Rochester Reporter

The City of Rochester has announced the inaugural Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic Weekend of Hope. Mayor Malik D. Evans was joined by Baldwin Richardson Foods President & CEO Erin Tolefree and Rochester Police Department Deputy Chief Keith Stith to unveil the event.

"We're thrilled to bring an HBCU Football Classic to Rochester,” said Mayor Evans. “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."

The football game will take place on Saturday, September 21, featuring Central State University (Ohio) Marauders against Albany State (Georgia) Rams. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Rochester Community Sports Complex located at 460 Oak Street.

Game day festivities begin at 9 a.m. with a tailgate event included in the ticket price. Following the game, there will be a “5th quarter” Battle of the Bands featuring Central State’s Invincible Marching Marauders and Albany State’s Marching Rams Show Band.

The Weekend of Hope is supported by various sponsors, including title sponsor Baldwin Richardson Foods. The event will officially be named “Baldwin Richardson Foods Presents the Frederick Douglass HBCU Classic Weekend of Hope.”

“Baldwin Richardson Foods is dedicated to creating impact and removing barriers,” said Erin Tolefree. “This sponsorship aligns with our commitment to providing children with opportunities and educational programs. And, as an HBCU alumna, I am thrilled to connect Rochester students to the unique opportunities HBCUs provide.”

The Weekend of Hope spans from Thursday, September 19 through Sunday, September 22 and includes several invitation-only events for City of Rochester high school students to interact with HBCU alumni, athletic staff, players, and marching bands. Public events include an Alumni Mixer at Innovative Field and Taste of Rochester Classic Crawl highlighting Black businesses.

Game-day tickets are priced at $25 each and are available now. Public events do not require paid tickets.