Mississippi Jury Rules in Favor of Riddell

ROSEMONT, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Riddell, the football helmet industry leader, announced today, following a week-long trial, that a jury in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi unanimously ruled in favor of Riddell in a case which challenged the protective qualities of Riddell’s football helmets. A spokesperson for Riddell emphasized that no piece of equipment is capable of preventing all injuries in an active sport. Nevertheless, Riddell has been recognized by independent evaluations at leading universities as being the leader in effective helmet design.

“We are sensitive and concerned for this young athlete considering the injury that he suffered. We extend our best wishes to him and to his family.”

“We are pleased that the jury recognized the rigorous approach that Riddell brings to the research, development, testing and certification of our protective sports equipment,” said Thomas Merrigan, the company’s general counsel. This was demonstrated in a thorough and detailed presentation of evidence during the trial. The case was filed by a parent of a high school football player who was injured in a George County High School football game on September 13, 2006 in Lucedale, Miss.

“We are sensitive and concerned for this young athlete considering the injury that he suffered. We extend our best wishes to him and to his family.”

ABOUT RIDDELL

Founded in 1929, Riddell is a premier designer and developer of protective sports equipment and a recognized leader in helmet technology and innovation. One of Easton-Bell Sports, Inc.’s most well-known brands and the Official Helmet of the NFL^®, Riddell is the leading manufacturer of football helmets, shoulder pads and reconditioning services (cleaning, repairing, repainting and recertifying existing equipment).