Every Touchdown Starts in Hardin County: The Magic of the Wilson Football Factory

Every Touchdown Starts in Hardin County: Innovation on the Gridiron

When the world tunes in for Super Bowl Sunday, all eyes are on the star quarterbacks and the high-stakes plays. But for those of us in Hardin County, the real MVP is already on the field before the coin toss.

Every single yard gained, every spiraling pass, and every historic touchdown in the Super Bowl happens with a ball that was born right here in Ada, Ohio.

A Featured Stop on the Ohio Innovation Trail

It’s no secret that Ohio is a land of inventors, from the Wright brothers to Thomas Edison. Today, that legacy of "practical genius" continues at the Wilson Football Factory, which has officially been named a featured stop on the Ohio Innovation Trail.

As part of the America 250-Ohio celebrations, the trail highlights sites where Ohioans have reshaped how we live and play. In Ada, that innovation is found in the hands of the craftspeople who have perfected a 20-step manufacturing process that remains virtually unchanged since 1955.

A Legacy Handcrafted in Ada

While much of the world has moved toward automation, the craftspeople at Wilson have doubled down on tradition. In their brand-new, $15 million facility (opened in May 2024), "The Duke"—the official game ball of the NFL—is still handcrafted.

There are no robots here. Instead, you’ll find 150 dedicated local residents cutting, sewing, steaming, and lacing. It is a masterclass in American manufacturing, ensuring the highest level of sport is played with a ball of unmatched quality and consistency.

The "Super Bowl Sunday" Crunch

The most exciting time at the factory happens right after the Conference Championship games. As soon as the two Super Bowl teams are decided, the factory goes into high gear. Within 24 hours, team logos are stamped onto the leather and the balls are shipped directly to the stadium. It’s a high-pressure "innovation sprint" that happens every single year, right in our backyard.

Plan Your Innovation Tour

The new Wilson facility is a true destination. Visitors can explore the on-site museum to see historical artifacts from NFL history and browse the retail store for exclusive gear you won't find anywhere else.

Want to see the magic in person? Guided tours are available for fans who want a front-row seat to the production floor. You’ll see "The Duke" come to life and meet the talented team that makes Super Bowl Sunday possible.

• Schedule Your Tour: To book a spot for yourself or a group, visit the official Wilson Football Factory Tour Page.
• Location: 517 East Highland Avenue, Ada, OH 45810
• Pro Tip: Tours are a 60-minute paid experience.  They fill up fast, especially leading up to the Super Bowl, so be sure to book in advance.

Experience Ada: While you're here, continue your "innovation tour" by exploring the Ohio Northern University campus—home to the Dial-Roberson Stadium—and the charming shops of Downtown Ada. See for yourself why this small village is known globally as the "Football Capital of the World."