A Full-Circle Moment for SAFR Leadership and Wake Forest Alums
PHILADELPHIA — July 31, 2025— SAFR, a national leader in athlete safety innovation, proudly announces that Wake Forest University’s football team is now equipped with SAFR Helmet Covers, made possible through the generous support of alumnus and SAFR Hero, David Couch.
A SAFR Hero is an individual or organization who desires to give back to a certain school or program by financially backing the purchase of SAFR Helmet Covers. This investment provides the entire team with this proven head trauma protective safety gear.
This milestone represents more than just a commitment to player safety—it’s a deeply personal, full-circle moment for SAFR’s leadership. John Zeglinski, CEO of SAFR and a proud Wake Forest alumnus, presented the covers alongside SAFR Chairman Carlos Bradley and Board Member David Couch. All three men played football at Wake Forest.
“Wake Forest and SAFR Helmet Covers are committed to the same mission of increasing player safety for our football student-athletes. We appreciate their partnership, providing us with their newest technology in helmet protection,” said Niles Fleet, Associate Athletic Director and Head Athletic Trainer.
“Returning to the field where it all started for many of us and seeing today’s student-athletes wearing SAFR helmet covers, is incredibly meaningful,” said Zeglinski. “Thanks to David’s support, we’re able to give back to a community that shaped our values and vision.”
Couch, a longtime supporter of Wake Forest athletics and a recognized previous SAFR Hero, stepped forward to sponsor the gear. The Wake Forest Baseball Park is also named after Couch.
“Wake Forest has always stood for excellence on and off the field. Ensuring their athletes have access to cutting-edge safety equipment like SAFR helmet covers is just one more way to uphold that tradition,” said Couch.
SAFR Helmet Covers are designed to reduce the impact forces that contribute to head injuries. Their adoption by Wake Forest reflects a growing commitment among college programs to prioritize athlete health without compromising performance.
“As former athletes, we understand the physical toll this game can take. That’s why it’s so important to us to be part of the solution,” said Carlos Bradley, Chairman of SAFR and Wake Forest Football Alumni. “Equipping Wake Forest’s team with SAFR helmet covers is more than a safety upgrade, it’s my promise to protect the next generation.”
About SAFR
SAFR is a leading innovator in helmet cover safety technology, dedicated to reducing concussions and improving player safety at all levels of football in both practice and games. SAFR’s patented helmet cover is designed to integrate seamlessly with modern helmets, offering unparalleled protection without compromising aesthetics or performance. Led by CEO John “Ziggy” Zeglinski and Chairman Carlos Bradley, SAFR Sports is committed to protecting youth athletes through innovative helmet technology and a mission-driven approach rooted in decades of sports and leadership experience. Both men are Philadelphia Natives, and proud Wake Forest alumni.
