Latest news with #Rattlers
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
FAMU football, Howard to settle unfinished business in Orange Blossom Classic showdown
The Florida A&M and Howard football rivalry will turn a new page in three months. On Saturday, Aug. 30, the Rattlers and the Bison are set to face off in Week 1's Orange Blossom Classic in Miami Gardens' Hard Rock Stadium to kick off the 2025 season. Advertisement FAMU versus Howard is a rematch of the 2023 Celebration Bowl, which determined the Black College Football National Champion. The Rattlers won the nail-biter in Atlanta, 30-26, to capture the program's 16th Black College Football National Championship in December 2023. Two Florida A&M University flags fly in the pre-game tailgate area outside Hard Rock Stadium before the Orange Blossom Classic in Miami Gardens, Fla. Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021. Second-year FAMU head coach James Colzie III served as the Rattlers' assistant head coach and cornerbacks coach during the Celebration Bowl game two years ago. Howard's Larry Scott was in his fourth year leading the program during the Bison's Black College National Championship runner-up finish. This year's Orange Blossom Classic is also a nod to the game's beginnings when FAMU defeated Howard 9-6 in the 1933 inception. The teams also met in the 1974 Orange Blossom Classic, with FAMU beating Howard again, 17-13. Advertisement 'It's a chance to honor the legends who paved the way and allows us to write our chapter in the story of Black College Football,' Colzie said at the Orange Blossom Classic Kickoff Press Conference on Wednesday, May 21. 'Playing Howard is something we look forward to. Hopefully, we can bring that same excitement that we brought from the 2023 Celebration Bowl.' In the FAMU versus Howard Celebration Bowl matchup, the Bison allowed the Rattlers to storm back from a 14-0 deficit. All-time, the Rattlers lead the Bison 30-11 dating back to their first matchup in 1933. 'We're fired up. Revenge is the right word,' Scott said. 'We left some luggage in Atlanta, but lo and behold, American Airlines shifted to Miami, Florida, and we're here to pick it up.' Advertisement The Orange Blossom Classic ran from 1933 before being discontinued in 1978, and was considered the de facto Black College National Championship during its first run. The game was revived in 2021, when FAMU and Jackson State met for three consecutive seasons. Sep 7, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Florida A&M Rattlers head coach James Colzie III watches from the sideline against the Miami Hurricanes during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images The Rattlers didn't participate in the 2024 Orange Blossom Classic, which saw Alabama State and North Carolina Central compete. However, FAMU still played in Miami last season, as it faced the Miami Hurricanes in a Week 2 guarantee game. FAMU has a large contingent of alums in Miami. Howard also has a fair number of graduates in the South Florida area. Advertisement 'This has been an ongoing process since we didn't play last year,' said Colzie, a Miami native. 'Our fanbase down here is going to be strong. Not playing in it last year, and then getting a chance to come back and play in it again ― it's for everybody affiliated with our university, having the opportunity to open up in South Florida. They want to make sure we come here win, play well, and then move on to the next week. 'Hopefully, we're able to provide that.' FAMU vs Howard in the Orange Blossom Classic a significant HBCU football matchup Florida A&M University's Marching 100 perform during halftime of the Orange Blossom Classic between Florida A&M University and Jackson State University at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021. FAMU typically plays in multiple HBCU classic games per football season. Advertisement For example, the Rattlers participated in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge and the Florida Classic last season. It will return to the usual Orange Blossom Classic and Florida Classic lineup this year. The Rattlers utilize those premium games as a recruiting tool. Colzie has brought about 30-35 new players to the team. 'Some of our guys chose FAMU to play in this game. We have some guys that aren't used to playing in this environment,' Colzie said. 'We're taking it day by day, getting our guys ready for the football game.' FAMU football returns from a 7-5 season in 2024. Howard went 4-8 last season. Both teams look to rebound this season and could meet for another Celebration Bowl matchup as FAMU represents the Southwestern Athletic Conference. In contrast, Howard looks to come out of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. Advertisement And opening the 2025 season 1-0 could springboard FAMU or Howard into a successful year on the gridiron. 'It's going to be a great matchup of two teams fighting to win the first game of the year,' Colzie said. 