Inaugural Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic comes to Rochester

Officials announced Wednesday that the city of Rochester will host the inaugural Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic Weekend of Hope on Saturday, Sept. 21.

The Central State University Marauders of Ohio will take on the Albany State Rams of Georgia on Sept. 21. Kick-off is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Rochester Community Sports Complex on Oak Street.

“We’re thrilled to bring an HBCU Football Classic to Rochester,” Mayor Malik Evans said in a statement. “This event is not just about football; it’s about investing in our youth, celebrating the rich culture of HBCUs, and strengthening the bonds between our community and law enforcement. I can’t wait to see our city come together for a weekend of fun, unity, and inspiration.”

Game-day tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online. Events will be taking place throughout Saturday, including a tailgate event beginning at 9. a.m. A battle of the bands featuring Central State’s Invincible Marching Marauders and the Albany State Marching Rams Show Band will take place after the game.

Weekend of Hope runs from Thursday, Sept. 19 through Sunday, Sept. 22 and features several public events and invitation-only opportunities for city of Rochester high school students to engage with HBCU alumni, athletic staff, players and marching bands.