The Commercial Committee, a tripartite group made up of representatives from the BSF, BBF and BSUK, has brokered a three-year deal with Ransome Sporting Goods to supply exclusive Federation-branded softballs and baseballs to BSF and BBF members.
With softball and baseball two of the fastest-growing sports in the UK, it is estimated that in excess of 30,000 new balls are now used each season.
Custom ball
Under the deal, for the 2015 playing season, Baden Sports will produce new custom-made official 12-inch and 11-inch softballs at an excellent price, branded with the BSF logo. Unlike the BBF, the BSF has not made the use of these balls mandatory, but the BSF Executive is fully committed to the official ball and will use it in all events and competitions under its control.
The balls will be supplied through The Softball Shop on www.thesoftballshop.co.uk or by phoning 0800-458-2442, and will be available from the beginning of April at a cost of £43.50 per dozen if you enter the discount code BSF-14.
The direct contact at The Softball Shop is Mike Ford (m.ford@rsgsport.com).
Special discount
During March, until the first shipment of the new balls arrives from Seattle, Ransome Sporting Goods is offering a special deal to BSF leagues and teams. Current warehouse stock of the GB300 and GB11 softballs is available for £42.00 per dozen when the same discount code (BSF-14) is used.
BSF General Officer Mark Munnery said: "Through the Commercial Committee, the BSF will continue to explore all available commercial opportunities so that the playing membership can benefit directly from the combined purchasing power of the three organisations. We urge the softball community to fully support this initiative, as we have brokered a very competitive long-term arrangement."