We, the students, alumni, and supporters of Southern Methodist University (SMU), are deeply concerned about the absence of a baseball program in our esteemed institution. Baseball is more than just a sport; it forms an integral part of Texas's rich cultural heritage. SMU, with its proud athletic history, should rightfully be part of this tradition.

Texas is a breeding ground for baseball talent, and by not having a baseball team, SMU is missing out on an opportunity to harness local talent and enhance our university's athletic prestige. The reintroduction of baseball at SMU will not only honor the sport's deep roots in our state but also provide a new avenue for student-athletes to excel both on and off the field.

Furthermore, with SMU's recent move to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), having a baseball team is essential. Baseball will enable SMU to compete in one of the nation's premier collegiate athletic conferences fully, fostering school spirit and enhancing the university's athletic profile.

According to NCAA data from 2019-2020 academic year, there were over 11 thousand participants in Division I men’s baseball across America (source: NCAA). With Texas being one such hub for this sport, it is imperative that SMU taps into this potential by reinstating its own baseball program.

In keeping with Title IX requirements, we propose the addition of a women's sport alongside baseball. Women's softball, as a natural counterpart to baseball, or any other women's sport, would ensure gender equity in our athletic programs and open more opportunities for female athletes at our university.

This is more than just about sports; it's about community, tradition, and equal opportunities for all athletes at SMU. Let's bring back baseball and add a women's sport, strengthening our athletic program and honoring our commitment to diversity and inclusion in sports.

Texas has been known to produce some of the finest baseball talents in the country. By not having a baseball team, SMU is missing out on an opportunity to harness this local talent and enhance our university's athletic prestige. The reinstatement of our baseball program will not only provide opportunities for talented athletes but also boost school spirit and community engagement.

We urge you to consider our plea seriously and take immediate steps towards bringing back our beloved sport to SMU campus. Please sign this petition if you support reinstating the Baseball Program at Southern Methodist University.