A novel mix of sports activities stardom and athleticism took heart stage this weekend as former NFL famous person Michael Vick tossed passes to undefeated boxing champion Terence “Bud” Crawford on the turf at Norfolk State College, a Virginia HBCU. The impromptu route-running session turned heads, particularly as Crawford squared off in opposition to his good friend DeMarcus McMillan, the Spartans’ newly appointed Director of Soccer Operations.
Crawford, a three-division world champion and present undisputed welterweight titleholder, confirmed off extra than simply his boxing abilities, demonstrating agility and fingers whereas working crisp routes. The Omaha native is presently getting ready for probably the most anticipated fights of the 12 months in opposition to Canelo Alvarez for the undisputed tremendous middleweight championship on September 13, 2025. With an unblemished 41-0 document and a repute for his technical precision and energy, Crawford stays considered one of boxing’s elite.
His opponent for the day, DeMarcus McMillan, brings a singular mix of self-discipline and management to the Norfolk State program. A adorned navy veteran with over 22 years of service, McMillan transitioned into athletics by means of youth soccer and operations roles. However on Saturday McMillan lined up at defensive again to try to shut the champ down. It didn’t work.
On one route Crawford was jammed on the line, however broke free to catch a superbly positioned over-the-shoulder cross from Vick. Crawford additionally ran a fast slant to the surface that left McMillan tumbling throughout the sector at Dick Worth Stadium. But it surely was all in enjoyable as the 2 laughed and slapped fingers after every cross, as a small group of Norfolk State staffers laughed within the background.
The sight of Vick — probably the most electrical quarterbacks in NFL historical past — taking part in quarterback once more, even casually, added a layer of movie star aptitude. As a Newport Information native, Vick continues to carry consideration to HBCU packages by means of his community, and this viral second is one other instance of how star energy can elevate visibility for Black faculty soccer.
Earlier than the day was over McMillan did get some pleasure again when Terence Crawford lined up at nook. He ran a 30 yard go route as “all-time” quarterback Michael Vick positioned the ball proper into his abdomen as he circled. The video rapidly unfold throughout social media as the 2 sports activities worlds collided for the day in Norfolk.
Michael Vick wrote on social media, “Cash at all times on @tbudcrawford…”
With Crawford’s star energy, Vick’s affect, and McMillan’s management, Norfolk State discovered itself on the intersection of sports activities, tradition, and alternative, and HBCU soccer continues to profit from the publicity.
