MEAC/SWAC Challenge returns to Central Florida
Bright House Networks Stadium will host the Tenth Annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge this Sunday, a yearly event which showcases two Historically Black College and Universities that kicks off the college football season bringing in an estimated 20,000 fans.
“The MEAC/SWAC Challenge Presented by Disney brings the excitement of HBCU football to Central Florida and we’re looking forward to celebrating the game’s 10th anniversary in Orlando,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of Community Relations and Minority Business Development for the Walt Disney World Resort in a press release back in March. “Disney has a longstanding relationship with UCF and we are excited to host the event in the Knights’ stadium.”
This year both competing schools will be making their debut in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, North Carolina A&T State University representing the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), and Alabama A&M of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).
“We are thrilled to have North Carolina A&T State University and Alabama A&M University making their MEAC/SWAC Challenge debuts in our 10th anniversary game,” said Pete Derzis, senior vice president and general manager, ESPN Regional Television in a press release. “UCF’s Bright House Networks Stadium will serve as a wonderful venue, allowing us to give our student-athletes and fans an experience to remember for a long time.”
“More Than a Game” is truly the case at this event as it will host a high school career seminar, a parade, and a Legends’ Reception.
Possibly considered the most highly-anticipated event of the entire weekend is the Halftime Battle of the Bands, showcasing two of the finest HBCU Marching Ensembles.
The North Carolina A&T State’s “Blue and Gold Marching Machine” and Alabama A&M’s “Marching Maroon and White” will bring on the beat after the game as well for the 5th Quarter Battle of The Bands.
The game will kick off and will be broadcasted on ESPN at 11:45 a.m. ET. Tickets to the 2014 MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney are now available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased on through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com , or via phone1-800-745-3000 for groups of 10 or more.