Merced College is inviting the campus community, alumni and supporters from throughout the Merced region to an Athletics Hall of Fame ceremony honoring legendary baseball coach Butch Hughes.

The first Hall of Fame event since before the COVID-19 pandemic will include a dedication ceremony for the newly renovated and renamed Butch Hughes Clubhouse, along with the induction of Hughes’ remarkable seven state championship teams from 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979 and 1980.

The celebration will include two days of events:

•      Friday, April 29, at 2 p.m. — Merced College baseball game vs. Porterville, including recognition of the championship baseball teams. Admission is free to all.

•      Saturday, April 30, from 12 to 3 p.m. — Hall of Fame Presentation and Butch Hughes Clubhouse Dedication Ceremony, at the Merced College Baseball Field. Stadium Favorites lunch and Blaker Brewing on tap. Tickets are $60 per person, or $500 to sponsor a table of eight.

“Coach Butch Hughes was an extraordinarily successful and integral part of Merced College baseball,” said Merced College Athletic Director Bob Casey. “He not only had an exemplary record coaching, but built strong, lasting relationships with his players. He was a champion for baseball at the college and in the local community. His impact on Merced College baseball is immense and leaves a lasting legacy.”

Hughes amassed an impressive win-loss record of 302-72 from 1971-1981. The program’s achievements during his time as coach included: 7 state championships; 7 conference championships; 47 All-Conference players; 7 All-American players; 20 players who signed professional contracts and many who went on to play at four-year colleges.

The clubhouse renovations include a much-needed facelift to the outside of the facility, as well as additional storage, paint, seating, bathrooms and flooring. It will provide the perfect environment for student-athletes to bond as a team, as well as a space to study and learn, according to baseball coach Nathan Devine.

“This will be a huge addition to the Blue Devil baseball program, and a great reminder of our program’s history,” Devine said. “Coach Hughes was instrumental in the early development of our baseball program and set the standard for future Blue Devil Baseball teams.”

Purchase tickets by April 18 at https://www.mccd.edu/rd/hall-of-fame. For information, call 209-384-6009.