'We got a pretty seasoned football team, and they're excited to play in this football game.' Florida A&M Football 2025 Schedule Week 1: Saturday, Aug. 30 ― vs. Howard (Orange Blossom Classic at Miami Garden's Hard Rock Stadium) Week 2: Saturday, Sept. 6 ― at Florida Atlantic Week 3: Saturday, Sept. 13 ― vs. Albany State Week 4: BYE/OPEN WEEK Week 5: Saturday, Sept. 27 ― vs. Alabama State (SWAC) Week 6: Saturday, Oct. 4 ― at Mississippi Valley State (SWAC) Week 7: Saturday, Oct. 11 ― vs. North Carolina Central Week 8: Saturday, Oct. 18 ― vs. Alcorn State (SWAC/Homecoming) Week 9: Saturday, Oct. 25 ― at Southern (SWAC) Week 10: Saturday, Nov. 1 ― vs. Jackson State (SWAC) Week 11: Saturday, Nov. 8 ― at Arkansas-Pine Bluff (SWAC) Week 12: Saturday, Nov. 15 ― at Alabama A&M (SWAC) Week 13: Saturday, Nov. 22 ― vs. Bethune-Cookman (SWAC/Florida Classic at Orlando's Camping World Stadium) Saturday, Nov. 29 ― NCAA FCS Playoffs Begin (If Necessary) Saturday, Dec. 6 ― SWAC Championship Game (If Necessary) Saturday, Dec. 13 ― Celebration Bowl at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium (If Necessary) Monday, Jan. 5, 2026 ― NCAA FCS National Championship Game (If Necessary) Gerald Thomas, III is a multi-time award-winning journalist for his coverage of the Florida A&M Rattlers at the Tallahassee Democrat. Follow his award-winning coverage on and contact him via email at GDThomas@ or on the app formerly known as Twitter @3peatgee. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida A&M football vs Howard Orange Blossom Classic rivalry renewed
Miami Herald
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Amid controversy, Marva Johnson named president of Florida A&M University
Florida A&M University's Board of Trustees on Friday selected telecom executive Marva Johnson as the school's next president, backing a candidate with ties to Gov. Ron DeSantis despite weeks of fierce community opposition and deepening fears of political interference at the state's only public historically Black university. Johnson, a vice president at Charter Communications and former DeSantis appointee to the Florida Board of Education, won the role in an 8-4 vote that capped a bitter, unusually contentious search process. Now, Johnson faces the daunting task of securing legitimacy with a skeptical constituency of Rattlers at FAMU. A vocal group of students, faculty members and alumni have questioned Johnson's lack of higher education experience, as well as the process that elevated her over more traditional candidates to lead one of the nation's top-ranked historically Black public institutions — particularly FAMU Chief Operating Officer Donald Palm, who emerged as the community favorite. Johnson's relationship with DeSantis — whose administration has crusaded against diversity efforts at Florida's public universities and sought to restrict how African American history is taught — has triggered raucous protests across the FAMU community in Tallahassee and nationwide. Critics question whether Johnson can safeguard FAMU in a political climate they say is increasingly hostile to its mission as an HBCU, but proponents see an advantage for the institution in her alignment with the governor and the GOP-dominated legislature. DeSantis hasn't publicly commented on the appointment, and the governor's office didn't respond to requests for comment. Johnson, who couldn't be reached for an interview, attempted to allay concerns at a public forum Wednesday. 'I'm not a Trojan Horse,' she told the crowd. 'I was not sent here to dismantle FAMU.' If approved by the state university system's Board of Governors, Johnson could make up to $750,000 a year as FAMU's president. That salary exceeds her predecessor's by more than $150,000 — and has become another flashpoint in a process that some critics argue has veered far from the university's values. 'There was a lack of intellectual depth and a gap in cultural connection that was just painfully blatant,' said board chair Kristin Harper, who voted against Johnson's selection and later had her role in contract negotiations stripped by a majority vote of the board. Johnson's appointment comes amid broader efforts by DeSantis and his allies to reshape Florida's higher education landscape, often favoring candidates with political loyalty over academic experience. If confirmed by the state university system's Board of Governors, Johnson would join a growing roster of politically aligned university presidents in Florida. Her supporters on FAMU's board argued on Friday that navigating Tallahassee's deeply partisan legislative environment requires precisely the political savvy she offers FAMU, especially at a time when the university is facing mounting threats to its state and federal funding. 'Our survival depends on how we navigate those systems,' said Jamal Brown, the board's faculty representative who voted for her nomination. 'If we don't have leadership that can operate within it, we fall further behind.' 'A recipe for disaster' But many in the university community weren't convinced. By Friday's board meeting, more than 13,000 people had signed a petition opposing her nomination. During public comments at the meeting, speakers accused the board of ignoring student and alumni voices and warned that donor support could be in jeopardy. 