CWU Night with the Mariners celebrates crimson and black connections

It might have been the collective roar of 3,000 Wildcats from the seats of T-Mobile Park that helped rally the Mariners to a come-from-behind win against the Houston Astros on April 11.

Or maybe the good luck began with the heartfelt rendition of the national anthem, sung by CWU’s own Take That A Cappella club with music alumnus Michael “Wanz” Wansley (’18). Perhaps that first pitch from CWU Foundation Board president Janet Backus warmed up the mound in the Mariners’ favor. Taken together, Wildcat energy was strong at CWU Night with the Mariners, made even  better by a hard-fought win by the home team.  

This year’s annual event sold a record-breaking number of tickets, which included a pre-game meet-up at Victory Hall, and a custom co-branded, crimson Mariners jersey for each attendee. For many, the event served as more than just a night at the ballpark. CWU Associate Director of Alumni Programs Casey Ross explained that CWU Night with the Mariners plays an important role in strengthening the broader Wildcat community.

“This event really serves as a bridge that connects our Wildcat family from every walk of life—from faculty and staff, current students, donors, and alumni across the generations,” Ross said. “It's a real treat to see friends reconnect and share memories while making new ones together.”

One of the most important aspects of the event is fostering meaningful connections between alumni and current students. Each year, Ross has a unique vantage point, working closely with both groups.

“It’s always powerful to connect students and recent grads who are taking their first career steps with alumni who are further along in that journey,” he said. “This year, I overheard an alum tell a student that it’s okay if they don’t have it figured out yet—and then gesture to all of the crimson jerseys and say, ‘You’ve got a whole family here to help you find your next steps.’” 

Alumni support also makes the night possible for many students. For nearly a decade, alumnus Mark “Remy” Remington (’84) has coordinated a group of alumni to attend. This year, graduates from the classes of 1982-86 collectively purchased 91 tickets and sponsored 31 student tickets. 

“With generous support, participants rounded up their ticket costs,” Remington explained. “For every six alumni tickets, we were able to support one student. Many contributed even more.”

Remington remains committed to growing the alumni group and supporting students, with a goal of 100 Mariners tickets and more student interaction for next year. The impact on everyone creates important memories.

“Any time our CWU family gets together is a highlight,” he said. “The stories continue to grow from the truth!”

Alumna Kiana Shaw (’09), who serves as the scholarship and engagement committee chair for the CWU Alumni Association Board, has seen the event expand over the years. She’s been moved by the connections made, both new and renewed.

“But my all-time favorite part has to be the sea of crimson and black CWU Mariners jerseys.” said Shaw, “It’s an incredible show of Wildcat pride.”

There is certainly no limit to the power of the Wildcat community, especially when alumni and students come together, sharing the joy, energy, and camaraderie of a shared legacy, under the bright lights of a professional baseball stadium.