Should I be willing to accept a product-only sponsorship deal?

Yes, absolutely. Starting with a product-only deal is the standard path to building a sponsorship relationship. Cam shared that even world champion teams with big sponsors started their Optima relationship with just four batteries per year. Athletes who get upset when offered product-only deals instead of cash demonstrate a poor attitude that brands don't want to be associated with. Being willing to 'grow with' a brand and have a 'honeymoon experience' shows the right mentality. Those who accept product-only deals and prove their value are the ones who eventually receive larger sponsorships.