News Summary
The Savannah State University baseball community is grieving the untimely passing of former player Brett Higgins, who died from an apparent heart attack while coaching a youth team. Higgins was a standout player during his college years, known for his exceptional skills and sportsmanship. His legacy is remembered fondly by teammates and coaches as they come together to celebrate his life and contributions to the sport. The community came together for his funeral, reflecting on the deep connections formed through shared experiences in baseball.
Cooperstown, New York – The community surrounding Savannah State University’s baseball program is grieving the unexpected loss of former player Brett Higgins, who passed away on July 13, 2025, due to an apparent heart attack. Higgins, aged 45, was coaching a 12U travel baseball team in Cooperstown when he fell ill shortly after dinner.
Emergency services were summoned after Higgins expressed his discomfort to another coach. He was quickly transported to the hospital, where he was later declared dead. The news has sent shockwaves through the sports community, particularly among former teammates and coaches who remember Higgins for his contributions on the field and his leadership qualities.
Brett Higgins was a standout player for the Savannah State Tigers baseball team during his tenure from 1999 to 2000. His junior year in particular was remarkable; Higgins led the team with 73 runs, 74 hits, and 21 doubles, achieving a formidable batting average of .413. He was a crucial part of the Tigers’ success that year, which included securing a Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) title and advancing to the NCAA Division II South Regional.
Higgins enjoyed a particularly outstanding 2000 season, where he posted impressive statistics that included six triples, ten home runs, 62 RBIs, and 23 stolen bases. Additionally, he played a significant role in setting a NCAA record for consecutive wins with 46 that season. His performance was not only pivotal in helping the team succeed but also showcased his individual talent, as he achieved a record of 32 doubles and led the Tigers with 87 runs, 98 hits, a batting average of .513, 19 home runs, and 93 RBIs.
After his time at Savannah State, Higgins pursued a professional baseball career, playing with the Seattle Mariners Minor League affiliate, the AquaSox, as well as stints with teams such as the Canton Crocodiles and the Lake County Knights. His commitment to baseball originated from his early days at Lakeland Community College, where he also played junior college baseball before joining the Tigers.
The impact Higgins had on his teammates and the Savannah State basketball community was profound. He exemplified dedication and talent, serving as a role model for younger players. His contributions extended well beyond the field; he was pursuing a degree in mass communications while excelling in athletics, balancing academics with a competitive sports career.
Funeral services for Brett Higgins were held on July 23, 2025, at Citadel of Faith Ministries in Maple Heights, Ohio. The service brought together family, friends, former teammates, and coaches, all of whom came to pay their respects and celebrate his life. The outpouring of support highlights the strong bonds formed through shared experiences in sports, as many reflected on Higgins’s infectious enthusiasm and commitment to the game.
As the Savannah State baseball community mourns the loss of Brett Higgins, they also celebrate his legacy as an exceptional athlete and mentor. His contributions to the team and the moments shared on and off the field will remain etched in the memories of those who knew him. The sadness felt by the community underscores the fragility of life and the deep connections forged through a shared love of baseball.
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Savannah State University Baseball Team Launches New Team Uniforms
- Google Search: Savannah State University Baseball
- Savannah Tribune: Former SSU Baseball Star Dies at Age 48
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
- HBCU Buzz: Savannah State University Appoints Tino Burgos as New Head Baseball Coach
- Google News: Brett Higgins Savannah State
- WSAV: Savannah State Hires New Head Baseball Coach
- Google Search: Savannah State University
- Wyoming News: Savannah State’s Tuggle Picks Up Several Honors
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
