MIAMI — Florida International University kicks off its football season Friday night against Bethune-Cookman at Pitbull Stadium as part of the Orange Blossom Classic festivities.
Local 10’s Caroline Coles, who reported from Pitbull Stadium, said the atmosphere was lively despite intermittent rain.
“The tailgate party is going on right now,” she said. “People are out here celebrating the big, big week … you see the Howard University marching band, the Showtime band, giving us a taste of what to expect this weekend.”
Coles added that the event is “a huge deal” for HBCU pride, culture, and legacy. “Howard decides to come on FIU campus again to give us a taste of what to expect this weekend.”
The Panthers will take the field at 7 p.m. for their first game of the season, but for many attendees, the weekend is about more than football.
Jay, a junior and member of the Howard University marching band, shared his excitement.
“I’m doing wonderfully, thank you so much for having me. You know, it’s just an honor and a pleasure to be able to be here doing what I love,” he said.
Asked about the experience of participating in the Orange Blossom Classic, Jay said:
“I mean, I’m gonna be real. I don’t know much about the tradition and the history, but you know, I’m honored to be a small piece … to be here, to be able to play, doing the stuff that I love so much and the people that I love so much. It’s really an honor and a pleasure," he said.
The Orange Blossom Classic culminates with Florida F&M vs. Howard University at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday at 4 p.m.
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