The 2025 HBCU soccer season opened with fireworks in Canton, Ohio, as Virginia Union dominated Miles School within the Black School Soccer Corridor of Fame Traditional. The Panthers made probably the most of their nationwide stage on NFL Community, storming to a 45–3 win that showcased why they’re a prime HBCU and CIAA contender.
Offensive Explosion Behind Curtis Allen
Senior working again Curtis Allen stole the present. He rumbled for 185 yards on 17 carries and scored two touchdowns, together with a panoramic 53-yard hurdle into the top zone. Allen not solely powered Virginia Union’s floor sport but additionally set the Traditional’s single-game speeding document and walked away because the Offensive Participant of the Recreation.
Quarterback RJ Rosales added steadiness, going 9-of-15 for 120 yards and a landing, whereas additionally speeding for 54 yards and one other rating. Senior QB Mark Wright related with Ricky Key Jr. for a 35-yard TD earlier than later hitting Keon Davis on a 48-yard strike. Freshman RB Raphael Tucker sealed the win with a 19-yard landing run within the ultimate minute. In whole, Virginia Union piled up 375 speeding yards and 556 whole yards, dwarfing Miles’ 249.
Protection Units the Tone
The Panthers’ protection appeared each bit as fierce as marketed. They restricted Miles School to simply 50 speeding yards and compelled 5 turnovers, together with two interceptions. Junior defensive lineman Kamari Frederick earned Defensive Participant of the Recreation honors for main a relentless cross rush and shutting down the Bears’ offense.
Coach Parker’s “Play411” Message
After the sport, head coach Dr. Alvin Parker emphasised the staff’s id and the pleasure of representing Virginia Union and HBCU soccer.“Our motto is Play411. So every thing we do relies on that,” Parker mentioned. “Anytime we get to indicate the world our model, we’re going to benefit from it. The best way these guys performed right this moment, I’m extraordinarily proud. I may not be as proud after I return and watch the movie, however I need to make sure that we hold enjoying our degree finest, irrespective of the place we’re.”
Trying Forward
With a commanding victory within the books, Virginia Union turns its focus to the HBCU Unity Traditional towards Edward Waters on September 13. The Panthers are chasing a historic CIAA three-peat, one thing they final achieved underneath Corridor of Famer Willard Bailey within the early Eighties. For Miles School, the 45–3 loss is a troublesome opening lesson as they put together for Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Convention play.
