A Life Defined by Baseball
The baseball community mourns the loss of Roger Cador, a legendary figure at Southern University, who died at the age of 74. A public viewing was held at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, followed by a memorial service that drew teammates, former players and admirers from across the sport.
Cador first made his mark as a two‑sport athlete in the early 1970s, excelling in both basketball and baseball for the Jaguars. In 1972 he led the team with a .393 batting average, a performance that earned him a draft selection by the Atlanta Braves the following year.
Historic Milestones
After a brief professional stint, Cador returned to his alma mater as head coach in 1985, a role he would hold for 33 years. Under his guidance the program captured 14 conference championships and earned 11 appearances in the NCAA tournament, highlighted by a landmark victory in 1987 when his squad became the first HBCU to win an NCAA tournament game.
His impact extended beyond wins. Cador mentored 10 All‑Americans and oversaw the development of 62 players who were selected in the Major League Baseball draft. His career record stood at 913‑597‑1, a testament to sustained excellence.
Honors and Legacy
In recognition of his contributions, Cador was inducted into the Southwestern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame in 2018 and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. Tributes highlighted not only his sporting achievements but also his role as a mentor and community leader.
Colleagues and former players remember Cador as a disciplined yet compassionate teacher who shaped the lives of many. His legacy continues to inspire current and future generations of athletes at Southern University and beyond.