CHICAGO, IL- March 28, 2006 - Wilson Sporting Goods and the NFL have announced the return of "The Duke", the first re-branding of the league's official football since 1969. Effective May 1, 2006, the "Official NFL Game Ball" will become "The Duke" in honor of football legend Wellington "Duke" Mara. Mara, who passed away last October at the age of 89, dedicated 81 years to the New York Giants as an administrator, owner and unwavering booster.