Despite forecasts of a ferocious downpour and blustery winds, the Feb. 23 game organized by Sac State students Donte and Dominic Morris to honor Negro Leaguers was a rousing success.
Spectators at McAuliffe Field were treated to a spirited game between teams representing the recreational league formed by the Morris twins. Their 1930s-style uniforms were purchased by the President’s Office.
The game was a tribute to African-American athletes in times past who played with a passion despite the fact that they were denied the opportunity to participate in the national past time.
Frank Williams, one of the honored guests, played with the Kansas City Monarchs and represented his team in the league’s final all-star game in 1960. Both Williams and Jethro McIntyre, who played ball in the Montreal Expos farm system, were feted during pregame ceremonies by President Alexander Gonzalez, who presented them with replicas of Negro League uniforms.
After commending the Negro League’s storied history, Gonzalez also praised the nearly two dozen Sacramento State students who had worked so hard to organize events for Black History Month, noting that their efforts epitomize what makes the University a special place.
About the writer:
Sacramento State’s Alan Miller can be reached at amiller@csus.edu
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