Van Nuys, Calif. – February 4, 2016 – Easton Baseball/Softball, a leading manufacturer of baseball and softball equipment, and Little League® announced today an expanded exclusive partnership through the 2022 season.
Under this new, long-term partnership, Easton Baseball/Softball will continue to be the Official Team Equipment Supplier to Little League Baseball and Softball, with support provided to all nine Little League World Series (LLWS) events. Teams playing in a LLWS will receive team donation kits which may include a mix of various EASTON helmets, ball gloves, bats, batter’s gloves, catcher’s gear, backpacks and cleats through a professional and fun fitting experience that helps players of all abilities find the right EASTON equipment for their game.
Easton Baseball/Softball also has the exclusive opportunity to provide baseball and softball experiences at all LLWS events, which will showcase the EASTON brand and its latest products.
“We’ve been a proud partner of Little League for nearly 40 years, and it’s a privilege for us to have the opportunity to continue as an official sponsor,” said Todd Harman, Executive Vice President, Easton Baseball/Softball. “Little League’s premier events provide young athletes with the ultimate stage to showcase their team’s talents, as well as how much the sport has to offer as a fun activity for kids and families. As the No. 1 brand of choice at these events, we’re excited to continue our support and expand our consumer engagement activities.”
In addition to interacting with athletes participating in LLWS games, the exclusive EASTON experiences provide the brand with a unique opportunity to connect with the tens of thousands of Little League fans. These experiences will be featured at Little League Baseball® and Little League Softball® World Series events, as well as the Little League (50/70) Intermediate, Junior, Senior and Big League divisions in baseball; and the Junior, Senior and Big League divisions in softball.
“Little League and Easton have enjoyed a great partnership over the years,” said Stephen D. Keener, Little League President and CEO. “Through the support of our national sponsors, Little League is able to provide important resources for our million volunteers, as they support the 2.4 million children playing Little League in more than 80 countries. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners at Easton to grow the games of baseball and softball around the world.”
Easton Baseball/Softball also launched an exclusive licensing partnership with Little League in the fall of 2015, providing a line of co-branded equipment including batter’s gloves, backpacks and the MAKO ball glove. The MAKO ball glove was available at select retail partners this past fall.
Easton Baseball/Softball will also continue its partnership with Little League to help increase participation in these sports through grassroots outreach and other initiatives.