Reader's Say 'Play Ball' at Nutley, Newark stores

Spring sports season is here, and you picked your favorite places to pick up that bat, glove, lacrosse stick or soccer ball in the Nutley-Belleville and Newark area.

Mainero’s Sporting Goods in Nutley garnered the most votes, while Modell’s Sporting Goods in Newark was a solid second.

For Nick Mainiero, owner of Mainero’s on Franklin Avenue in Nutley, the store’s success over five decades has been all about pleasing shoppers.

“Our personalized service sets us apart,” he said. “We go above and beyond to satisfy our customers, and we specialize in personalized service.”

The store has catered to local, youth and school sports since first opening in 1978, helping teams and leagues, including embroidering and screen printing for sports uniforms, Mainiero said.

The Modell’s at 141 Market St. in Newark offers the wide variety and strong customer service that for which the well-known sports equipment giant has been known.

Modell's Sporting Goods is America's oldest, family-owned and operated retailer of sporting goods, athletic footwear, active apparel and fan gear, committed to providing a convenient and compelling shopping experience for the athlete and fan, according the store’s official website.

So thanks for taking time to vote for your favorite sporting goods store. Stay tuned for our next “Best of” poll, beginning Monday morning. Until then, get out and play!