Alabama State University Athletics is part of a proud tradition that began with the institution’s founding in 1867. Since then, Alabama State University (ASU) has stood as a beacon of resilience, excellence, and opportunity for more than 150 years. Born from the vision and determination of nine formerly enslaved men known as the Marion Nine, ASU began as the Lincoln Normal School in Marion, Alabama, with a commitment to providing educational opportunity to Black Alabamians. That legacy of perseverance, progress and promise continues to define the University today.
An important part of the expansion of that legacy is the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, where the spirit of the University comes to life through competition, achievement, leadership and service. ASU Athletics is an extension of the University’s mission to develop students intellectually, personally and professionally while preparing them to become leaders on the field, in the classroom and throughout their communities.
The Alabama State Hornets compete at the highest levels of collegiate athletics, offering opportunities for student-athletes across a broad range of sports, including football, men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, tennis, golf, bowling, cross country, track and field, and other competitive sports. Through its comprehensive athletics program, ASU provides student-athletes with the resources, coaching, support and experiences necessary to pursue excellence while earning college degrees.
What distinguishes Alabama State University Athletics is its connection to the University’s enduring identity as an HBCU. The Hornets compete with the understanding that every game, meet and championship represents something larger than the scoreboards. Student-athletes carry the legacy of the Marion Nine and generations of Hornets who came before them, representing a University whose history was built by individuals who refused to accept limitations placed before them.
That tradition continues through a culture centered on academic achievement, athletic excellence, character, leadership and service. The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics works to ensure that student-athletes have an experience that extends beyond competition—one that prepares them for success after graduation and reinforces their responsibility as ambassadors of Alabama State University.
Just as importantly, Alabama State University Athletics recognizes that its responsibility extends beyond the campus and competition venues. As part of the University’s CommUniversity mandate, athletes regularly participate in community outreach programs, youth engagement and service opportunities, utilizing the influence and visibility of Hornet Athletics to build meaningful connections throughout Montgomery and communities across the state. These efforts provide opportunities for student-athletes, coaches and athletics staff to give back, mentor young people and demonstrate the values of teamwork, discipline, leadership and perseverance.
Summer sports camps are another important aspect of the department’s community commitment. Designed to introduce young athletes to the fundamentals of various sports while promoting healthy competition, teamwork and personal development, ASU’s sports camps provide youth with the opportunity to learn directly from Hornet coaches and student-athletes. Beyond athletic instruction, these experiences allow young participants to see Alabama State University as a place where their talents, education and aspirations can grow. In this way, athletics becomes a pathway for connecting the University with the next generation of Hornets and future college students.
Looking toward the future, Alabama State Athletics is positioned to build upon its proud tradition while embracing innovation, strategic growth and a renewed commitment to the total student-athlete experience. Under the leadership of the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, the University continues to invest in programs, people, facilities and opportunities that strengthen competitive performance while advancing student success.
From the classroom to the playing field, from championship competition to community service, Alabama State Athletics embodies the University’s enduring commitment to excellence and opportunity.
To learn more about Alabama State University Athletics, visit bamastatesports.com.
Alabama State University
915 S. Jackson Street
Montgomery, AL 36106