Photo credit: Hip Rock Star
The Orange Blossom Classic (OBC) host committee recently convened city and county officials to announce Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) highly anticipated return to the game. This Labor Day weekend, FAMU will face off against Howard University, a matchup with deep historical roots. Both schools boast a strong alumni presence in South Florida, adding to the local excitement. Since its revival in 2021, the OBC has drawn Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) alumni, students, and supporters from across the nation to South Florida. The host committee is committed to delivering another memorable year of celebration, camaraderie, and HBCU pride.
“The Orange Blossom Classic is a big part of why I saw myself as a Rattler,” said Oliver Gilbert III, Chairman of the Miami-Dade County Commission. “I remember seeing the band in Liberty City during the parade, and the stands felt like a house party in the Orange Bowl. It was Black excellence before we even called it that—it was community and always fun.”
The OBC press conference took place on Wednesday, January 29, at Miami Gardens City Hall. This year’s game is set for Saturday, August 30, at Hard Rock Stadium. As a historic HBCU football event in Miami, the OBC provides a national platform for HBCU athletes, with the game broadcast on ESPN. Over the years, the event has expanded beyond the field, evolving into a weekend-long celebration featuring a battle of the bands, a parade, and various community events, all aimed at raising funds for HBCU students.
“We’re excited to showcase not only the teams playing here in Miami Gardens but also HBCUs nationwide,” said Rodney Harris, Mayor of Miami Gardens. “This event brings awareness to the needs of HBCUs, and we’re proud to be part of the Orange Blossom Classic’s continued growth.”
Photo credit: Hip Rock Star
Excitement at the press conference was undeniable as officials celebrated FAMU’s return to the Classic. In 2024, the university did not participate due to administrative decisions, leading to a matchup between Alabama State University and North Carolina Central University. However, interim FAMU President Dr. Timothy L. Beard made it official by signing a multi-year contract, ensuring the school’s involvement in future OBC games.
“When you have the right leadership that believes in what you’re doing, bringing FAMU back was an easy yes,” said Kendra Bulluck-Major, Executive Director of the Orange Blossom Classic. “The bigger challenge was rearranging schedules—some matchups had to be moved, and we had to negotiate with schools since these schedules are set years in advance. But with a committed executive director, president, and athletic director, making it happen was a priority.”
Howard University’s participation in the 2025 OBC carries special significance. The two schools first faced off in the inaugural OBC game in 1933 at a segregated ballpark in Jacksonville, Florida, where FAMU secured a 9-0 victory. More recently, in December 2023, FAMU edged out Howard by four points in the Cricket Celebration Bowl in Atlanta. This rich history inspired this year’s OBC theme: Built on History, Fueled by Pride.
“You need pride to fuel something like this,” Bulluck-Major emphasized. “‘Fueled by Pride’ speaks to the impact the Orange Blossom Classic has had on so many people. ‘Built on History’ takes us back to where it all began in 1933—and now, we’re bringing that energy back after our showdown in December 2023.”
The OBC host committee is wasting no time in rallying excitement, making early announcements to build momentum. With FAMU officially back in the game and Howard as their opponent, Bulluck-Major and the committee are calling on alumni, students, and supporters to pack Miami Gardens for an unforgettable Labor Day weekend.
Photo credit: Hip Rock Star
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