Chicago Football Classic at Soldier Field helps provide scholarships for HBCU students
CHICAGO (WLS) -- It was more than just a game for the students who competed in a special college football matchup Saturday in Chicago.
The Morehouse College Tigers and Kentucky State University Thorobreds faced off in the Chicago Football Classic at Solider Field.
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The energy and culture of the HBCUs were on full display, bringing in talent from Kentucky to Chicago. All of it came together for one good cause.
The yearly football game helps to provide scholarships for students at historically Black colleges and universities. This is the 26th year for the historic tradition.
"It brings people together," fan Charlesetta Scott said. "It's a safe weekend... everyone is having a good time."
It's how we make intragenerational change, so every time we create a new scholarship, it means we're going to better a life.Andy Beshear, Kentucky Governor
The festivities offered plenty of fun for the family while also giving prospective students a chance to see what HBCUs have to offer when making their college decisions.
The athletes brought it all on the field, going back and forth in a thriller with Morehouse College coming out on top. However, the day was still a win for everyone involved.
"Sometimes I think it gets overlooked in our communities, but I'm glad it paints the picture that you can attend one of these schools and get a quality education," fan Zack Gibson said.
The Chicago Classic awards 20 renewable scholarships to students each year while also offering different raffles for the community.
"Scholarships make education possible especially in inner-city areas... so scholarships, exposure, tradition... it's all important," Morehouse alum Karen Fields-Lever said.
SEE ALSO | 2 North Carolina HBCU students tabbed as next generation of journalists through special scholarship
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear made an appearance at the event, cheering on Kentucky State University and discussing the importance of the tradition.
"It's how we make intragenerational change, so every time we create a new scholarship, it means we're going to better a life, so today is a good day," Beshear said.
Mayor Brandon Johnson was also in attendance, giving remarks on the historic event while also honoring Reverend Jesse Jackson with a service award.
"Thank you very much," Johnson said. "God bless you. We love you, and let's play some football."
