Freshman defensive back Koi Perich of the Minnesota Golden Gophers has signed an NIL deal with NutriSource Pet Food to promote the “B.A.R.K. Buddies” program at M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital and the Institute for the Developing Brain, per Dinkytown Athletes.
The program, established in 2019, uses trained therapy dogs to help young patients manage anxiety during treatment. For many children, the visits from these dogs provide a moment of comfort and calm during challenging times, making the initiative a cherished part of the hospital’s care approach.
NutriSource CEO Charlie Nelson, a former Minnesota baseball player, highlighted the company’s Minnesota roots, which have grown into a nationwide presence. Partnering with a local star like Perich aligns perfectly with the company’s commitment to the state and its communities.
“It’s an honor for me to represent a company like NutriSource that loves Minnesota as much as I do,” Perich said. “They are committed to our state, our communities, and our kids. Spending time at the hospital with these kids and their families, putting a smile on their faces, and helping them forget their struggles for a while is incredibly rewarding.”
Perich, a native of Esko, Minnesota, was the top recruit in the state and one of the best players in his class. His impact has been immediate in his debut season with the Gophers, leading the team with five interceptions and demonstrating elite coverage skills. Though he’s still refining his tackling, his development as a freshman has been impressive.
This NIL deal also highlights Minnesota‘s growing efforts to leverage local partnerships to enhance their recruiting and competitiveness. Last year’s recruiting class, bolstered by Perich, finished just outside the Top 30, while the current class sits at No. 47, per 247Sports. Partnerships like this one signal a step forward in supporting both athletes and the broader community.
