Kempele baseball club’s support shirt sells out in four hours after viral success

A local baseball club in Kempele, Finland, has collaborated with the local church to create a surprising hit product that sold out within four hours. The men’s team of Kempeleen Kiri launched a support shirt featuring the phrase “Thank you, Jesus, thank you.” Only 80 shirts were available for purchase.

The slogan has generated mixed reactions on social media, where the shirt was primarily promoted. A post on Kiri’s Instagram account showcasing the shirt received over a thousand likes. Comments included remarks such as “Great awareness of the situation” and “Now we’ve seen a new low.”

The shirt’s text originates from the team itself. After securing a spot in the semi-finals during a match in Vimpeli on Sunday, the players gathered to chant, “Thank you, Jesus, thank you!” Tuukka Myllymäki, the communications manager for the Kempele parish, was following the game and shortly after the team’s victory, the idea for a parish-sponsored support shirt was born. The unique and unscripted situation prompted the employer’s approval, as well as the baseball club’s.

Myllymäki expressed gratitude for the supportive feedback received, even from southern Finland, highlighting that the club and the potential for a medal are again in the spotlight. Sami Saloranta, manager of the men’s super baseball team, was surprised by the shirt’s remarkable success. He noted that in his 18 years as manager, no fan product had sold so quickly online.

Saloranta has also received comments about the shirt’s text but hopes for more collaboration rather than exclusion. The limited edition shirt will likely remain a collector’s item, with only 80 pieces in print, despite dozens waiting for more. Starting August 30, fans will first see the shirts during Kempeleen Kiri’s home game against Manse PP, when they will be distributed to buyers.