The classic matchup between two Louisiana HBCUs – Grambling State University and Southern University at the 50th annual Bayou Classic kicks off Thursday through Saturday. Grambling State President Rick Gallot says the Classic is a celebration of football and family surrounding Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
“So many families have folks went to Grambling. Those who went to Southern. And on that one day they fall out and everybody kind of comes back together. The other 364 days we’re all figuring out how we work to advance higher education.”
More than 200,000 people travel to New Orleans to attend the big game and events. The Bayou Classic is an annual rivalry that dates back to 1974 when the game was first held in New Orleans. Gallot says it drives attention from across the country on what happens in New Orleans the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
“Just last week I accompanies five cyber security students from Grambling. We were at Harvard and MIT. And one of the deans from Harvard asked, “Are you guys ready for the Bayou Classic.”
Traditionally fans expect a Greek Show, a Battle of the Bands, a fan festival, and a Classic parade. Gallot says game sponsorship provides a financial impact for each prospective university toward advancing higher education.
“Each brand adds an additional amount of money that we’re able to take back to Baton Rouge and to Grambling for our students. As much as this is about a football game, we’re going to be counting net revenue going back to our respective institutions.”
Tickets for the 50th Annual Bayou Classic can be purchased at www.mybayouclassic.com.
Comments