Tom Harmer Sports in Rockford Is Closing After 74 Years

After 74 years of business in the Rockford area, Tom Harmer Sports is closing its doors and saying goodbye.

THE Place for Sports Equipment in Rockford

I have lived in the Rockford area my whole life, and when I was in school Tom Harmer Sports was the only place we went to for all our sporting needs.

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Need new shin guards because you lost one at your last soccer game? Tom Harmer Sports to the rescue.

Need to get a varsity letter or a new sport added to your letterman jacket? Tom Harmer Sports to the rescue.

I have an entire tote full of old high school spirit wear and jackets sitting on a shelf in my basement, and I guarantee you every piece in there (except the t-shirt I painted with puffy paint at pom camp) was purchased from Tom Harmer Sports.

Sad News From Tom Harmer Sports

Obviously, Tom Harmer Sports and I have a long history, so I was super bummed to see this news come across my social media feed...

These days, a lot of people are making t-shirts and other personalized apparel thanks to Cricuts, heat presses, and sewing machines that do embroidery...are they the ones that need to be blamed for Tom Harmer closing? No, not really.

According to WREX, the businesses current owner, Kathy Harmer, is ready to retire.

Harmer said;

Everybody wants to know what I'm going to do. I've got lots of things. I'm going to enjoy my dogs, go antiquing and just have a good time.

Good for you, Kathy! All your long-term customers will be sad to see you go, but you have definitely earned the time to relax and do the things that bring you the most joy.

When Is Tom Harmer's Last Day?

Now here comes the news you've been waiting for...Tom Harmer's last day of business will be April 1, 2025, so you better run in soon to grab some deals!