The days are winding down as the 10-day countdown begins until the Nation’s Football Classic. Historically black universities Hampton and Howard, will square off on September 18 at RFK Stadium in Washington DC.
What is all the hype about ?
If you are one of the millions of members of the historically black college and university community, you know, all too well the age-old rivalry that exists between Hampton and Howard University. It is as simple as an abbreviation – H U. When asked: which HBCU is the real HU? each institution believes they have the correct answer. Both debate who is truly worthy, even forming hashtag #RealHU for social media fun.
We asked members of the Howard/Hampton freshman class what they expect to see, and they have already been swept up in the bandwagons of their schools:
“I expect to see someone from Hampton not knowing their history, because they were an institution first. We been real. We are the mecca.” -Jermaine F. -Howard University
“We are fundamentally the better school, check the record. I expect to see someone from Howard claiming to be the real HU, when they don’t even win games.” -Noelle J. -Hampton University
The Nation’s Football Classic is more than just a football game. Though the game is sure to live up to the hype, the football players and coaches are merely one component of the entire NFC Experience. The festivities include:
The Nation’s Football Classic is more than a football game. The classic weekend is greater than an HBCU rivalry. The NFC Experience places emphasis on aspects like fellowship, healthy competition, community service, heritage, and networking. Sports and athletics can be traced back to the early-mid 1800s on HBCU campuses. Though many did not develop official sports programs or funded departments until decades after opening their doors, the passion and interest need not be spoken to be understood. It is no secret that major and minor league sports associations have not always allowed minorities on the field, which created an early camaraderie for HBCU sports. HBCU athletics reflect a time prior to multi-million dollar contracts, a reflection of true love for the sport. This weekend is a celebration of this HBCU experience and tradition.
The NFC Experience is nestled in the heart of the nation, Washington DC. Because of this central location, large crowds including fellow HBCU alumni chapters, greek-letter organizations, community service organizations, local alumni, college students, and families are all anticipated. For more information and to join the NFC experience, visit nationsfootballclassic.com.
