Florida Classic Football Game Showcases In-State HBCU Rivals

Nothing compares with the exhilarating experience of watching two renowned college football teams battle it out in the Florida Classic. For years, this friendly football competition played between Florida A&M University (FAMU) and Bethune-Cookman (B-CU) University has lured millions of fans. This year, the two teams will clash for the 33^rd time starting with their kickoff on November 17.

History of The Florida Classic

The Florida Classic is one of the largest HBCU Classics in the nation. This annual in-state rivalry has been a premier match-up for generations. The famous series started way back on 1925, played between FAMU and B-CU.

At first, the series were held in their home stadiums but as years passed and more and more fans are watching the game, they moved on to larger venues like Daytona International Speedway and Doak Campbell Stadium. However, in 1978 these two schools finally decided to conduct all their games in Tampa.

But it didn’t last long in the site because in 1997, they moved the series to Orlando’s Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium where a whopping 56,351 spectators present. A year later, the Florida Classic attracted 66,245 football fanatics and the number continued to rise. Presently, they recorded over 1.5 million viewers in all.

The Florida Classic became a success and in 2005, the game had its first live telecast via ESPNU and in 2009 it was featured in ESPN Classic.

The Tickets

So how do you get tickets to this major event? The general public can buy tickets through phone or by purchasing personally in any Ticketmaster outlets. Meanwhile, students can buy from school box offices of B-CU and FAMU. On the other hand, accessible seating and group tickets can be bought at Florida Citrus Sports. All proceeds will go to participating institutions’ programs for educational development such as scholarships and grants.

The Events

The Florida Classic isn’t all about football. In fact, the series serves as an excellent venue for HBCUs students nationwide to engage in various activities. Aside from the main football game, there’s also the Florida Classic Battle of the Bands that features marching bands and dance teams from different high schools in the country.

Further, there’s also Florida Blue’s Florida Classic Consortium Kickoff Luncheon where top university official, student leaders, football players, and other key individuals gather together and discuss the match that will take place between the Rattlers and Wildcats.

Among others, there’s also the Florida Classic Career Expo and Diversity Job Fair where recruiters and companies in Florida conduct seminars and rub elbows with probable applicants. It also serves as a great opportunity for college students and employed individuals to meet representatives of companies operating in Florida.

Stephanie Gallardo

Hey everyone, I'm Stephanie! With 15 years under my belt as a dedicated freelance writer, I've found a special place here at HBCU Lifestyle where I can merge my writing expertise with my love for the vibrant world of HBCUs. Beyond the campus buzz, I'm a huge travel enthusiast and an animal lover at heart. Whether I'm exploring new destinations or hanging out with my furry friends, these experiences enrich my storytelling. Here, I dive into topics close to my heart – diversity, inclusion, and the dynamic life at HBCUs – and bring a unique perspective shaped by my journeys and adventures. Join me in celebrating the spirit of HBCUs and the diverse stories that make our community so special!