Boards of trustee members, presidents, coaches, corporate partners, alumni, friends and fans of Alabama State University and Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University assembled at the Coca-Cola United Bottling Company in Birmingham, Ala. for the Magic City Classic Press Conference on Wednesday, Oct. 23.

The conference highlighted the classic’s cultural significance, economic impact, and the storied football rivalry between Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University.

Perren King, Executive Director of the Magic City Classic, reinforced the focus on the event’s central purpose:  supporting these two historic historically Black universities.

“Keep it in your focus as part of your Classic weekend,” he said, “remembering that these two deserving HBCUs are the reason for this great event.”

King also highlighted the anticipated economic impact, noting, “We are expecting over 200,000 people to show up in some way to celebrate this amazing event, contributing $23 million worth of economic impact.”

Alabama State University Head Coach Eddie Robinson Jr. stressed the unique importance of the Classic beyond typical conference rivalries. “This is not about the SWAC East or a SWAC Championship. This is the Classic. We understand why we are here, and everyone is here to watch a great football game.”

Connell Maynor, head coach of Alabama A&M, responded with playful competitiveness, expressing his desire to reclaim victory after two years of Alabama State winning.

“It is the biggest game of the season, with bragging rights for a year,” Maynor said. “Eddie had them for the last two years, so Eddie, you have had it long enough, brother. You are a good man and a good coach, but it is time to bring it back home.”

Mayor Randall Woodfin emphasized the importance of the Classic and the legacy it represents. “I am a proud HBCU graduate myself, and what you are doing, what you are representing, what you are putting on for, means a lot to many people,” Woodfin said. “We look forward to the next 83 years.”

Mike Suco, President and CEO of Coca-Cola United Bottling Company, expressed his excitement about supporting the rivalry. “We are so happy to support these two amazing institutions, Alabama State and Alabama A&M, as they compete in what I believe is one of the greatest rivalries in all of college football.”

Suco also introduced a new initiative aimed at environmental sustainability during the event. “We are proud to announce the Osprey Initiative, which will have a positive environmental impact. Recycling bins will be placed around the stadium and tailgate areas to help ensure this event contributes to a greener future.”

Disney on the Yard, an initiative created by Disney to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and promote diversity within the company, made its debut at the Magic City Classic this year. The program, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, provides internships, mentorships, and sponsorship opportunities while fostering a sense of community among Disney employees who are HBCU alumni or connected to HBCU culture.

“We are beyond excited to be at the Magic City Classic for the first time ever,” said Dana Lee Libby, Disney on the Yard Representative, expressing the company’s excitement about being part of the iconic event for the first time.

She continued.

“I have the esteemed honor of bringing the Disney Magic to the Magic City Classic. Disney on the Yard began during COVID, when the world was shut down and we were navigating our new normal. Disney wanted to create a space of fellowship for our cast members, particularly those who are HBCU alumni or resonate with HBCUs and the Divine Nine. It grew into a company-wide commitment, both internally and externally, with full support from our chief diversity officer. This commitment includes internships, mentorships, sponsorships, and representation across our many brands.

Dale Thornton, a representative from McDonald’s, reflected on the event’s evolution.

“Looking around, I see how this has changed since the first press conference I attended,” Thornton said. “This is Black excellence. This is what we are here for. Yes, you are going to play football, but when you return to your schools on Sunday, the support continues to ensure we have the 84th, 100th, or 140th Classic.