DECATUR, Ill. – announced today a new partnership with and the City of Decatur to bring a Prospect League summer collegiate baseball team to , beginning with the 2026 season. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Decatur Civic Center, attended by representatives from all three organizations.
Golden Rule Entertainment, the ownership group behind the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes and Quincy Doggy Paddlers, has selected Decatur as the newest home of a Prospect League franchise, marking the league’s 20th team.
鶹Լ President Dr. Dean Pribbenow emphasized that this opportunity perfectly reflects the University’s strategic priorities.
“When I arrived here four and a half months ago, I made clear that campus–community partnerships were going to be central to my vision,” Pribbenow said. “I certainly didn’t expect that just a couple of months later we would have this wonderful opportunity present itself at our doorstep, and we were delighted to respond.”
Pribbenow highlighted the collaborative spirit that brought the project together, noting the leadership of Vice President for Athletics & Community Engagement Lori Kerans and 鶹Լ Baseball Head Coach & Assistant Athletic Director Brandon Townsend, who worked closely with GRE to ensure the project aligned with university goals and facility needs.
“This is a mutually beneficial partnership among so many different parties,” Pribbenow said. “We are proud to open our doors and offer the Workman Family Baseball Field – a top-tier venue – as the home for this new team. It will provide a tremendous fan experience while benefiting both the University and the City.”
Leaders from GRE and the City of Decatur echoed the President’s focus on shared value and community impact. GRE President and Chief Storyteller Jamie Toole praised 鶹Լ’s facilities and collaborative approach:
“There’s no nicer facility than 鶹Լ University. Coach Townsend has been sensational and his vision for the ballpark and his openness to partnership made this possible,” he said.
Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe emphasized the city’s enthusiasm for the project.
“You’ve come to the right city. Decatur is a baseball town. This brings family-friendly entertainment, it’s affordable, and it brings people right to our own backyard," she said. "It’s also a huge win for 鶹Լ, bringing more visitors to campus and showcasing what the University has to offer.”
Pribbenow noted the broader value the team will bring to the Decatur community.
“The real winners will be the residents of this community. This team will bring excitement, economic activity, and family-friendly entertainment to our doorstep,” he said. “The civic pride this generates is something we can’t even measure.”
He also praised the collaboration required to bring the project to fruition.
“I am truly grateful to Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe and the entire city, and to the full Golden Rule Entertainment team, who saw an opportunity and worked with us to make this happen,” he said. “And of course, Brandon (Townsend’s) leadership was foundational. His willingness to engage, negotiate, and roll up his sleeves is the reason we’re celebrating today.”
The GRE leadership team also announced several immediate initiatives for the Decatur team:
- A community-driven “Name the Team” contest will open soon at DecaturBaseball.com.
- A Hot Stove Social featuring legendary Cubs broadcaster Pat Hughes will be held Feb. 4, 2026, in Decatur.
- Season ticket information and fan engagement opportunities will be released in the coming weeks.
GRE also committed to long-term investment in facility enhancements and community programming, aligning with 鶹Լ’s vision for high-quality athletics and student experiences.
About the Prospect League
The Prospect League is a top-tier summer collegiate wooden-bat league featuring players from NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, and junior college programs nationwide. With the addition of Decatur, the league reaches 20 teams across seven states, providing high-level baseball and strong community engagement.
