Albany, GA — Albany State University (ASU) is proud to announce that its baseball and softball programs have been selected as recipients of the 2025
Homers for Hank Together with Truist initiative. This prestigious program, supported by the Atlanta Braves and Truist through the Henry Louis Aaron Fund, invests in Historically Black College and University (HBCU) baseball and softball programs across Braves Country.
Through this grant, ASU's baseball and softball teams will receive arena-style batting cages, field improvements, new uniforms, and upgraded equipment/technology. These enhancements are expected to be completed by the fall, providing both programs with improved facilities ahead of their upcoming seasons.
Director of Athletics, Dr. Kristene Kelly, said:
"This support is a game-changer for our student-athletes. These upgrades will give our teams the tools they need to train, compete, and represent ASU with pride. We are grateful to the Atlanta Braves, Truist, and the Henry Louis Aaron Fund for investing in our programs."
Head Baseball Coach Scot Hemmings shared his enthusiasm:
"Our program has always prided itself on hard work and maximizing what we have. These batting cages and field improvements will allow our players to prepare in ways we've only dreamed of. We can't wait to see the difference this makes on game day."
Head Softball Coach Jason Bryant added:
"This investment sends a powerful message to our student-athletes — that their efforts on and off the field are valued. The new equipment and uniforms will support our performance and reflect the pride we take in representing Albany State."
The
Homers for Hank Together with Truist initiative was established in 2021 to honor the legacy of baseball legend Hank Aaron by creating opportunities for diverse scholar-athletes. For every home run hit by the Atlanta Braves, Truist donates $755 to the Henry Louis Aaron Fund, fulfilling a $1 million commitment over five years. Albany State joins a distinguished list of HBCUs that have benefited from the program's investment in growing the game of baseball and softball in meaningful ways.
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ABOUT ALBANY STATE ATHLETICS
Albany State University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II-level intercollegiate athletic program. The university currently fields teams in 11 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's track and field, women's soccer, baseball, and football with all teams compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), except women's soccer, which participates in the Peach Belt Conference.