Team Insight

EQUIPMENT GOALS/NETS can be well prepared for every seasonal sport. "It's much easier to make the sale when the nets are in hand for the customers immediately," he adds, pointing out that for non-standard size nets custom versions can be manufactured and delivered in just a few weeks. The Tech Story: While technology for netting really isn't changing, every year Carron Net has more requests for nylon nets to replace existing polypropylene product because they last longer and they're made in the U.S. New Product Focus: Carron Nets' official regulation-sized Hercules Pickleball Nets are constructed with side pockets, dowels and vinyl coated steel cable. PORTER ATHLETIC Advice for Team Dealers: "Get out in front early and oen," urges Nick McHale, Porter business development manager, who encourages partners to ask the questions before the major issues arise. "If we can get ahead of the problems, it allows us to be the trusted advisor and to help our customer plan, budget and facilitate an order," he explains. "If we wait until things are on fire and the school comes to us, we become an order taker oen undercut by a lower bid.". New Product Focus: Porter is focusing on portable backstops in 2025. Its 1835 portable backstop is its top-of-the-line competition system, built for the biggest and best basketball arenas. In addition, the 1135 offers the durability and performance of the 1835 packed down into a smaller body. GILL ATHLETICS Advice for Team Dealers: "Get to the coaches and athletic directors before they start Googling it," echoes Gill national business development manager Mike Cunningham. "Trusted advisors get more uncontested opportunities than those who simply react to requests." The Tech Story: Safety takes the lead in 2025. Ball stop nets that help reduce athlete/sport interference and throws cages that provide large viewing areas so more coaches/officials/participants are aware of what happening in the event are ongoing. "ese are target areas for today's equipment and tomorrow," according to Cunnigham. New Product Focus: e new Gill Coliseum Hammer Cage addresses the safety and multi-use concerns that are top-of-mind these days. BLAZER Advice for Team Dealers: To boost sales of soccer goals and nets, team dealers should understand their audience and tailor offerings accordingly, emphasizing quality and safety features, advises sales manager Paige May. "Creating bundled packages, hosting demos and showcasing customer testimonials can enhance appeal," May recommends, while customization options and community engagement, such as sponsoring local teams, help build trust and visibility.. New Product Focus: e new Big Red Baseball/Soball line-up card booklet has 35 game capacity and 19-player line-up. n 32 • Team Insight ~ November/December 2024 teaminsightmag.com New and best-selling new team products for 2025 (from left): Trigon, Porter Athletic, Gill Athletics and Blazer.

• Cover