It seems like every month BSN Sports announces it has purchased another independent team dealer – in July it was Sportline in Colorado, which was preceded in June by Billings Sports in Connecticut – and this month the Varsity Brands unit has acquired Jim Ludtka Sporting Goods, based in upstate Depew, NY.

A second-generation family-owned business in the suburb of Buffalo, Ludtkas has served national and regional custom uniform and team equipment needs since its founding by Jim and Norma Jean Ludtka in 1971. Ludtka, a former New York Yankee shortstop, Baltimore Orioles scout and co-founder of the Cheektowaga semi-pro baseball league, tailored the business to support local baseball leagues and teams before transitioning the business to his daughter and now-former owner, Debbie Lancellotti.

“Given the rich history of the Ludtka name and business in the greater Buffalo area, we are excited to continue the tradition of offering tailored customer service and custom products to their coaches, athletes and customers,” says Terry Babilla, BSN Sports’ president. “We look forward to this opportunity to expand upon the Ludtkas strong foundation by supporting their local and national customer base.”

Lancellotti adds: “Jim Ludtka Sporting Goods has proudly serviced Buffalo, the surrounding Western New York area, and, more recently, national markets since 1971. It has always been our top priority to provide quality merchandise and excellent customer service. BSN Sports is a prominent leader in our industry and will continue to support our schools, teams, leagues, and organizations with excellent service and extensive brand options.”