Courtesy of Maxwell Football Club
PHILADELPHIA, PA– The Maxwell Football Club (MFC), home to several of college football’s most prestigious awards including the Maxwell, Chuck Bednarik, and George Munger awards, proudly announces the creation of the Club’s HBCU Contributions to Football Award which will be presented annually to an outstanding contributor from a historically black college, athletic department, football program or conference.
HBCU football was established in the late 19th century with the first game being held on December 27, 1892, between Biddle College and Livingstone College. There are currently 21 football programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) at the FCS level. FCS HBCU football programs primarily play in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) or the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). There are also 3 FCS schools, North Carolina A&T State University (CAA), Hampton University (CAA), and Tennessee State (OVC) which play in non-HBCU conferences. At the Division II level, there are HBCU teams participating in the CIAA and SIAC conferences. The 2024 HBCU football season begins with the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge on Saturday, August 24th, and concludes with the champion being crowned at the Cricket Celebration Bowl on Saturday, December 14th.
“The opportunity to continue the Maxwell Club’s mission of recognizing excellence in all aspects of football, and amplifying the direct contributions that align with the rich history of HBCU football is something very special. For over 130 years HBCU institutions and football programs have provided incredible opportunities for student-athletes to pursue college educations and opportunities on the football field. So many legendary figures have built this tremendous legacy and contributed to the rich fabric of HBCU football. We are truly honored to have the chance to help tell the story of the players, coaches, and administrators who have built this legacy.” — Mark Wolpert — Executive Director — Maxwell Football Club.
“The Maxwell Football Club’s HBCU Contribution to Football Award is a testament to the invaluable impact that individuals from Historically Black Colleges and Universities have made on the game of college football. Establishing this prestigious award and recognizing their contributions is not just honoring their achievements, but also celebrating the rich history and talent that have shaped the sport we love.” John Grant — Executive Director — ESPN Events — Cricket Celebration Bowl – Cricket MEAC SWAC Challenge Kickoff
The inaugural MFC Contributions to HBCU Football Award will be presented on Friday, March 14, 2025, at the 88th Maxwell Awards which will be held at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta Georgia.