Portland, Oregon – Investment Announcement
Rule42 Sports Group has announced a significant investment in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) and has acquired Softball America, a leading source for softball news and rankings. These actions position Rule42 as a pivotal player in the growth of amateur and professional softball, amidst rising global interest in the sport.
Quote from Renée James
Renée James, founder and owner of Rule42 Sports Group, expressed enthusiasm for the current landscape of women’s softball, citing strong fan interest and unprecedented opportunities for athletes at all levels. “By investing in the AUSL and acquiring Softball America, we’re all-in on softball,” she stated.
AUSL Growth Highlights
Founded in 2025, the AUSL features premier professional softball talent. The recent second season saw a 152% increase in average ESPN viewership and 25 sellout games, including 11 out of 12 home games in Portland. Merchandise sales surged by 110% year-over-year and major new partners have joined, including adidas and Labcorp.
Investment Impact
Rule42 will become one of the AUSL’s largest investors, and Renée James will join its Board of Directors. The league is supported by Athletes Unlimited, Major League Baseball, the Milwaukee Brewers, and Ryan Sanders Baseball.
CEO’s Remarks
Jon Patricof, CEO of Athletes Unlimited, highlighted the significance of James’ involvement, recognizing her extensive business experience and passion for sports.
Acquisition of Softball America
The acquisition of Softball America, known for its comprehensive coverage of softball rankings and player evaluations, marks a major milestone for the community. Tara Henry, VP of Softball at Rule42, emphasized the commitment to further develop opportunities for athletes and elevate the sport’s visibility.
About Renée James
Renée James is also the founder and CEO of Rule42 Sports Technology Group, dedicated to modernizing athlete discovery. She is recognized for her leadership at Ampere and her tenure as former president of Intel Corporation.
