Our History

Welcome!

We’re thrilled you’re here—because we’re a lot alike, you and us. We share a passion for unique team sports. Sports that are not played by everybody else. Special sports.

Growing the game since 1961

Grandpa Crijns founded Forelle in 1961, initially developing leotards. The elastic fabric of the leotard was similar to the skin of a fish, hence the name “forel” meaning “trout”. Grandpa Crijns quickly changed locations to prepare for international expansion.

During the 1980s, Forelle started off by selling Rugby equipment, slowly expanding to American football equipment, and eventually including baseball and softball equipment.

In the 90s, Forelle became the official supplier of well-known American brands, such as Louisville Slugger, Rawlings, and Wilson. They have been with us ever since!

Finally, In 2021, Forelle establishes itself as a brand, and presents our current logo. This is the Forelle we know and love today.

Today, we are proud to be the biggest American sporting equipment supplier in Europe, a real game changer if you ask us.

Our Playbook

As a third generation family business, we know a thing or two about carrying the ball. We have been specializing in American team sports equipment for over 60 years! We may not have a home field advantage, but we consistently go the distance to ensure you have the best equipment you otherwise wouldn’t find in your local sports store. Whether you need balls, bats, or bags, we want to ensure you will bring your A-game every time.

Our long business experience has resulted in strong partnerships with the biggest American brands. This enables us to offer you the widest range of equipment in Europe at very competitive prices. Whether you’re a catcher, a quarterback, or the coach, you and your team shouldn’t have to spend big to play big.

Our Home Base

Our new 4000m² warehouse helps us to be a reliable online Baseball/Softball and American Football supplier for teams and wholesale supplier for shops all across Europe. We offer services in Dutch, German and English.

If you prefer a physical visit, we gladly welcome you to our showroom in Roermond. Here, you can experience our quality equipment, as well as consult our experts for all of your questions.