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                                  EXHIBIT 99.1

PRESS RELEASE

ESCALADE ANNOUNCES 2 for 1 COMMON STOCK SPLIT

Wabash, IN (April 27, 2004). Escalade, Incorporated (NASDAQ: ESCA) announced
that its Board of Directors approved a two-for-one split on Escalade common
stock. As a result of the stock split, shareholders will receive one additional
common share for every share held on the record date of May 11, 2004.

"The recent rise in the value of Escalade common stock attests to investor
confidence in the company's long-term growth opportunities and financial
strength. The Board shares this confidence, believing the company's strategic
market position and strong management team will continue to produce positive
results. Based on a desire to make the stock more accessible to a broader range
of investors, the Board decided to again split the stock," said Robert Griffin,
Chairman of the Board.

Upon completion of the split, the number of common shares outstanding will be
approximately 13 million. The additional shares will be mailed or delivered on
or about May 25, 2004, by the company's transfer agent, Integra Bank. The
Company's last stock split was a three-for-one split in March 2002.

"We believe that this split, combined with the annual dividend paid
earlier this year, make Escalade stock even more attractive to a broader range
of investors. We see enormous potential for growth, and remain committed to
attracting investors who share this enthusiasm and take a long-term view of the
company's growth opportunities," Griffin said.

Escalade is a quality manufacturer and marketer of sporting goods and
office/graphic arts products sold worldwide. To obtain more information on the
Company and its products, visit our website at: www.EscaladeInc.com or contact
Terry Frandsen, Vice President and CFO at 260/569-7208 or C.W. (Bill) Reed,
President and CEO at 260/569-7233