Howard College Celebrates New Softball Field House with Ribbon Cutting

Howard College celebrated another milestone Tuesday afternoon with a ribbon cutting for the new softball field house, bringing together college leaders, former coaches, community members and supporters of the Hawk Softball program.

Howard College President Dr. Cheryl Sparks welcomed those in attendance and reflected on the legacy of Howard College Softball and the people who have helped build the program through the years.

That history was represented in a special way as former Howard College softball coaches Andy Mace, Kelly Raines, and the family of A.C. “Cotton” Mize returned to campus to join in the celebration and see the program’s newest facility.

The ribbon cutting was organized by Debbye ValVerde of the Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce. Following the ceremony, guests were invited to walk through the new field house, tour the facility and enjoy refreshments provided by Howard College.

The celebration also recognized individuals whose contributions have left a lasting mark on Howard College. Tables located outside the new field house will feature plaques honoring Founding Coach of Howard College Softball, Andy Mace, Interim Softball Coach, A.C. “Cotton” Mize, and Head Softball Coach, Kelly Raines, ensuring their legacies remain part of the facility and the future of Hawk Softball.

The ribbon cutting was held as Howard College continues celebrating its 80th anniversary, making the afternoon both a celebration of something new and a recognition of the people and traditions that helped bring the college to where it is today.

As the doors to the new field house opened, the occasion served as a reminder that while Howard College Softball continues to grow, the legacy built by those who came before remains an important part of its future.