shannon Tart, helped Eugene and Morgan research and develop their product, looking at every detail, including cost-effective options for materials, coatings, assembly, fabric patterns and manufacturing. The team developed a thin, durable product with a nylon base for moisture wicking and an outer material with a non-skid surface for an enhanced grip. Gryppers allow for a full range of motion and are tight and secure to protect fingers from impact. For more, visit .