RANDOLPH ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF BASEBALL IN FALL 2026

Randolph, VT — Vermont State University–Randolph (formerly Vermont Tech) is proud to announce that baseball will officially return in Fall 2026, marking the revival of one of the institution's most historically successful athletic programs.

Athletic Director Jamal Hughes emphasized both the legacy of the program and the significance of its return:

"Baseball has a rich history here. More than 20 conference championships, and legendary coaches like Austin Wood and Ted Shipley put VTSU Randolph on a national stage within its divisions. I think our athletic program has taken the necessary strides to finally bring back what was arguably one of our most successful programs."

This announcement comes more than a decade after baseball—along with softball and golf—was placed on hiatus for the 2012–13 academic year. At that time, the Athletic Department stated it would be "working on a comprehensive plan that will result in sustainable athletic programs that wholly support the overall strategic plan of the college." Former Athletic Director Jennifer Norton-Magnan acknowledged the challenge in 2012 but expressed optimism about long-term athletics growth:

"Although we are disappointed with not being able to offer these three sports to the student-athletes over the coming year, we look forward to strengthening our current programs and creating a long-term plan for Athletics at Vermont Tech."

Hughes noted that the current return is the result of those long-term efforts finally coming to fruition. Investment in student experience, and competitive program development has positioned VTSU Randolph to sustainably reintroduce baseball with confidence and strategic purpose. It's about driving enrollment. Baseball is one of those key sports that we believe has the ability to make a difference in our recruiting efforts not only as an athletic department, but a campus.