SafeTGard Corporation founded National Hydration Day in honor of football Coach Victor Hawkins (September 1, 1964 – June 23, 2012) who invented a mouthguard that releases electrolytes to keep his players hydrated during games and practices. This day honors Coach Hawkins’ contributions to athlete health, safety, and success. SafeTGard Corporation founded the day in 2016 to increase awareness of the importance of proper hydration to athletes everywhere.
On June 21, 2016, the Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day to be observed on June 23rd, annually.