Feb. 9, 2004

LOS ANGELES -- The USC baseball program will celebrate legendary former head coach Rod Dedeaux's 90th birthday on Saturday (Feb. 14) in a ceremony prior to the 1 p.m. start against Long Beach State. The game at Dedeaux Field is the 2004 regular season home opener for the Trojans.

Guests for the pre-game ceremony include three members of major league baseball's Hall of Fame: Tom Seaver, Sparky Anderson and Tommy Lasorda. Seaver pitched for the Trojans in 1967, while Anderson served as a batboy for Dedeaux during the 1948 season.

Dedeaux, who turns 90 on Feb. 17, spent 45 seasons (1942-86) as USC's head coach. He led the Trojans to an unprecedented 11 national championships, including a record five straight titles from 1970-74. He was named "Coach of the Century" by Baseball America and Collegiate Baseball and posted an overall record of 1,332-571-11 (.699).

Long-time USC announcer Tom Kelly will emcee the ceremony.

Fans are encouraged to arrive at noon prior to the start of the ceremony. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or by calling the USC ticket office at (213) 740-GO SC.

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