Oct. 7, 2008

Download the 2008 Longball Classic pdf entry form here

The 2008 Longball Classic, the annual golf tournament fundraiser and dinner benefiting the Rice Owls baseball program, has been set for Nov. 5 at the Longwood Golf Club.

Not only will fans have a chance to show their support and help the Owls' baseball program, they'll have a chance meet head coach Wayne Graham and the coaching staff, win free prizes, attend an awards dinner after the tournament and bid in a silent auction - all after a day at the links at Longwood, one of the region's most beautiful and challenging golf courses. Special competitions within the event include the longest drive, closest to the pin and a hole-in-one bonus.

The event's format is a four-man Florida scramble with a shotgun start. A $175 player entry fee (or $700 per foursome) includes greens fees and box lunch, use of the driving range and golf carts. Event and hole sponsorships are still available at various donor levels.

The Longball Classic has helped Rice baseball maintain its status as one of the nation's elite college programs. In addition to 13 consecutive conference championships, the Owls advanced to the College World Series for a third-straight time last season and won the NCAA National Championship in 2003. Scores of former Owls have gone on to play in the pro ranks. Some will have a chance to come back for this event.

Rice has played three 14-inning exhibition games in the fall training period and won each one. The team's final exhibition to close fall is scheduled for Saturday, November 1. The Owls host longtime rival McNeese State for 14 innings at Reckling Park. The team plays its 2009 home-opener at Reckling Park on Feb. 25.