The University of Illinois Springfield has canceled the UIS Baseball and Softball First Pitch Event scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 24, due to forecasted winter weather and below-freezing temperatures in the Springfield area.

With a winter storm warning in effect and snow expected throughout the weekend, the decision was made to prioritize the safety of student-athletes, staff, and attendees.

The annual First Pitch Event was set to kick off the 2026 seasons for UIS Baseball and Softball. The UIS softball team opens the season Jan. 30 in Rosemont against Roosevelt, while the baseball team begins play Feb. 6 at Savannah State in Savannah, Georgia.

Fans who have registered for the event will be contacted directly with the option of donating the ticket payment to one of the two sport programs or requesting a refund. 

UIS Athletics appreciates the understanding and continued support of Prairie Stars fans and looks forward to the upcoming baseball and softball seasons.