University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Baseball Announces Competitive Excellence Fee to Support Program Growth and Student-Athletes
10/29/2025 9:00:00 AM | Baseball
HATTIESBURG, Miss. – As anticipation builds for the upcoming Southern Miss Baseball season and an exciting home schedule, Southern Miss Athletics has announced the introduction of a Competitive Excellence Fee as part of the 2026 baseball season ticket renewal process.
The Competitive Excellence Fee is designed to provide direct support for Southern Miss Baseball and its student-athletes, helping the program remain competitive at the highest levels of collegiate athletics amid the evolving landscape of the NCAA.
"As the landscape of college athletics continues to change, it's important that we continue finding innovative ways to provide the resources necessary for sustained success," said Jeremy McClain, Southern Miss Director of Athletics. "The Competitive Excellence Fee represents an investment in the future of Southern Miss Baseball and our student-athletes, ensuring we remain among the nation's elite programs."
Under the new structure, 100 percent of the Competitive Excellence Fee for baseball will stay within the baseball program and directly benefit student-athlete initiatives. Funds will be allocated toward scholarships, and revenue sharing opportunities.
Recent NCAA changes now allow universities to fund additional scholarships beyond traditional limits, and the Competitive Excellence Fee will play a vital role in supporting that effort at Southern Miss.
"Our fans have always been the backbone of this program, and this initiative gives them another meaningful way to make a difference," said baseball coach Christian Ostander. "Every dollar from the Competitive Excellence Fee directly impacts our players — from scholarships to development opportunities — and helps ensure we continue to compete at the highest level. We're grateful for the continued passion and commitment of our Southern Miss faithful."
Season ticket renewals for Southern Miss Baseball open Wednesday, October 29 at 10 a.m., and fans are encouraged to renew their seats early for what promises to be another thrilling season at Pete Taylor Park.
For more information on ticket renewals and the Competitive Excellence Fee, visit SouthernMiss.com/Tickets or contact the Southern Miss Athletics Ticket Office at 1-800-844-TICK (8425).