As a new move the NCAA has pushed back the season to begin February 22nd. This being done to better accommodate the northern schools and help them put out a more competitive team. I really don’t think it will make a difference. It’s still very cold north of the Mason-Dixon Line in mid-February and the snow will continue to fall for another month in much of that area.

As most of you probably already know David Crane, the voice of Alabama Baseball for several years, was offered an opportunity to further his career by moving to UAB with primary responsibility as voice of their football program. The good news is that Chris Stewart, the other half of the broadcast team will remain. David’s replacement has not been named yet, but I’m sure an excellent choice will be made.

Another change that directly affects the Alabama Baseball program is the hiring of Rick Burleson. Rick replaced Daniel Hopper as the Marketing Director for Baseball. As the season gets closer I’ll pass on some of his plans, but you will see improvements in the promotion of Alabama Baseball.

We are working to make our Annual Preseason BBQ/Fan Day more special. The details have not been confirmed yet, so I don’t want to give out too much information. But our plans are to hold the event on Saturday February 16th. That morning the staff and team will conduct a free “Kids Clinic”, we will have our BBQ around noon at the Coliseum, and then afterwards the team will have a full scrimmage. In the next couple of weeks I will be able to let you know more details. But again, please keep Saturday February 16th open.

Hopefully you have ordered your season tickets, if not you can probably still call the ticket office and get it done, but don’t wait too long. Tickets will probably go out late-January.

We are beginning a new year so it is time to renew your membership. Many of you have already sent in your renewals and we thank you.

Thanks for your support.

Ron Hughston