Philly HBCU Classic doubles football slate for 4,000 students

The One Philly HBCU Classic returned to Lincoln Financial Field for its second year with a doubled football schedule.

Organizers expanded the format to include two games, starting Friday night with the Virginia Union University Panthers and the Lincoln University Lions.

More than 4,000 high school students from across Philadelphia were transported to the venue by bus.

These students attended a college and career fair alongside the games, giving them direct access to recruitment representatives.

Some institutions offered on-the-spot admissions decisions during the fair, creating immediate enrollment opportunities for attendees.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker noted the cultural weight of the event, stating, "This is the alma mater of Thurgood Marshall and the poet Langston Hughes. Just to see people lift the culture up."

Students reported that the direct contact with college staff helped clarify their higher education options.

Leila Ray, a 12th grader, said, "It's nice to see all the opportunities laid out in front of us. And the people from the colleges are very engaging."

Fiona Gaymon, also a 12th grader, expressed interest in Historically Black Colleges and Universities after seeing the various options presented.

She said, "I'm really interested in going to an HBCU. So seeing all the different HBCU and learning about them is really good."

The event included a step show competition judged by 6abc's Christie Ileto and School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Tony Watlington.

Ileto said, "I love seeing the high school kids here because it's giving them a lot of inspiration to really aim to go to higher learning, go to college." Watlington added, "I was wishing for my college days back." Rapper Ludacris performed during halftime for the crowd, which included community members and notable guests. Organizers described the classic as a growing cultural event centered on HBCU traditions. Parker added, "Historically Black Colleges and Universities lifted up along with everything that comes with that culture." Activities continue Saturday with a battle of the bands scheduled for 11 a.m. at Lincoln Financial Field. Former Philadelphia Eagles players Michael Vick, now head coach at Norfolk State, and DeSean Jackson, now head coach at Delaware State, are scheduled to return to the field before their teams play at 3 p.m. Tickets for the Saturday games are still available.