Sports

TSU Breaks Ground with Historic Ice Hockey Program

Published

1 year ago

July 16, 2024

Tennessee State University (TSU) is set to make history as the first historically Black college and university (HBCU) to introduce an ice hockey program. This landmark initiative, announced in June 2023, marks a significant expansion in TSU’s athletic offerings and underscores the university’s commitment to broadening opportunities for its students.

A Historic First for HBCUs

TSU’s decision to add ice hockey to its sports roster is a bold and pioneering move in the realm of collegiate athletics. The program, set to launch in 2024, will begin as a men’s club team with aspirations to evolve into a Division I program that includes both men’s and women’s teams. This initiative comes after a comprehensive feasibility study funded by the NHL and the NHLPA’s Industry Growth Fund in 2021, which evaluated the financial, logistical, and infrastructural requirements for establishing a hockey team at TSU (Tennessee State University) (HBCU Buzz).

Leadership and Vision

The appointment of Duanté Abercrombie as the head coach of the TSU men’s hockey team is a testament to the university’s dedication to excellence and diversity. Abercrombie brings a wealth of experience from his tenure with the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs organization, where he played a key role in player development and coaching. His background and involvement in various NHL BIPOC initiatives align with TSU’s mission to break barriers and promote inclusivity in sports (Tennessee State University) (NHL).

“I am incredibly excited to embark on building this program, supported by God, my family, TSU students, alumni, and all those eagerly awaiting this moment,” said Abercrombie. “I firmly believe that one day, TSU will be recognized not only as a powerhouse on the ice but also as a program whose student-athletes leave a profound legacy on the world” (Tennessee State University).

Collaboration and Support

TSU’s hockey program is a collaborative effort involving key partnerships with the NHL, the NHLPA, and the Nashville Predators. These partnerships are crucial in providing the necessary resources and support to ensure the program’s success. The Nashville Predators, in particular, have been instrumental in fostering the growth of hockey in Tennessee and are enthusiastic supporters of TSU’s new initiative.

“We are thrilled whenever we have a chance to add any hockey program at the collegiate level, but to be able to announce the addition of club hockey at Tennessee State University is truly special,” said Kevin Westgarth, NHL Vice President of Hockey Development & Strategic Collaboration (NHL).

Expanding Opportunities

TSU’s introduction of ice hockey is part of a broader trend among HBCUs to diversify their athletic programs by incorporating non-traditional sports. This move follows similar initiatives by other HBCUs, such as Fisk University’s women’s gymnastics team and Hampton University’s men’s lacrosse team. These programs aim to provide students with unique opportunities and to foster greater diversity in sports traditionally dominated by non-minority athletes (HBCU Buzz).

A New Chapter for TSU

As TSU embarks on this historic journey, the university community and supporters are optimistic about the future. The hockey program represents not only a new athletic opportunity but also a chance to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans. With strong leadership, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, TSU’s hockey team is poised to make a significant impact on and off the ice.

In the words of TSU President Glenda Glover, “Bringing ice hockey to Tennessee State University is a part of our continued commitment to provide our students with new opportunities and to broaden new interests in areas where they have traditionally had limited or no access” (HBCU Buzz).

TSU’s groundbreaking hockey program is more than just a new sport—it’s a milestone in the university’s storied history and a beacon of progress and inclusivity in collegiate athletics.

HBCU ORIGINAL

🏈 Lincoln University (PA) Lions Fall 4-0 to Chestnut Hill, But Display Heart and Resilience

Published

2 days ago

October 19, 2025

HBCU ORIGINAL

Final Score: Chestnut Hill 4, Lincoln (PA) 0

Scoring Summary:

20:21 – Chelsea Ritter (CHC) PENALTY KICK GOAL
33:29 – Abigail Collins (CHC), Assist: Shaina Klos
68:11 – Abigail Collins (CHC)
86:57 – Rebecca Dalton (CHC), Assist: Bryce Westervelt

Key Lincoln Stats:

Shots on Goal: 1
Saves: 10 (Lourraine De Luna)
Corner Kicks: 0
Fouls: 4

Game Recap:
Lincoln University (PA) faced a tough opponent in Chestnut Hill, but the Lions never gave up. Keeper Lourraine De Luna was phenomenal, racking up 10 saves to keep her team in the fight. Despite falling 4-0, Lincoln showed HBCU pride, resilience, and determination, pushing hard on every possession and displaying flashes of offensive potential.

Chestnut Hill dominated possession, but Lincoln’s defense and effort underlined the team’s commitment to growth and representing the HBCU community. The Lions continue to fight for their first win of the season, gaining valuable experience along the way.

HBCU Original was on the scene to capture every save, tackle, and moment of pride. 🎥🔥

HBCU ORIGINAL

Delaware State Falls Short vs. Monmouth, 49–38

Published

2 weeks ago

October 4, 2025

HBCU ORIGINAL

The Hornets showed heart from start to finish, going toe-to-toe with Monmouth in a high-scoring contest that ended 49–38. Despite the loss, Delaware State displayed major offensive firepower and resilience on the road.

🏈 Game Highlights:

Marquis Gillis was unstoppable on the ground, rushing for 132 yards and a touchdown, setting the tone early for the Hornets’ offense.
Quarterback James Jones powered in a short rushing score, keeping the Hornets within striking distance.
The Hornet defense battled to contain a hot Monmouth offense led by Derek Robertson, who threw for four touchdowns — but Delaware State never backed down.

