News Summary
Augusta is set to host the Good Trouble Heritage Football Classic featuring Fort Valley State and Savannah State universities. This event marks a revival of HBCU traditions in the city. Attendees can expect a spirited atmosphere at Lucy Craft Laney Stadium, with strong community involvement and the inclusion of local school players. The game will also be broadcast live on ESPN+, celebrating HBCU heritage and community pride.
Augusta, Georgia is set to host the Good Trouble Heritage Football Classic, an exciting matchup featuring two historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Fort Valley State University and Savannah State University. This highly-anticipated event is scheduled for 3 p.m. on October 18 and will take place at the historic Lucy Craft Laney Stadium.
This year’s classic marks a revival of a long-standing tradition that has not taken place in Augusta in recent years. The clash of these two HBCU football programs will attract not just alumni and fans but also local communities eager to engage with the spirit of college football.
Attending the classic will be Laney head coach Ronnie Baker, who will witness the event from the stands this time. Previously, he coached during similar classics at fellow HBCU Benedict College in 2016 and has been part of past games with Albany State at the same venue. His experience contributes to the nostalgia surrounding the event, highlighting the ongoing connection of HBCU football in the area.
The decision to continue hosting the classic at Laney Stadium was influenced by several factors, including its vibrant atmosphere, proximity to downtown Augusta, stadium capacity suitable for college audiences, and ample availability of parking space. These attributes make it an ideal venue for both players and spectators alike.
This year’s classic will feature rosters that include five players each from the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), hailing from local schools such as T.W. Josey, Grovetown, Washington-Wilkes, and Washington County. This inclusion allows local youth to see their peers compete at a high level, inspiring them to envision futures in sports and education.
The Good Trouble Heritage Football Classic will also be broadcasted live on ESPN+, providing extended access to fans who are unable to attend in person. This neutral-site game not only showcases athletic talent but is also a celebration of heritage and community pride.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in HBCU events, reflected in the increasing attendance and support from alumni and community members. By bringing back the classic, Augusta aims to foster a renewed sense of pride and connectivity among the local educational institutions and their supporters. This event presents more than just a football game; it brings together the community in celebration of culture, history, and sportsmanship.
The Good Trouble Heritage Football Classic stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of HBCU football and its significant role in American sports history. With the players, coaches, and community members all eager to participate, this classic is sure to be a highlight of the autumn season in Augusta. As the kickoff approaches, excitement builds for a day filled with thrilling football, camaraderie, and the celebration of shared heritage.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: HBCU Football Returns to Augusta
- Wikipedia: Historically Black Colleges and Universities
- WFXG: Destination Augusta and Economic Impacts
- Google Search: College Football History
- WJCL: Savannah State Football Schedule
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- WTOC: Savannah State 2025 Football Schedule
- Google News: HBCU Football
- Vibe: HBCU Fall Homecoming and Football Classic Schedule
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
