First Pitch

 

The First Pitch Fundraising Banquet, now in its 10th year, is one of the most prestigious fundraising events in our UCM community and serves as an opportunity to celebrate the storied tradition of Mules Baseball. Through the fundraising banquet, Mules Baseball has raised over $539,618 for equipment needs, expanded the student-athlete experience, supplemented the operational budget and implemented facility improvements, such as the $2.1 million Mules Baseball Clubhouse at James R. Crane Stadium. 

Join us on Saturday, March 28, for a day of baseball in Warrensburg, MO! This is a powerful gathering of Mules Baseball alumni and community leaders who come together to support Mules Baseball, induct former players into the Diamond Club, and positively impact the current generation of players. The banquet will include fundraising games, dinner, drinks, a silent auction, and recognition.

The First Pitch Fundraising Banquet Planning Committee is happy to announce former Kansas City Royals left-fielder Alex Gordon as this year's keynote speaker.  Gordon is a former Major League outfielder who spent his entire 14-year career with the Kansas City Royals. A three-time All-Star and eight-time Gold Glove winner, he became one of the franchise’s most respected leaders and key contributors to the Royals’ 2015 World Series championship. Known for his elite defense, clutch moments, and loyalty to Kansas City, Gordon remains a beloved figure in Royals history. Gordon will be the fifth World Series champion to speak at this annual gathering of Mules Baseball alumni and community leaders who come together to positively impact current and future generations of players.

Proceeds from the 10th Annual First Pitch Banquet will ensure Central Missouri remains one the of the nation’s top NCAA Division II baseball programs.* We would be honored to have your support.

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Schedule

Optional Activites
Morning--Golf at Mules National Golf Club.  Reserve tee times here
10:00 a.m. Open practice at Crane Stadium

Banquet
5:00 p.m. Doors Open at Jerry M. Hughes Center 

• VIP Social and Meet and Greet with Alex Gordon (access included in specific sponsorship levels)
• Silent Auction Viewing
• Fundraising Games (bring cash or have Venmo ready)

7:00 p.m. Welcome Remarks
7:15 p.m. Dinner
7:45 p.m. Program, including Diamond Club induction and keynote speaker Alex Gordon

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Recognition

The Diamond Club recognizes former Mules Baseball players who positively impacted the Mules Baseball program. This year’s Diamond Club Honorees are:

• Will be announced early 2026

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Registration and Fundraising

The success of this event relies on corporate donors and partners, community members, and attendees. By sponsoring our fundraising banquet, companies and community members can show their commitment to Mules Baseball.  

 

 

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Questions and Additional Information

• General event and registration inquiries can be directed to Tiffany Cochran and Erick Vargas at events@ucmo.edu. 
• Silent auction or general donation inquiries can be directed to Macie Wallace at mwallace@ucmo.edu.
• The attire is business professional/cocktail.

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Planning Committee

Mules Baseball would like to thank its planning committee.  Without them, this event would not be possible.  The committe includes:

Eric Clark, ’03, Kyle Crookes (Head Coach), David Ezell, ’78, ’79, Alex Kent, ’11, ’14, Adam Maddox, ’12, Billy Maloney ‘16, ‘17, Stu Rogers, ’82, ’86, Rob Ruth, ’75, Brennan Van Breusegen, ’23, Carter Young, ’24.

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*Mules Baseball will receive 80% of the net proceeds and 20% will support the Cardinal and Black Fund, which supplements the UCM Athletics operational budget supporting all 550 student-athletes.