'When you don't have your own students, faculty and alumni behind you, no matter what relationships you have, that's a recipe for disaster,' said Will Packer, a prominent FAMU alumnus and Hollywood producer. According to Packer, several high-profile alumni including rapper Common, singer K. Michelle and comedian Roy Wood, Jr. had expressed opposition as well. Kennedy Williams, FAMU's new student body vice president, said in an interview that trustees' ultimate decision to override the will of the student body and other key stakeholders was 'unsettling.' 'The students are the heart and soul of FAMU and it's important that they feel as if they're heard,' Williams said. 'Unfortunately, they weren't today.' Tensions in the search began escalating last month after the Tallahassee Democrat reported a leaked list of finalists, sparking rumors that Johnson's name was shoehorned in late in the process. One trustee, Earnie Ellison, was forced to resign after suggesting the process be paused to address community concerns. Then, just a day before the board's Friday vote, Alan Levine — a DeSantis ally and member of both the search committee and the state Board of Governors — nominated a Tallahassee-based McDonald's franchise owner to fill the vacancy left on the board. That move, too, raised eyebrows. 'This was a hanky panky process,' said Leon County Commissioner Al Lawson, who is also an instructor at FAMU. In an interview, Levine denied political interference in the search and said rumors that Johnson was added into the running last minute were 'patently false.' He said the candidates were all qualified and endorsed Johnson's credentials, pointing to past instances of nontraditional candidates with successful university presidencies, like former Republican House Speaker John Thrasher at Florida State University. The stakes are high for FAMU, which is still reeling from past leadership controversies. Johnson's predecessor, Larry Robinson, resigned last year amid fallout from a fake $237 million donation scandal that embarrassed the school on the national stage. State Sen. Shevrin Jones (D-Miami), a FAMU alum, urged unity but acknowledged the looming friction stemming from Johnson's presidency. Jones, a former member of the Biden Administration's now-defunct HBCU Advisory Board, said that while 'FAMU is not a Fortune 500 company,' Johnson's political background could help remedy historic underfunding faced by other predominantly Black institutions. But skeptics argue that political access isn't a substitute for cultural alignment or academic vision. 'FAMU has survived far worse than this,' Jones said. 'As Marva comes in, the first order of business for her is to unite the university.'
CTV News
16-05-2025
- Sport
- CTV News
Rattlers drop home opener in record-setting fashion
Regina Watch The Vancouver Bandits set a record in beating the Saskatchewan Rattlers in the CEBL season opener.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Charlie Ward emerges as top candidate for FAMU basketball head coach opening
Could one of the greatest dual-sport athletes in college history be headed to the sidelines at Florida A&M? Florida A&M University's search for a new head basketball coach has taken a high-profile turn, as legendary Florida State star Charlie Ward has emerged as a serious candidate for the job. Following the departure of Patrick Crarey to Grambling, the Rattlers are looking to reset after a tough 9-21 season—and Ward could be the game-changer they need. Ward's name carries weight in the state of Florida. He won the 1993 Heisman Trophy as a quarterback and led Florida State to a national title. But what makes Ward a rare breed is what came next: a 12-year career in the NBA, highlighted by a nine-year run with the New York Knicks and a starting role in the 1999 NBA Finals. Despite his gridiron greatness, Ward never played in the NFL—opting instead for basketball, where he carved out a respected career in one of the world's toughest leagues. Advertisement Ward was more than just a football star—he was a point guard who dished out nearly 400 assists and still holds Florida State records for steals. His basketball IQ, leadership, and defensive prowess were hallmarks of his game, traits that could instantly elevate the culture in Tallahassee. Since retiring, he's built a solid coaching resume, leading Florida High's program and mentoring young athletes with a focus on discipline and development. He was recently named USA Basketball assistant coach for the 2025 Nike Hoop Summit. Related: Stephen A. Smith: 'I have no choice' but to consider presidential bid Ward's deep Florida ties, elite athletic background, and proven mentorship align perfectly with FAMU's goals. At a time when HBCU programs are gaining national attention, hiring someone with Ward's profile would make an immediate impact—on the court and in recruiting circles. He's not just a former pro—he's a symbol of excellence and a beacon for student-athletes who dream big. Related: Morgan Price makes history as a repeat champion FAMU has a chance to make a statement. Bringing in Charlie Ward wouldn't just fill a vacancy—it would ignite a movement. The Rattlers need more than a coach; they need a leader. And Ward might just be the perfect fit. Advertisement Related: Reality star sparks buzz by dating Morgan State hooper Related: Howard's star freshman linked to Maryland
