Regions Bank hosted the annual Team Luncheon at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex East Ballroom on Friday, Oct. 24. This luncheon marked the 20th time that Regions Bank hosted the event in the Magic City as team members, cheerleaders and coaches from both Alabama State University and Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University shared in the festivities.
The luncheon recognized players, coaches, and corporate partners from both institutions ahead of the nation’s largest historically Black college and university (HBCU) football rivalry, the 84th Amazon Magic City Classic presented by Coca-Cola.
“This is a time to celebrate two proud institutions and the 84-year history of the Magic City Classic,” President of Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University Daniel K. Wims, Ph.D., said. “It is a weekend for family, camaraderie and joy. In times like these, we need moments that remind us to celebrate life.”
Regions Bank continued its tradition of supporting both universities as the event opened with a welcome from Deno Posey, executive vice president of Enterprise Operations and Strategic Innovation partner with Regions Bank, who also served as master of ceremonies.
“We are thrilled to have you here today to kick off another exciting chapter of this legendary rivalry,” Posey said. “The Amazon Magic City Classic continues to hold its title as the largest HBCU Classic in the nation, and that milestone has been reached together through the unwavering support of our incredible corporate partners.”
At the head table sat Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin; Alabama State University Vice President and Athletic Director Jason Cable, Ph.D.; Alabama State head football coach Eddie Robinson Jr.; Deno Posey of Regions Bank; keynote speaker Chuck Henderson, chief executive officer of the American Diabetes Association; Alabama A&M University head football coach Sam Shade; Alabama A&M University Athletic Director Paul A. Bryant, Ed.D.; Ali Stephens of Amazon; Pam Cook of Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc.; and Chaplain Jonathon Givens.
Woodfin offered greetings and thanked both universities for their continued partnership with the City of Birmingham.
Henderson, delivered the keynote address focusing on leadership and health awareness. He shared his personal journey and spoke about the organization’s mission, highlighting how maintaining physical health plays a key role in achieving lasting success.
“We must take care of ourselves, our families and our communities,” Henderson said. “Health is the foundation that allows us to compete, achieve and give back.”
Following the keynote, Cook presented the Coca-Cola Scholar-Athlete Awards, honoring Cameron Smith of Alabama State University and Miles Parker of Alabama A&M University for excellence in academics, leadership and character.
The program continued with senior recognitions presented by Regions Bank Vice President for Community Relations Floresha Watkins and Amazon Director Ali Stephens. Shade introduced senior football players and cheerleaders from Alabama A&M University, followed by Robinson, who recognized Alabama State’s senior athletes. The presentation concluded with Coach Porsha Redd, Alabama State University cheerleading coach, introducing their senior cheerleader, who was also honored for dedication and spirit.
Cable said the luncheon represents continued progress and partnership.
“This event shows commitment,” he said. “Regions Bank, Amazon, and Coca-Cola have made an investment in HBCUs by supporting this Classic and both universities. It is important to give, to receive, and to grow together.”
Bryant, expanded on the meaning of the Classic and its impact on both institutions.
“This event is bigger than football,” he said. “It is about showing the strength of our institutions, our students, and the relationships that keep this tradition alive year after year. The Classic gives our student-athletes a stage to represent excellence, to network with sponsors, and to witness what partnership looks like when corporations, universities, and communities come together for a common goal.”
Corporate sponsors shared that sentiment. Wesley Caine, an on-premise sales manager for Coca-Cola United, attended his first Magic City Classic and called it unforgettable. “The passion surrounding this event is incredible,” he said. “To Hornet Nation, I would say believe in yourself. The future is bright, and take it one day at a time.”
Alabama A&M University’s Assistant Athletic Director for Communications, Brian Howard, said the Magic City Classic remains unmatched in scope and spirit.
“I have worked several HBCU classics, but nothing compares to the Magic City Classic,” Howard said. “It is more than a rivalry. Each year it feels bigger and more meaningful.”
Student-athletes also shared their excitement about representing Alabama State University. Linebacker Grandy DeGraffenried, a sophomore psychology major, said the game’s tradition motivates him to perform his best.
“The historic value of this game is amazing,” he said. “It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and we want to dominate every chance we get and win.”
Eric Tarrant, a sophomore psychology major, said the Classic brings unmatched energy.
“Classic week is full of energy,” he said. “To my fellow Hornets, stay focused and stick to your own routine. That is how you finish strong.”
Both coaches closed the luncheon with brief remarks thanking their players, staff, and supporters as anticipation for Saturday’s matchup continued to build.
