arts & entertainment

Major League Baseball and the Jackie Robinson Training Complex (JRTC) host the 18th iteration of the Andre Dawson Classic, an annual Division-I collegiate baseball event showcasing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This year’s Classic features exciting matchups, community outreach programs, and special activations highlighting youth, education, and local engagement.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH HIGHLIGHTS:

Dodgertown Elementary School Field Trip

Friday, February 20

• A group of 3rd–5th grade students from Dodgertown Elementary School will tour the JRTC behind the scenes.
• Students will enjoy a ballpark lunch and attend the Texas Southern vs. Jackson State game at 11:00 AM. Game tickets and lunch are sponsored by the Treasure Coast Sports Foundation.
• First Pitch: Thrown by Dodgertown Elementary School’s Principal, caught by Ryan Strickland of the Treasure Coast Sports Foundation.

HBCU Community Partnerships & Florida A&M University (FAMU) Marching 100 Band

Saturday, February 21

• Opportunities to engage with the HBCU community, including Divine Nine fraternities and sororities, alumni associations, and local organizations such as:
  • Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Eta Eta Omega Chapter
  • Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Lambda Beta Zeta Chapter
  • Omicron Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi, Inc.
  • Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Delta Lambda Sigma Chapter
  • Eta Kappa Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
  • St. Lucie – Treasure Coast Chapter of FAMU National Alumni Association
• Pre-Game Ceremonies before Bethune-Cookman vs. FAMU @ 8:00 PM:
  • FAMU Marching 100 Band: live performance beginning at approximately 7:30 PM
  • Special Presentation: Baseball Hall of Famer Andre Dawson will present a donation to Special Olympics Florida during a special pre-game presentation.
  • Ceremonial First Pitch: Thrown by Andre Dawson, caught by a Special Olympics athlete.

Little League Parade

Sunday, February 22

• Local youth baseball teams from Indian River County leagues including Vero Beach, Sebastian, and Gifford will participate in an on-field parade prior to the Florida A&M vs. Southern game at 12:00 PM celebrating teamwork, community, and the sport of baseball.  Parade to begin at approximately 11:30 AM.
• Free activities for kids with a ticket to the 12:00 PM game will be available, including facepainting, lawn games, and more.

FEATURED GAME SCHEDULE:

• Friday, February 20 | 11:00 AM – Texas Southern vs. Jackson StateDodgertown Elementary School Field Trip (Facility Tour & Game)
• Saturday, February 21| Games to be broadcasted live on MLB NetworkHBCU Community Engagement featuring*FAMU Marching 100 band performance
  • 4:00 PM – Yale vs. Jackson State
  • 8:00 PM – Bethune-Cookman vs. FAMU*
• Sunday, February 22 | 12:00 PM – FAMU vs. SouthernLocal Little League Parade

WHERE: Jackie Robinson Training Complex – Holman Stadium, 3901 26th St, Vero Beach, FL

WHY: The Andre Dawson Classic presented by Major League Baseball is more than a collegiate baseball tournament. It is an opportunity to:

• Inspire youth through baseball and educational activities
• Celebrate HBCU athletics and culture
• Highlight community partnerships that strengthen mentorship, engagement, and learning in Indian River County and beyond