SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
ORLANDO – Florida Blue is proud to be the title sponsor, yet again, of this year’s 44th annual Florida Blue Florida Classic. This marks the 14th consecutive year Florida Blue has sponsored this historic rivalry between the Florida A&M “Rattlers” and the Bethune-Cookman University “Wildcats.” In fact, the Florida Blue Florida Classic is highly regarded as the nation’s largest football game between two Historically Black College/University (HBCU) schools. Since its inception in 1978, the iconic game has now seen more than 2 million spectators attend.
Nearly 1.5 million fans have attended the Classic in Orlando since the game settled in Central Florida in 1997, uniting alumni and students in celebration. In addition to an average of close to 60,000 spectators in the stadium for the contest, thousands more fans fill Tampa Avenue, Lake Lorna Doone Park, FanFest at Tinker Field, and the surrounding community on gameday for tailgating, entertainment, and activities.
Another interesting fact many might not be aware of is that the Florida Blue Florida Classic is the only HBCU rivalry owned and operated by its participating teams, with ticket sales and corporate support of the event befitting both universities directly.
“The Florida Blue Florida Classic is more than just a game. It’s a celebration of events bringing together students, alumni, and our entire Central Florida community. Not only does this historic rivalry generate an estimated $30 million annually into our local economy but, much of the proceeds go directly towards scholarships for deserving students at both schools as well. Regardless of the final score, that’s a win for both “Rattlers” and “Wildcats” alike and something we can all truly be proud of!” said Tony Jenkins, Central Florida Market President, Florida Blue.
Aside from the big game, events throughout the week include a VIP “Night of Distinction” reception, a massive kickoff luncheon featuring both head coaches, a Friday night “Battle of the Bands” at the Kia Center, and the state’s largest diversity job fair.
This year’s 2024 Florida Blue Florida Classic will take place on Saturday, November 23rd at 3:30 p.m. inside Camping World Stadium. FanFest will kick-off four hours prior to the game at 11:30 a.m. at Tinker Field (just outside the West Side of Camping World Stadium). Admission to FanFest is FREE and a game ticket is NOT required. To learn more, visit: FloridaClassic.org
