6 Reasons We Should All Support HBCU Football Classics

FAMU 28 – TSU 21. Despite the final score, the game wasn’t nearly that close as the Florida A&M Rattlers were in control throughout entire afternoon at the 20th Annual Bank of America Atlanta Football Classic. The “classic,” which is sponsored by the leading financial institution, as well as the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, saw the Rattlers defeat Tennessee State University for their 7th straight victory in the storied series. The experience as a whole provided the perfect opportunity to examine 6 Reasons We Should All Support HBCU Football Classics. –dewayne rogers
 1. The HistoryEach year, two historically black colleges converge upon a city to celebrate not only the heritage of black institutions of higher learning, but to also cast a celebratory eye towards the increasingly bright future of black athletics. In the end, the trophy presented to the winner represents all that has been and all that will be. 
2. The RivalryNo one wants to leave town having lost the classic. The buildup to the game reaches a fever pitch as students, cheerleaders, band members, mascots, and alumni alike all passionately attempt to will their team to victory.

3. Brings Us Together GenerationallyYoung and old join together in the spirit of unity to cheer on their respective teams. From small kids, to current students, to an older generation whose only option was to attend an HBCU, a common ground is forged during these HBCU classics. 
4. The PageantryWhat a majestic sight to behold as the kings and queens of their respective schools hold court, proudly representing the cream of their school’s bountiful crop. 

5. The Student AthleteThe HBCU student athlete is often over-looked as Division I powerhouse programs typically garner all of the attention from the mainstream media. But when the classic comes to town, the student athletes who tirelessly work to not only perform, but to also receive a great education, finally get their day in the spotlight. 

6. The Marching BandsAs important as the game is, there is another aspect of an HBCU classic that rivals the on-the-field-action. The bands. From the confident strut the drum major, to the menacing gait of the tuba players, the bands provide just as much gamesmanship as the players themselves.