Northport to host HBCU baseball + softball tournaments through 2028
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Northport’s newly-renovated River Run Park has been awarded its first big tournament since re-opening earlier this month.
The Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) has announced that Visit Tuscaloosa and the City of Northport have been awarded the winning bid to host the conference’s Baseball and Softball Championships for the next three years, through 2028.
Both championships will take place at the newly constructed River Run Park in the City of Northport.
“The significance of the City of Northport landing the HBCU Athletic Conference Softball and Baseball Championships at the newly opened River Run Park is far-reaching from an economic, cultural, and community perspective. Hosting these baseball & softball championships offers economic benefits and boosts community pride. Additionally, they will showcase our city and this state-of-the-art sports complex, and impact our local businesses, hospitality industry, and provide tournaments where young people can see themselves as future student athletes.”
Christy Bobo, Council President, City of Northport
HBCU Athletic Conference
The HBCU Athletic Conference, formerly known as the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference, is made up entirely of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and is affiliated with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
There are currently 16 members of the conference across eight different states including Alabama. Stillman College, Talladega College and Oakwood University are the three in-state schools.
“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. 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.”
Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes, HBCUAC Commissioner
In addition to the games, each championship includes a welcome reception hosted by Visit Tuscaloosa, offering student-athletes, coaches, and fans an opportunity to experience the city’s renowned hospitality. Ticket information for both championships will be announced at a later date.
The HBCUAC Baseball and Softball Championships at River Run Park hopes to highlight elite competition, community engagement and the growing presence of HBCU Athletic Conference on a national level.
“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. From our state-of-the-art facilities at River Run Park to the vibrant energy of our entire area, we look forward to hosting student-athletes, coaches, and fans for an unforgettable championship experience.”
Kelsey Rush, President and CEO of Visit Tuscaloosa
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