Nassau, Bahamas – There were over 8,000 tickets sold at this past weekend’s HBCUX Classic – the first-ever American college football game held in The Bahamas.
The game, held at the Thomas A. Robinson stadium, saw Texas State University (TSU) and Central State University (CSU) square off.
But in the end, TSU defeated CSU 30-16.
TSU player Daveonn Porter said he was pleased to be in The Bahamas playing the game he loves.
“We dominated the game. I love being in The Bahamas and I’m so glad that so many of our fans came to show their support,” he said.
“I hope to come back here real soon.”
Head Coach Darrell Asberry said it was a wonderful experience to play football in The Bahamas but it was difficult not to be tempted by the sun, sand and sea.
“We’ve had a great time. We enjoyed the weather. It was tough but they focused in and narrowed in. It took us to the fourth quarter to get our minds together. But for the rest of the trip we are going to relax and enjoy the islands,” he said.
TSU President John Rudley said he was excited to be in The Bahamas and the students were even more enthusiastic.
“It’s a great feeling that they won here in The Bahamas. Many of them have never even had the chance to travel internationally. Many of them never had passports before and so I am glad that the Bahamians got to see black college football,” he said.
CSU President Dr. Cynthia Jackson Hammond also lauded The Bahamas for the “unforgettable experience” of her students.
“It was absolutely phenomenal and it’s true what they say, in The Bahamas they do it better. Everyone rolled out the red carpet for Central State University and we hope to come back again,” she said.
HBCUX President Curtis Simmons said the organization and the Ministry of Tourism has put on a world-class event and he looks forward to bringing more events to The Bahamas.
“I think this was really special,” he said. “Many people have been out here for five hours and still haven’t gone home as yet. I think the Ministry of Tourism brought a great product that has tremendous future here in The Bahamas. What I hope to do is bring other products here that we can grow and we hope to further discussions to see how we can do that.”
HBCUX brought several activities to Nassau including a college fair held at the Melia Resort in Cable Beach, a celebrity golf game at the Ocean Club, an old school party held at Atlantis Paradise Island, a tailgate party at the Thomas A. Robinson Stadium that featured local and international artists and a battle of the bands following the well-attended game.
The HBCUX served as a prelude to the Popeyes Bahamas Bowl, which is scheduled for December 24 at the Thomas A. Robinson stadium.
