New Baseball Series Spotlighting HBCUs in Bellevue

Bannerwood Sports Park offers an accessible tournament-quality lighted baseball stadium with concessions, viewing stands, and restrooms across its 12.65 acres in Bellevue, Washington. Home to the Seattle University Redhawks baseball team, the park will play host to Baseball Beyond Borders' inaugural HBCU Seattle Series. The three-game series will be played between Coppin State University, a historically Black college and university (HBCU), and Seattle University from March 14th to 16th. 

The series spotlights student-athlete programs at HBCUs and expands access to sports and academic opportunities for youths of color. 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.

“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.

Take Me Out to the Quad Event

On the eve of the series, Thursday, March 13, Baseball Beyond Borders is celebrating with a Take Me Out to the Quad event at Victory Hall in Seattle. Created in partnership with the RieImagine, Métier Brewing Co., and the Seattle Mariners, the event features bingo, beer, and Black and women-owned businesses. There will be live DJs, Black-owned food trucks, 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.”

Ticket Information

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