(Hastings, NE) Tractor Tuesday is excited to announce that Purdue University wrestler James Rowley has signed a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal to become a brand ambassador. Tractor Tuesday is an online auction platform for producers, empowering equipment owners with the tools to successfully represent and sell their own equipment. This collaboration is a great fit, bringing together an incredible student-athlete with a company dedicated to supporting athletes from agricultural backgrounds.
In high school, James was a four time Oregon State champ, a Cadet World Silver medalist in 2021, and a Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award winner for his Oregon and the entire West region, being recognized for his wrestling achievements, scholastic success, and community service. Now he is the starting 184-pounder at Purdue, going into his second season.
James grew up on an 80-acre commercial sheep ranch. His his family raised fine wool sheep and sold the wool to Pendelton for it to be made into dress shirts, while their lamb ended up at high-end grocery stores and restaurants across the country. James credits his agricultural upbringing with instilling him the values to achieve success, saying, “From an early age, I was given responsibilities and was expected to contribute to the ranch’s operations. Working alongside my parents instilled a deep sense of discipline, while their high expectations pushed me to excel both on the ranch and as a student-athlete.” He continued, “Hard work and family are the cornerstones of agriculture, and producing food for others is an honest, noble pursuit. These lessons continue to shape my life and drive me toward success.” Though he is aiming to go to law school, James plans to one day raise his future family in an agricultural environment.
James is proud to be a brand ambassador for Tractor Tuesday, representing the company in various marketing campaigns and community outreach initiatives. He said that it is “an honor to my parents who were third-generation ranchers.” He also looks to inspire athletes from a similar background. “I came from a state that is not known for wrestling, but the number one industry in Oregon is Ag. There are many young ranch kids from states like mine who can be inspired by student athletes who grew up just like them and go on to be college athletes.”
“We’re more than happy to have James as a brand ambassador,” said Zach Bosle, CEO of Tractor Tuesday. “He is an outstanding wrestler, a strong student, and also a great representative of agricultural values.”
This NIL deal underscores Tractor Tuesday’s commitment to creating opportunities for college athletes from farm and ranch backgrounds, helping them succeed in their athletic careers while staying connected to their roots.
2 responses to “Tractor Tuesday Signs Purdue Wrestler James Rowley as Brand Ambassador”
James, you are an amazing young man and I am proud to be your “aunt”!
Congratulations. I remember the small boy throwing a football with your father at a sheepdog trial. You have grown to be a wonderful young man. 🎈