ROME--The schedule has been adjusted for this weekend's baseball games against Delta State. Originally, Friday was to feature the doubleheader between the teams, with Saturday scheduled as a single nine inning game. Now, Friday will be the single nine inning game with the doubleheader being moved to Saturday; games will begin at noon both days.
 
Saturday, the Hawks will honor the memory of former baseball standout, Joe Hackett, by presenting Hackett's nephew, Colton Cross, with the Joe Hackett Award. Cross is a current member of the Hawks pitching staff, and will wear Hackett's retired No. 16 for Saturday's game.
 
In 1980, a tragic car wreck took the life of Shorter pitcher Joe Hackett, the Hawks along with Hackett's family have made sure to continue his legacy in the Shorter community. As a member of the Hawks, Hackett was an outstanding pitcher where he earned All- District, All-Conference, All-area, and 1st team All-American honors.  During his two years at Shorter College, Hackett broke 6 NAIA records – most starts, appearances, innings pitched, complete games, wins, and currently holds the record for most strikeouts with 209 in 177 2/3 innings pitched. 
 
Also in honor of Hackett, Luann Cross, Colton's mother and Joe's sister, will be throwing out the game's ceremonial first pitch.
 
Prior to Saturday's first game, Candice Carlton, a kindergarten teacher at West Central Elementary and a member of the praise team at Shorter Avenue Baptist, will sing the National Anthem. Erskine Thompson, a member of Pleasant Valley South Church will sing God Bless America prior to the second game on the doubleheader.