Feb. 15, 2008

LUBBOCK, Texas - Texas Tech's season-opening baseball series against the Northern Illinois Huskies will be played as scheduled beginning on Friday, Feb. 22 at 3 p.m. The Northern Illinois campus is in mourning today after a gunman opened fire in a lecture hall, killing six and injuring 15 others. All Husky athletics events were cancelled for this weekend.

The following is a statement on behalf of Texas Tech Head Baseball Coach Larry Hays:

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the victims of this senseless tragedy. Our baseball program has become very close with Northern Illinois and Ed Mathey (head coach) and his staff over the last five years, and we want them to know that we support them in every way. We regret that they are forced to go through this difficult time, but we know that God's strength and their support of each other will comfort them in this hour of need."

The following is a statement on behalf of Texas Tech University President Jon Whitmore:

"On behalf of the Texas Tech University community, I extend our deepest sympathy to the students, faculty and staff at Northern Illinois University. As you face the trying days ahead, you are in our thoughts and prayers."

Texas Tech and Northern Illinois will be meeting for the fourth time in the last five years as the series dates back to the 2004 season.