BDI to Commemorate Bradenton Nine Devils with Historical Marker Installation at LECOM Park
By C.S. Howard
Bradenton, FL – The Boxser Diversity Initiative will join local leaders, community members and descendants of players on Saturday, June 14, for a private ceremony dedicating a new historical marker honoring the Bradenton Nine Devils, one of Florida’s most accomplished Negro League baseball teams.
The marker will be installed at LECOM Park, where the Nine Devils played their home games for almost two decades. The team earned its name after winning its first nine games and quickly became a symbol of pride for the Black community in Manatee County during the era of segregation. Many of the players rivaled the talent of those in the major leagues but were denied opportunity because of racial discrimination.
“This marker is a permanent recognition of the excellence and resilience of the Bradenton Nine Devils,” said BDI co-founder and Board Chair Dan Boxser.
“It also reflects the strength of a community that celebrated these athletes when the broader world refused to see their value. We are proud to help preserve and share this story.”
The morning ceremony will include guests, family members of former players and representatives from the organizations that collaborated to bring the project to life, such as the Manatee Community Foundation — a primary partner of the project. Speakers will include Board Director Judge Charles Williams and other local leaders.
Later that day, the public is invited to celebrate the team’s legacy during the Bradenton Nine Devils Tribute Night as the Bradenton Marauders take on the Jupiter Hammerheads. First pitch is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at LECOM Park, with gates opening at 5 p.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to view the new marker and learn about the team’s legacy.
The evening will conclude with a Jubilee and Awards Ceremony, featuring live music by Jah Movement, sponsored by the Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce.
Project partners
• Manatee Community Foundation (Primary partner)
• Bradenton Marauders
• Community Redevelopment Agency, City of Bradenton
• Family Heritage House
•Historical Resources Division, Manatee County Clerk of Courts
• Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce Manatee County Public Library System
• Oaktree Community Outreach
• Pittsburgh Pirates
• RECESS Education
• Reflections of Manatee
• Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition
