The National Lacrosse League today named Riddell Lacrosse as its exclusive jersey provider for the 2004 season.

Chicago-based Riddell will also become the exclusive licensee of replica NLL jerseys and will assist the league in placing merchandise in American and Canadian retail stores.

"Aligning ourselves with a company like Riddell is a big step for our growth," NLL commissioner Jim Jennings said. "Riddell is entering the lacrosse business and we look forward to helping them spearhead their vision within the sport."

Riddell, best known for manufacturing football helmets for over a half-century, has branched out into the lacrosse business in recent years. The company produces helmets, gloves, arm pads, and shoulder pads for lacrosse use.

"We’re very excited to form our new partnership with the National Lacrosse League," Don Shea, Riddell vice president of licensing and lacrosse, said. "We think the League is on a terrific growth trajectory, has the best lacrosse players in the world and it's a wonderful venue for Riddell."

Replica jersey distribution will be handled by sister company Shamrock Lacrosse.