Middleton, MA – December 23, 2009 – Extra Innings today announced the formation of a new strategic partnership with Nike/SPARQ.

Starting in 2010, Extra Innings franchise locations nationwide will have the opportunity to become SPARQ Rating Authorized, giving them the ability to offer Nike/SPARQ Testing for baseball and fastpitch softball players at their facilities. In offering Nike/SPARQ testing, Extra Innings will be providing another valuable service to help its customers prepare for the upcoming baseball and softball seasons. Additionally all participating Extra Innings locations will be able to carry Nike/SPARQ products in their Pro Shop.

SPARQ is an acronym that stands for Speed, Power, Agility, Reaction and Quickness – the five key elements of athleticism. SPARQ provides athletes across all sports and at all levels training targeted to help them improve in each of the five key elements of athleticism. Additionally, SPARQ provides tool; testing protocols and ratings – to help athletes assess and improve their athleticism and monitor their improvement from year to year. SPARQ is dedicated to giving athletes the information and inspiration they need to improve their athletic performance.

Extra Innings Training Centers are unique in the marketplace. Each facility, regardless of size, offers year-round practice facilities for ballplayers of all ages and ability levels, professional instruction, and a nationally recognized Pro Shop that carries the top brands of baseball and softball equipment and apparel available today.