CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo.– The Southeast Missouri Department of Athletics announced an exclusive partnership Thursday making Rhodes the Official Fountain Drink of Redhawks Athletics, and Imo's Pizza the Official Pizza of Redhawk Athletics.  
 
As long-time supporters of SEMO Athletics, the multi-year relationship signifies an increased commitment to support Redhawk Athletics and the University. 
 
"We have Southeast Missouri in our blood," said Brent Anderson, Vice President of Operations for Rhodes. "Having served its communities for over 40 years, it only makes sense to partner with another organization that has dedicated itself to our region, Southeast Missouri State University and its Athletics Department. We sought out this relationship because we believe in the extreme loyalty of Redhawks fans and the University's students.  Through our partnership, both fans and students will receive a tremendous experience through unique promotions and events."
 
In addition to the designations as "Official Fountain Drink" and "Official Pizza," Rhodes and Imo's Pizza will receive visibility among the Southeast Missouri State campus community through signage, in-venue promotions and event sponsorship. Redhawk Athletics will also receive discounted pricing for team orders at Imo's Pizza.
 
"We're thankful for the dedicated, longtime commitment of Rhodes convenience stores, and we are excited for the new partnership with Rhodes and Imo's Pizza. Their passion for Southeast Missouri State University and Redhawk Athletics is evident, and this new partnership will be a tremendous benefit to our hard-working student-athletes and coaches," said Director of Athletics Brady Barke.
 
Rhodes was established in 1956 and now employs more than 600 individuals throughout its 30 Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois locations.  As the area's largest convenience store network, Rhodes provides a vast selection of quality products, excellent customer service and convenient locations, many of which include drive-thru service, fresh food items and 24-hour service.  It is also an Imo's Pizza franchisee, with full-scale restaurants located alongsidefive of its Missouri convenience stores; Perryville, Jackson, Scott City, Sikeston and Poplar Bluff. In June 2017, Rhodes purchased the Cape Girardeau standalone Imo's Pizza restaurant, which has been a mainstay in the town for several years.