The Arena Football League and Schutt Sports announced a multi-level partnership designating Schutt as an Arena Authentics supplier. The four-year agreement begins with the 2006 season. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Schutt will provide AFL teams with equipment that includes helmets, chin straps, chin cup sleeves, faceguards, shoulder pads, and pant inserts. In addition, Schutt will engage in joint retail and youth football marketing initiatives.

“This is much more than a standard helmet agreement,” said president, AFL Properties Glenn Horine. “Schutt is committing to the AFL on multiple levels by supplying protective equipment and offering a unique helmet re-design program to our teams. They are also making a major marketing commitment, as well as acting as a collectible licensee. We are proud to partner with a sports equipment innovator such as Schutt, who believes in the AFL’s mission and direction.”

Teams will have the opportunity to work with Schutt to develop new faceguard designs and team-helmet paint schemes. Schutt possesses the exclusive license to produce AFL helmet collectibles that will help continue the AFL’s growth at retail. In addition, Schutt will be integrated into the AFL’s key marketing platforms with specific program elements to be finalized in the coming weeks.

“Schutt is very pleased to have been selected as the Protective Equipment and Reconditioning Supplier of the Arena Football League,” said Julie Nimmons, CEO of Schutt Sports. “The AFL brings an innovative approach to the game of football, and Schutt Sports brings innovation to the playing field with our products and services. Putting the two together just makes a lot of sense. We are proud to be apart of the AFL team.”

As part of the agreement, Schutt will receive on-field branding at every AFL game.