D1A College Rugby has signed a partnership deal with Webb Ellis Apparel.

The name Webb Ellis is the oldest recognized name in the world of rugby, and Webb Ellis Ltd is based 50 yards from where the game originated in the market town of Rugby, Warwickshire, England. This world-renowned manufacturer of rugby teamwear, rugby match balls and training balls has been a supplier to major tournaments and teams worldwide. As a result of this partnership between Webb Ellis Ltd and Division 1A Colleges in the USA, D1A athletes will now be a part of the Webb Ellis family.

This new deal sees all teams in the division sponsored by Webb Ellis with elite level match balls.

“This is a fantastic deal for the Webb Ellis brand in North America," said Webb Ellis Technical Officer Rod Webb. "It is a great opportunity to make further strides forward in key rugby market. To have all the top US College players using the Webb Ellis balls is a massive endorsement for the technical quality of the match ball. We are looking forward to a long and prosperous partnership.”

Additionally, the deal also sees Division 1A take on exclusive sales, marketing and distribution rights for the Webb Ellis brand in the USA.

“The quality of the Webb Ellis Spectral Inspire match ball is excellent," said D1A Commissioner Kevin Battle. "The teams will look forward to playing with them. It is great to have the backing of Webb Ellis who have supplied match balls to the biggest tournaments and teams around the world. Furthermore, wee see having the sole rights for the brand in the USA as a good opportunity to distribute great quality kit directly to the Colleges across the country. The extensive range of match, training, and leisure apparel, which we are offering, is an exciting development for D1A Rugby – a development which we see as benefiting the college game in the USA.”