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hbcu invitational
Welcome to the pinnacle of collegiate excellence and fierce competition: the HBCU Invitational – a groundbreaking event that marks the dawn of a new era.WHERE TALENT MEETS TRADITION
As the inaugural tournament of its kind, the HBCU Invitational stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit, determination, and brilliance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the realm of athletics.Prepare to be captivated by the sheer passion and dedication that each team brings to the competition. From the thunderous roars of the crowd to the heart-pounding action on the field, court, and track, the HBCU Invitational promises an unforgettable experience for athletes, spectators, and supporters alike.
OUR WHY
Softball is our unwavering passion, and our commitment lies in nurturing the future of student-athletes. HBCU softball programs offer a vital platform, enabling black student-athletes to not only excel at a competitive level but also to advance their education.
Our aspiration is to shine a brighter spotlight on HBCU softball programs, celebrating their exceptional coaching, the incredible talent of their athletes, and the fierce competitiveness they bring to the game. We dream of inspiring young, emerging student-athletes to recognize that the choice of a college or university goes beyond the sport itself. Joining a program where fellow athletes share similar backgrounds and experiences proves invaluable for those seeking success both in their sport and in life.
Our vision is to ensure the longevity of this softball event, transforming it into a premier collegiate tournament that captures the attention of the softball community and a wide audience every February. It is worth noting that this coincides with Black History Month, adding a meaningful layer of significance to our endeavor.ABOUT HBCUS
Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) began to spread throughout the South and East after the Civil War. They turned to sports as a means to develop leaders and to join a growing trend throughout higher education in the mid-to-late 1800s: the widespread inclusion of sports teams on college campuses.
These new sporting spaces contributed to the creation of distinctive African American cultural traditions, such as step shows and dazzling marching band formations. Even though African Americans began to integrate northern colleges and universities in the early 1900s, HBCUs offered the best opportunities for African American scholar-athletes. In these spaces, African American athletes could compete without facing the challenges of black student-athletes at many predominantly white universities: intentional attempts to injure them, positional segregation, and racial discrimination. 
THE HISTORY
Since the early 1900s, long before Title IX opened sports opportunities for all women, many HBCUs accepted women as athletes. This support helped to nurture the athletic and professional careers of countless African American women. In return, these athletes were expected to help challenge racial exclusion throughout society.
The Tuskegee Institute Tigerettes and the Tennessee State University Tigerbelles helped establish the mid-20th century domination of African American women in track and field. These two Historically Black Colleges and Universities produced many athletes who excelled in Amateur Athletic Union and Olympic track events. In addition to their athletic success, these programs used the achievements of their athletes to challenge racial discrimination and demonstrate feminine ideals, which countered racist stereotypes.