NFHS, BATS-TOI Partner on Wrestling Headgear

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA (October 13, 2025) — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) announced a new three-year partnership making BATS-TOI the “Official Wrestling Headgear Partner of the NFHS.”

“This partnership underscores the NFHS’ commitment to risk minimization while enhancing performance by providing schools with access to high-quality, innovative wrestling headgear,” the release from NFHS said.

“Protecting student-athletes is at the heart of the NFHS’ mission,” said Dr. Karissa Niehoff, NFHS CEO. “BATS-TOI’s dedication to advancing head protection aligns perfectly with our goal of keeping wrestling safe, competitive and accessible to high schools across the country.”

BATS-TOI is a Brooklyn-based company specializing in advanced head protection solutions. Its new model, The Mercado V, has been engineered as a next-generation headgear using a combination of AI and computational design that is durable and comfortable, providing versatile head protection for wrestling and other contact sports. The Mercado is made in the USA and has become a trusted choice for athletes and coaches seeking superior headgear, according to the release.

“We are proud to be a partner and collaborate with the NFHS on a shared commitment to head safety for athletes,” said Mario Mercado, BATS-TOI founder and CEO. “Our mission at BATS-TOI is to enhance athlete safety and performance by developing and producing cutting-edge and innovative sports technologies and products. We are equally proud to manufacture The Mercado in America.”

Through this three-year collaboration, schools will have access to BATS-TOI educational resources focused on proper headgear use, fitting and best practices.