Every spring in Bloomington, the energy shifts. The air feels a little more electric, the campus a little more alive. Something only the Little 500 season can do. Whether you’re lining up at Bill Armstrong Stadium or cheering from the stands in cream and crimson, Little 500 isn’t just a race. It’s a tradition rooted in history, teamwork, and school pride.

At Kelley, we talk a lot about momentum. Building it, sustaining it, and knowing when to push ahead. Few alumni embody that mindset better than Conner Hitchcock, founder of Homefield Apparel. His journey from Indiana University student to entrepreneur mirrors the spirit of the Little 500: fast-paced, strategic, and fueled by passion.

Conner was a former Kelley Outfitters student who saw an opportunity others overlooked. Nostalgic, high-quality collegiate apparel that tells a story. That idea became Homefield Apparel, a brand that has since grown into a favorite among sports fans nationwide. Today, the brand partners with dozens of universities, helping fans reconnect with the heritage behind their team colors

For students in Kelley Outfitters, Conner’s story is more than inspiring. It shows how a strong understanding of branding, combined with genuine passion, can turn an idea into something lasting. It also reinforces the importance of storytelling. Homefield doesn’t just sell apparel, but rather sells a connection to schools, to memories, and to moments like the Little 500.

The Little 500 reminds us that success isn’t just about the final lap. It’s about everything that leads up to it. The early mornings, the teamwork, the setbacks, and the determination to keep going. Conner Hitchcock’s journey is proof that the Kelley experience doesn’t end at graduation. It evolves, accelerates, and leaves a lasting mark. And if Conner’s story tells us anything, it’s that when preparation meets passion, you’re always in the race.