DECATUR-Decatur, Alabama is set to make history as the first city to host the prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUAC) Softball Championship. The tournament will take place from April 25–28, 2025, bringing together six HBCUsfor an exciting showcase of talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
“We are so excited to be back in Decatur for another championship,” said HBCUAC Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes. “The Decatur Morgan County Tourism team has been an incredibly supportive and resourceful partner, and we are thrilled to host another championship with them. With this being our first year having a softball championship, it was critical to have a host that understands our goals and mission. Having DCMT host was an easy fit, as they also host our cross country championship and are well aware of our vision for first-class events.”
The 2025 HBCUAC Softball Championship will feature fierce competition from six outstanding programs: Dillard University, Oakwood University, Rust College, Stillman College, Talladega College, and Voorhees University. Among the teams, Stillman College has emerged as the preseason favorite to claim the championship title. Additionally, standout player Lauren Haskins of Stillman College has been named the 2025 Preseason Hitter of the Year, and Oakwood University’s Sydney Arnett was named the 2025 Preseason Pitcher of the Year, setting the stage for an electrifying tournament.
Other top players to watch include Apryl Davis of Voorhees University, Trenity Okedele of Dillard University, and Ayanna Williams of Rust College, all of whom earned selections to the Preseason All-HBCUAC Second Team.
Fans across the nation can catch all the action as the Urban Edge Network broadcasts the championship, providing an opportunity to witness the best in HBCU softball. For updates and additional information, fans can visit hbcuac.org.
Danielle Gibson, President/CEO of Decatur Morgan County Tourism, expressed excitement about hosting the tournament, stating, “We are thrilled and honored to have been chosen to host the HBCUAC Softball Championship. This is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase Decatur as a city, its facilities and our love for softball.”
Decatur has a longstanding tradition of supporting collegiate athletics, and hosting the HBCUAC Softball Championship further solidifies its reputation as a premier destination for sports tourism. With free admission, fans are encouraged to come out, celebrate these talented student-athletes, and be part of an event that inspires the next generation of players while creating lasting memories.
Media Release/Danielle Gibson, President & CEO/Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Inc.
