UMATILLA, Fla. — On a night filled with emotion and remembrance, Umatilla High School paid tribute to former Bulldogs baseball player Bubba Sangster, who was tragically killed last year after he was struck on the side of the road in Astor in the westbound lane of State Road 40 and Blue Creek Lodge Road in the early morning hours by a 58-year-old Polk City woman who attempted to swerve and avoid him but tragically struck Bubba and he was later pronounced deceased on the scene. The ceremony, held before Saturday night’s game against Mount Dora, honored the legacy of the beloved alum whose impact extended far beyond the diamond.

(It was an incredibly emotional night for everyone. But a fitting tribute to a young man who’s impact went far beyond the baseball diamond.)

Bubba’s family was in attendance for the special occasion, with his loved ones taking part in the first-pitch ceremony. In a lasting tribute to his contributions to Umatilla baseball, the school officially renamed its batting cages “Bubba’s Batting Cage” and retired his No. 10 jersey, unveiling a commemorative photo on the batting cage to enshrine his memory.

Born on February 6, 1998, to Robert and Melissa Sangster, Bubba was a lifelong resident of Umatilla. He was a talented baseball player who excelled at Umatilla High School before continuing his career at St. Johns River State College in Palatka, Florida, and later at Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama. Outside of baseball, he was a dedicated father to his daughter, Emma, and a successful entrepreneur, operating his own business, Bubba’s Site-work. He loved the outdoors, enjoying fishing, hunting, and boxing.

(Bubba’s father Robert throws out the first pitch.)

Bubba’s father Robert Sangster said “I want to thank each and every person that was involved in Bubba’slife. A special thank you to Umatilla High baseball coach Tanner Clark and Kelly Bagwell for making a special night for our family. There’s a bunch of other angels that are looking out for him too. I was always proud of him. When I would come home from work, he would either aggravate me to death or tell me that we needed to help somebody with something because they didn’t have something. That’s the kind of person he was. Always wanting to help whenever and however he could. All I can say is mom and I miss you every day more than anything.”

(The Umatilla High Batting Cage was renamed Bubba’s Batting Cage. Bubba’s spirit continues to live on.)

In honor of his legacy, Umatilla players donned No. 10 jerseys for the game, with players and fans on both sides uniting in remembrance of a young man who transcended the sport. Known for his kindness and encouragement during his career, Bubba’s influence was evident throughout the night as the community came together to celebrate his life and do what Bubba would have wanted, play the game of baseball.

While the emotional evening culminated in a 3-1 victory for Mount Dora, the score was secondary to the greater significance of the night. Umatilla’s baseball program, its players, and the extended community will forever carry Bubba’s spirit, ensuring that his memory endures.

(The entire Umatilla High Baseball team wore #10 jersey’s in tribute to Bubba Sangster who’s number was 10.)

The Sangster family, teammates, and friends left the field with heavy hearts but with the assurance that Bubba’s presence will remain a lasting force at Umatilla High School for many years to come. This was a beautiful evening that meant a lot to the community but especially to the Sangster family. Thank you to everyone who made this night so special.

Photo Credit – Joe Ott Photography “Fan Zone”