HBCU soccer is making a triumphant return to Upstate New York because the second annual Frederick Douglass HBCU Soccer Basic heads again to Rochester on Saturday, September 27. The matchup? Central State College Marauders (Wilberforce, Ohio) vs. Lane Faculty Dragons (Jackson, Tennessee). A battle of proud HBCU applications with deep roots.
The sport might be performed on the Rochester Group Sports activities Advanced, the identical venue that hosted final yr’s inaugural conflict, which noticed Albany State roll previous Central State in a 28–7 victory. However this yr, it’s greater than redemption for the Marauders—it’s about inspiring a brand new era.
Storied Legacy
“This occasion is an unimaginable alternative to introduce Rochester college students to the wealthy tradition, storied legacy, and tutorial excellence of America’s traditionally Black faculties and universities,” stated Rochester Mayor Malik Evans throughout the official announcement. “This sport and the occasions surrounding it assist our youth develop their horizons and see what’s attainable.”
And “the occasions surrounding it” aren’t simply window dressing—they’re the heartbeat of the Weekend of Hope, a multi-day celebration designed to attach highschool college students with life-changing greater schooling alternatives. Sponsored by Baldwin Richardson Meals and arranged by Xperience Reside LLC, the Basic blends soccer, tradition, and group with a transparent mission: publicity and empowerment.
Greater than a Recreation
The weekend kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 25, with an HBCU Faculty Honest on the Blue Cross Area, that includes reps from over 20 HBCUs prepared to help with on-site purposes, monetary help information, and admissions steerage. Friday brings the power with a pep rally and media day, setting the tone for Saturday’s huge sport.
However earlier than kickoff, the group will get another style of custom—a pre-game tailgate occasion from 8 a.m. to midday. Count on meals, music, and HBCU delight on full show.
“It’s necessary to have native college students see and really feel native individuals who have finished this,” stated Varick Baiyina, CEO of Xperience Reside. “Once they see it, they’ll imagine it. So imagine it.”
HBCU soccer is about extra than simply what occurs between the traces—it’s legacy, tradition, and group. And in Rochester, it’s turning into a motion.
Mark your calendars—Sept. 27. Central State vs. Lane. The Frederick Douglass HBCU Soccer Basic is again in Rochester, New York, and greater than ever.