Global News
15-05-2025
- Sport
- Global News
Revamped Saskatchewan Rattlers set to take to the floor for 2025 CEBL season
As the Saskatchewan Rattlers narrow in on the 2025 Canadian Elite Basketball League season, it's a focus on building for a group which is aiming to end two years of playoff absences. Forward Anthony Tsegakele will be back for a fourth season in Saskatchewan, but hasn't tasted post-season basketball since his first year with the Rattlers in 2022. 'I wouldn't say that maybe we've fallen off,' said Tsegakele. 'I think we just need to keep on building our foundation, being able to grind it out throughout the season and getting those little, gritty wins.' From the last time they left the court in Montreal last July to now, the Rattlers are a much different team both throughout the roster and behind the bench. It's no surprise given how turbulent last season was for the franchise, beginning the year with a 5-2 record to sit first place in the Western Conference. Story continues below advertisement What followed was a mass exodus of their starting lineup with their top-four scorers in Jalen Harris, Elijah Harkless, Grant Basille and Maurice Calhoo all departing the organization for opportunities elsewhere. Despite acquiring reigning CEBL MVP Teddy Allen shortly after, the Rattlers would go on to lose 12 of their final 13 games of the season to tumble into last place in the conference and finish with a 6-14 record. 'Everyone needs to stay professional,' said Tsegakele. 'You never know when a guy might leave, you never know… obviously knock on wood a guy might get injured and then people need to step up. 'I think we saw that with a couple guys last year and I think that's just a mindset that everybody should adapt.' Get daily National news Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. Sign up for daily National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy The Rattlers did not bring back head coach Larry Abney this summer, instead choosing to promote longtime assistant coach Eric Magdanz who will be making his CEBL head coaching debut. As well, Saskatchewan promoted Rob Lovelace to the role of lead assistant coach alongside associate coach Steve Burrows. 'Yeah it's going to be a little bit different,' said Lovelace. 'You'll see the make up of these guys are a good group of hard-nosed, defensive guys. That's what the team was after this year. They're athletic, just noticed a few of these guys can just really get up and down and really fly around.' Story continues below advertisement 1:47 Saskatchewan Rattlers add three Canada West stars in 2025 CEBL Draft Including Tsegakele, only four Rattlers have returned for the 2025 season from last year's roster with Cody John, Jaden Bediako and Isaac Simon back wearing the green and gold. That's given way for newcomers like Nate Pierre-Louis to make an impact, signed to the roster in the off-season. 'It was one of the only teams this summer that truly believed in me,' said Pierre-Louis. 'I just went where I was loved. I prayed about it and the opportunity came, it was a quick yes. 'I was on board right away.' Pierre-Louis is one of two players who are coming off stints in the NBA G League, suiting up for the South Bay Lakers, Long Island Nets and Iowa Wolves before joining the Rattlers. Story continues below advertisement According to Lovelace, Pierre-Louis has been a welcome addition to the roster and is expecting big performances out of the guard in 2025. 'Nate's been great, defensively,' said Lovelace. 'I'm a defensive guy, so I noticed him right off the get-go defensively and how strong he is. Even the way he's communicating right now with the guys.' Joining a young roster featuring recent Canada West draft picks in Simon, Declan Peterson and Easton Thimm who are finding their footing, Pierre-Louis said his experience will come in handy as he gets used to the intricacies of the CEBL. 'I'm used to a certain level of basketball,' said Pierre-Louis. 'It's different rules up here, but I'm very used to the physicality of how I play. 'I'm very excited for the new challenges ahead.' With their season tipping off on Thursday night, hosting the Vancouver Bandits, a good start will be necessary for the Rattlers to erase the sting of last year's elimination and get back to the playoff picture for the first time in three summers. 'I think we learned that this league is no joke,' said Tsegakele. 'There's talent all across the 10 teams and any given night, the last team in the league can beat you. So you got to come ready every single game, bring your 'A' game and come ready to compete.' Story continues below advertisement The Rattlers will get their 2025 CEBL season underway at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, welcoming the Bandits to SaskTel Centre.
