COUNTDOWN TO THE 2nd ANNUAL HBCU SWINGMAN CLASSIC
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Posted By: Catalina Deossa on July 03, 2024 The HBCU Swingman Classic, a key event during MLB's All-Star Week, celebrates the baseball talent from Division-I Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Organized by Del Matthews, MLB's vice president of baseball development and an HBCU alumnus, the event pays homage to the spirit and legacy of the Negro Leagues. Each year, the Classic brings together the top 50 college baseball players from DI HBCUs, selected by a committee that includes notable figures such as Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., alongside representatives from MLB and MLBPA. These athletes not only showcase their baseball skills but also embody the rich cultural heritage and competitive spirit synonymous with HBCU baseball. Managed by distinguished baseball figures like Ken Griffey Sr. and Lloyd McClendon, with coaching staffs featuring former MLB players who are also HBCU alumni, the event encompasses more than just on-field competition. It includes a variety of cultural festivities, such as a Battle of the Bands featuring Texas Southern’s "Ocean of Soul" and Prairie View A&M's "Marching Storm," and musical performances by Grammy-winning artist Kirk Franklin. Beyond its role as a showcase for athletic talent, the Swingman Classic serves as a platform for promoting diversity and inclusion within baseball. It underscores the capabilities of HBCU athletes and highlights the potential they possess when given equal opportunities in the sport and beyond. Through its blend of sportsmanship, cultural celebration, and advocacy, the HBCU Swingman Classic continues to grow in significance, representing both a premier sporting event and a symbol of progress and recognition within the baseball community. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Catalina Deossa
Archaeologist, CHRONOS SAS Florida Int`l Univ class of 2011 Member Since April 2024 |
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