The Sept. 27 meeting between Alabama State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University was more than a football game.

At Bragg Memorial Stadium, Hornet alumni, students, families, and future Hornets came together under bright sunshine and passing showers to celebrate, reconnect, and show their pride. The air was filled with the smell of barbecue, the sound of music, and the laughter of generations who gathered in fellowship. From the class of 1980 to today’s students, the Hornet Nation proved once again that its spirit endures.

Among the alumni reflecting on the day, Patty Abner, a 1981 graduate, said this year’s game stood out from her past visits.

“The turnout was great,” Abner said. “It is always good to see so many Hornets come together, support the team, and represent Alabama State.”

That same spirit of pride was shared by Cynthia Handy, who received her master’s degree in 1985. She said the growth of the crowd was unmistakable.

“I think it is awesome,” Handy said. “It feels larger than the last time I was here. My message to the graduating class would be, give back to ASU.”

Lakeisha Matthews, who graduated in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree, experienced her first matchup between the two institutions this year and said she was inspired by the atmosphere.

“I am loving it,” Matthews said. “I will definitely come back again. My message to today’s students is simple, be proud, be Black, and be proud.”

For others, the rivalry was a chance to relive the joy of HBCU traditions. LaWanda Taylor, a 1997 biology graduate, said she came for the energy and the connection.

“I came for the excitement and the HBCU atmosphere,” Taylor said. “To our Hornets, I would say, keep going, and the world is yours.”

Cheryl Barrow, a 1980 graduate in business and marketing, took her first look at Florida A&M’s campus during the visit.

“They have a beautiful campus, big and impressive,” Barrow said. “But my advice is to support your local HBCU. Be a season ticket holder like I am, and go to all the events you can.”

Tyrin Moorer, a recent university graduate in finance and the grandson of a Florida A&M graduate, said the game carried personal meaning.

“It feels great,” Moorer said. “As the grandson of a Rattler and now a Hornet, I get to see both sides of my family represented. This rivalry shows why Alabama State is the greatest HBCU in the land.”

Students joined alumni in celebrating the occasion. Lauren Thomas, a junior biology pre-health major, described the tailgating as “a great event” that united alumni and students. “This was my first time, and I was very pleased,” Thomas said. “For those who missed it, they need to come to the next one.”

Morgan Evans, a sophomore social work major, agreed, saying she came for the energy as much as the football.

“I love football games and the atmosphere they bring,” Evans said. “To the Hornets who did not come, I would ask, why not? It is fun, it is live, and it is a great place to network.”

Kiana Cannon, a 1999 graduate in criminal justice, reflected on her choice to attend the university while visiting FAMU’s campus.

“I toured Florida A&M before deciding on a college, but when I visited ASU, I knew it was home,” Cannon said. “At the university, it is family-oriented. Professors care, and the friendships you make last a lifetime. I am proud to see the campus grow, and I am already planting the seed in the next generation, my daughter is already cheering for Alabama State.”

The celebration carried on into the evening, with Hornets of all ages dancing, singing, and cheering together as the Hornet football team defeated Florida A&M 42 to 14. For those who made the trip, it was more than a victory on the field. It was a celebration of camaraderie, tradition, and the pride that binds the Hornet family across generations.