The HBU Huskies baseball team has been a staple of collegiate athletics in the state of Texas for over three decades. With a rich history of success on the field and a commitment to developing student-athletes, the Huskies have become a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division I.
Early Years and Conference Affiliations
Houston Baptist University, founded in 1960, began its baseball program in 1966. The team competed as an independent institution until 1986 when it joined the Trans America Athletic Conference (TAAC). In 2001, the Huskies moved to the Atlantic Sun Conference (A-Sun) before becoming a member of the Southland Conference in 2013.
Success on the Field
Throughout its history, the HBU Huskies baseball team has experienced its fair share of successes. The team has won several conference championships, including three TAAC titles and two A-Sun crowns. In 2015, the Huskies claimed their first Southland Conference Tournament championship, defeating the McNeese State Cowboys in the title game.
Notable Players and Coaches
Several notable players have donned the Huskies uniform over the years, including Major League Baseball (MLB) players such as Heath McCormick, Kevin Roberts, and Tyler Pritchard. McCormick, a pitcher, was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 2000, while Roberts, an outfielder, was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2002. Pritchard, a catcher, was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2014.
As for coaches, the Huskies have had several successful leaders at the helm. Jared Moon, who coached the team from 2004 to 2013, led the Huskies to their first A-Sun championship in 2008. Current head coach, Jared Moon's successor, Lance Berkman, has continued the program's success, guiding the team to a Southland Conference regular-season title in 2019.
Facilities and Upgrades
The HBU Huskies baseball team calls Husky Field home, a state-of-the-art facility located on the university's campus. The stadium features a seating capacity of over 1,000, a natural grass playing surface, and a renovated press box.
In recent years, the university has invested in upgrading the facility, including the installation of a new video scoreboard and improvements to the dugouts and concourse areas.
Community Involvement and Outreach
The HBU Huskies baseball team is committed to giving back to the local community. The team regularly participates in charity events, including the annual "Baseball for a Cure" game, which raises awareness and funds for cancer research.
Additionally, the team offers baseball camps and clinics for youth players in the Houston area, providing instruction and mentorship from experienced coaches and players.
Current Roster and Schedule
The 2022 HBU Huskies baseball roster features a talented mix of returning players and newcomers. The team is led by senior outfielder, Jake Madden, who was named to the 2022 Preseason All-Southland Conference team.
The Huskies' schedule includes matchups against several top-ranked opponents, including the University of Houston, Rice University, and the University of Texas.
Recruiting and Scholarships
The HBU Huskies baseball team offers a range of scholarships to qualified student-athletes. The team's coaching staff actively recruits top talent from across the country, seeking players who excel both on the field and in the classroom.
Championship History
The HBU Huskies baseball team has a rich championship history, including:
- 3 TAAC Conference Championships (1986, 1988, 1990)
- 2 A-Sun Conference Championships (2008, 2012)
- 1 Southland Conference Tournament Championship (2015)
Fan Engagement and Social Media
The HBU Huskies baseball team is active on social media, with a strong presence on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Fans can follow the team for updates, news, and behind-the-scenes insights into the program.
Gallery of HBU Huskies Baseball
FAQs
What is the HBU Huskies baseball team's conference affiliation?
+The HBU Huskies baseball team is a member of the Southland Conference.
Where is the HBU Huskies baseball team's home stadium located?
+The HBU Huskies baseball team plays its home games at Husky Field, located on the university's campus in Houston, Texas.
How can I follow the HBU Huskies baseball team on social media?
+The HBU Huskies baseball team is active on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Fans can follow the team for updates, news, and behind-the-scenes insights into the program.
As the HBU Huskies baseball team continues to grow and succeed, fans can expect exciting matchups, talented players, and a commitment to excellence on and off the field.