🔥 What’s Next:
Delaware State looks to carry this momentum into MEAC play, building on its offensive rhythm and toughness heading into the next matchup.

#MEACFootball #DelState #HBCUFootball #HornetPride #HBCUOriginal

Sports

“Morgan State Comes Back to Defeat North Carolina Central University in Five-Set Thriller”

Published

2 weeks ago

October 4, 2025

HBCU ORIGINAL

BALTIMORE, Md. (Oct. 1, 2025) – The Morgan State volleyball team welcomed North Carolina Central (NCCU) to Hill Field House on Friday, Oct. 3 for a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) matchup at 6 p.m. The game was Morgan State’s ‘Pink Out’ match, with fans encouraged to wear pink in support.

Morgan State came into the match at 4-8 overall, 1-1 MEAC, looking to rebound from a heartbreaking 3-2 loss at Howard. The Bears had fallen behind 2-0 before dropping the final three sets, including a narrow 15-12 defeat in the fifth.

Key performances vs. Howard:

Daniela Ferreira: career-high 23 kills
Isabelle Brown: 43 assists
Hanna Nemeth: 13 digs
Jada Williams: seven blocks
Aubrey Wilson: five blocks

NCCU (4-10, 1-1 MEAC) entered the contest on a two-match losing streak, including a 3-0 road loss at Charleston Southern. Standouts included Summer Campbell (four kills), Tayah Little and Allyson Rouse (three kills each), Loren Johnson (12 digs), and Neira Joldic (eight assists).

Series History:

NCCU leads the all-time series 7-4, winning seven of the last eight meetings.
Last season, the teams split the series: Morgan State swept at home (10/4/24) and NCCU won in five sets on the road (11/1/24).

Match Result: October 3, 2025

Morgan State pulled off a thrilling five-set victory over NCCU, winning 3-2.

Set Scores: 18-25, 19-25, 25-22, 25-19, 15-11

Impact on the Teams:

Morgan State: Record improves to 2-1 MEAC, 5-8 overall.
NCCU: Falls to 1-2 MEAC, 4-11 overall.

The Bears showed resilience coming back from a 0-2 deficit to claim the win! 💪

Player Highlights & Milestones

Jada Williams: Moved into 7th on Morgan State’s all-time blocks list with 247 career blocks.
Aubrey Wilson: Reached 100 career blocks, currently 17th in program history.
Isabelle Brown: Freshman setter named MEAC Setter of the Week, directing Morgan’s offense with 107 assists over three matches.

Looking Ahead

Morgan State will host South Carolina State in a MEAC match on Sunday, Oct. 5. First serve is at 1 p.m. at Hill Field House.

HBCU ORIGINAL

“Rivalry on Fire: Morehouse Battles Howard at MetLife!”

Published

2 months ago

September 5, 2025

HBCU ORIGINAL

Saturday, September 13, 2025 – 01:00 PM

Get ready for an electrifying showdown as the HBCU NY Football Classic returns to MetLife Stadium on Saturday, September 13, 2025!

This premier HBCU football event in the Northeast promises heart-pounding action as Morehouse College takes on Howard University. Two of the nation’s most storied programs will clash on the gridiron, each vying for victory and bragging rights in front of thousands of passionate fans.

Fans can expect a full day of excitement, from pre-game festivities and marching band performances to halftime entertainment that celebrates HBCU culture and tradition. The rivalry is fierce, the stakes are high, and the energy in the stadium is bound to be unforgettable.

Don’t miss your chance to witness history in the making at the HBCU NY Football Classic – where tradition, pride, and football excellence collide!

HBCU ORIGINAL

Dillard’s Davison, Wilberforce’s Howard, and Wiley’s Russell Claim Week 1 HBCUAC Cross Country Honors

Published

2 months ago

September 5, 2025

HBCU ORIGINAL

NEW ORLEANS – September 2, 2025 – The Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) announced its Week 1 cross country weekly awards, recognizing standout performances from August 25-31.

Women’s Honors:
Dillard University freshman Karlise Davison made a sensational debut, earning both Runner of the Week and Freshman of the Week honors. Davison broke the Dillard four-kilometer school record, cementing herself as a rising star in the HBCUAC women’s cross country scene. Her record-setting performance has set high expectations for the season ahead.

Men’s Honors:
On the men’s side, Wilberforce University freshman Skyaqui Howard was named Runner and Freshman of the Week after leading the Bulldogs at the Wilberforce Invitational. In his first collegiate meet, Howard clocked 17:56.7, finishing seventh among 23 competitors from NCAA Division II and NCCAA programs.

Wiley University’s John Russell, a transfer from Ranger College, claimed Newcomer of the Week following his performance at Texas Christian University’s John MacKenzie Invitational. Competing against NCAA Division I athletes from TCU, Texas A&M, and Tarleton State, Russell completed the five-kilometer course in 19:38, showcasing his readiness to contribute at the HBCUAC level.

Additional men’s weekly nominees included Quante Ferguson (Talladega), Javoun Goldsby (Wiley), Earl Hurd Jr. (Wiley), Phillip Isaac (Dillard), and K’Mon Washington (Dillard), highlighting the depth of talent across the conference.

The HBCUAC continues to spotlight emerging athletes and exceptional performances in cross country, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.