Decatur, Ala. — Decatur Morgan County Tourism has won the bid to host the 2025 HBCUAC Softball Championship, the conference announced Thursday.
The event, scheduled for April 25-28, will mark a milestone for Decatur as the first city to host the HBCUAC Softball Championship.
“We are thrilled and honored to host the HBCUAC Softball Tournament,” said Danielle Gibson, president and CEO of DMCT. “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our community and our passion for softball. We look forward to welcoming teams and fans for an unforgettable experience filled with competitive spirit and camaraderie.”
Decatur, known for its support of collegiate athletics, is set to host teams from Dillard University, Oakwood University, Rust College, Stillman College, Talladega College, and Voorhees University during the championship.
“Decatur is honored to serve as the inaugural host of the HBCUAC Softball Championship,” said Don Dukemineer, director of sports development at DMCT. “We are committed to providing a quality experience for the student-athletes both on and off the field. We look forward to the excitement of crowning the first softball champion here in Decatur-Morgan County.”
The relationship between DMCT and the HBCUAC has been growing. Last fall, Decatur hosted the conference’s Cross-Country Championship. The addition of the softball championship reflects a strengthening partnership.
“Hosting the HBCUAC Softball Championship is a continuation of our commitment to supporting the conference,” Dukemineer added. “With this new multi-year agreement, we are excited to showcase our welcoming spirit and prove why Decatur is the perfect fit for the HBCUAC.”
HBCUAC Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes echoed the excitement. “We are delighted to bring the HBCUAC Softball Championship to Decatur. The city’s dedication to providing a top-notch experience for our student-athletes and fans is commendable. We look forward to an unforgettable championship that will set the standard for future events.”
According to local tourism officials, hosting such events has had a positive economic impact on Decatur.