SEATTLE (February 18, 2025)—Baseball Beyond Borders will host its first annual weekend series, the HBCU Seattle Series, between Coppin State University, a historically Black College and University (HBCU) based in Baltimore, Maryland and Seattle University. The three-game series, from March 14-16, will be played at Bannerwood Park, home of the Seattle University Redhawks.
The series aims to highlight baseball and softball programs at HBCUs, provide an opportunity to expose local student-athletes, their families, and communities to the HBCU experience and, in partnership with Seattle University, expand access to baseball, softball, and academic opportunities for youth of color.
“We are so excited to be making our first-ever trip to the Great Northwest as an HBCU Baseball Program. We have had a lot of recent success with top players from areas like Olympia, Bothell, and Shoreline playing for Coppin State,” said Coach Sherman Reed, Head Baseball Coach for Coppin State University. “Our first-ever freshman All-American, Derek Lohr, starred for us in 2018 and was from Bothell, so we know that great talent exists in the state. This trip also helps reward current player Indy Anderson to get the chance to perform in front of family and friends. We know that Coach Donny Harrel will have his team ready to go, and we expect some good early-season baseball.”
“The HBCU Seattle Series is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and connection,” said Bookie Gates, Founder of Baseball Beyond Borders. “We are excited to partner with Seattle University to bring this monumental event to our city and spotlight the incredible talent and legacy of HBCU programs.
Baseball Beyond Borders will celebrate the commencement of the series with Take Me Out to the Quad, an event in partnership with the RieImagine, Métier Brewing Co., and the Seattle Mariners on Thursday, March 13, at Victory Hall. The event features Vibe Bingo, a menu of beer-infused selections, and a vendor market featuring Black and women-owned businesses. Throughout the weekend, fans can expect a yard-like experience at Bannerwood Park with live DJs, Black-owned food trucks, activations in collaboration with HBCU alum associations and historically Black fraternities and sororities, and more.
“Led by the Mariners Care Foundation, we are pleased to partner with Baseball Beyond Borders, Seattle U., and Coppin State to host players, fans, and the community at Victory Hall on March 13 to celebrate the HBCU Seattle Series,” said Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Trevor Gooby. “One of our proudest moments at the 2023 All-Star Game was the inaugural HBCU Classic, and we are thrilled to continue to support HBCU athletes, alumni, and prospective students by playing a small role in this great event.”
The first pitch is slated for 3:00 pm on Friday, March 14, followed by game two on Saturday, March 15 at 2:00 pm, and game three on Sunday, March 15 at 12:00 pm. All games will be played at Bannerwood Park in Bellevue, WA. Series tickets are available for purchase through Seattle University, and tickets to Take Me Out to the Quad Vibe Bingo start at $35. Visit baseballbeyond.org to learn more about the HBCU Seattle Series, Take Me Out to the Quad, and ways to support Baseball Beyond Borders.
About Baseball Beyond Borders
Founded in 2014, Baseball Beyond Borders strives to address the social and economic impact of youth and baseball/softball. We are a sports-based community development organization that promotes lifelong learning using the sport as a framework. Our model extends beyond the foul lines and includes a curriculum, Moving Beyond 12, that assists student-athletes and their families to navigate the college access process and prepare them for life after the 12th grade. www.baseballbeyond.org
About Coppin State University
Since 1900, Coppin State University has been inspiring students from Maryland and beyond to achieve greatness in and out of the classroom. With a proud history, colorful traditions and deep community roots, Coppin State students and faculty are spreading Coppin pride far and wide, giving back to surrounding Baltimore communities, winning prestigious awards, and much more. www.coppin.edu
About Seattle University
Seattle University, founded in 1891, is a Jesuit, Catholic university located on 55 acres at the intersection of Seattle’s thriving Capitol Hill and First Hill neighborhoods—in the heart of one of the most innovative cities in the world. Nearly 7,200 students are enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs across more than 120 programs. www.seattleu.edu