The Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) has awarded Visit Tuscaloosa and the city of Northport a three-year bid to host its baseball and softball championships through 2028.
Both tournaments will be played at River Run Park, a newly constructed facility in Northport.
The announcement was made Monday during a press conference at River Run Park, where attendees included HBCUAC Commissioner Kiki Baker Barnes, Visit Tuscaloosa President and CEO Kelsey Rush, and Northport City Council Pro Tempore Woodrow Washington. The Stillman College drumline performed a commissioned piece by faculty member Eddie Fraction to mark the occasion.
“The opportunity to bring 16 teams to our baseball and softball championships in Northport for the next three years is a win for our student-athletes, fans and the entire conference,” Barnes said. “River Run Park will provide a premier stage for competition, and Visit Tuscaloosa’s commitment to creating an exceptional experience will make these championships memorable for years to come.”
Rush said the event would showcase the area’s new sports complex and hospitality.
“We are thrilled to welcome the HBCUAC back to Tuscaloosa and to showcase all our community has to offer, including this brand new sports complex in Northport,” Rush said.
Northport City Council President Christy Bobo said the championships would bring economic and cultural benefits.
“Hosting these baseball and softball championships offers economic benefits and boosts community pride,” Bobo said. “They will showcase our city and this state-of-the-art sports complex and impact our local businesses and hospitality industry, while providing tournaments where young people can see themselves as future student-athletes.”
Each championship will also include a welcome reception hosted by Visit Tuscaloosa. Ticket information will be announced at a later date.
