Whataburger announced on March 10 a new statewide sponsorship with the Georgia High School Association, set to begin at the 2026 GHSA Basketball State Championships in Macon. The partnership will extend throughout the year, supporting student athletes and their communities at various championship events and local activities across Georgia.
The collaboration is significant as it aims to enhance experiences for student athletes in more than 457 public and private high schools governed by the association. Whataburger’s involvement will include support for basketball, soccer, and football title events, as well as select game day activations and community initiatives.
“At Whataburger, supporting student athletes is about more than the scoreboard. It’s about showing up for the moments that bring communities together,” said Shirley Belue, Whataburger Brand Leader, and Zack Kollias, President & COO of Made to Order Holdings, in a joint statement. “For generations, Whataburger has been the after-game gathering place where teammates, families, and fans celebrate wins, regroup after tough losses, and make memories over hot, fresh food. Partnering with GHSA allows us to keep investing in Georgia schools, communities, and the young people who inspire us.”
As part of this sponsorship, Whataburger will engage with students and fans through event signage at championships, in-game promotions, digital engagement efforts, on-site activities during events, and special fundraising opportunities benefiting local schools. Additional high school football game day activations are planned later in the year.
Dr. Tim Scott, Executive Director of the Georgia High School Association said: “The Georgia High School Association is proud to welcome Whataburger as a partner. The GHSA exists to provide student-athletes with opportunities to grow, compete, and represent their schools with pride. Partnerships like this allow us to elevate the championship experience while strengthening the connection between our schools and the communities that support them. We appreciate Whataburger’s commitment to investing in Georgia’s students and communities, and we look forward to building something meaningful together.”
Key upcoming events featuring Whataburger include the Basketball State Championships from March 11–14 in Macon; Soccer State Championships from May 12–15 at multiple locations; and Football State Championships scheduled for December in Atlanta.
