Florida A&M University (FAMU) Athletics and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) announced that a press conference and pep rally has been set on Thursday, July 1, 2021 to formally introduce and welcome the Rattlers as the newest members of the conference.
The move to the SWAC ends a combined 39 years as members of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).
“This is a transformational moment in our Athletic Departments history,” said Kortne Gosha, VP/Director of Athletics. “Excitement is an understatement for our student-athletes, fans, and alumni. To have the opportunity to compete against HBCU royalty every week is an honor and the natural rivalries that exist in the SWAC will give every game that homecoming vibe.”
The press conference is set to begin at 10:30 a.m. inside the Al Lawson Multipurpose Center and will feature SWAC Commissioner Charles McClelland, Ph.D., FAMU President Larry Robinson, Ph.D. and Gosha. During the event, FAMU will officially be granted full membership into the SWAC.
Following the press conference, Commissioner McClelland will attend a luncheon provided by the 220 Quarterback Club and Rattler Boosters at the Enrichment Center. To attend the luncheon, contact Eddie Jackson at (850) 591-3620.
The festivities conclude following the luncheon back on campus with a lobby dedication at the Galimore-Powell Field House, along with a tour of the renovated facility.
Fans and supporters of FAMU athletics will have an opportunity to celebrate this momentous day during the SWAC Community Celebration and pep rally at Cascade Park in downtown Tallahassee, which starts at 7 p.m. – and free to the public. The Community Celebration will be preceded by the STRIKE Fundraising Tour event at 6 p.m. at the Edison. The STRIKE Tour event will feature silent auction items (authentic game worn jerseys, helmets, and footballs), which can be bid on and purchased during the evening. The evening will also feature live music, speakers, and members of the Marching 100 – who will be present to help celebrate this historic move to the SWAC.
To RSVP for the for the private fundraiser, please contact Ria.Floyd@famu.edu. A minimum $250 donation is required to attend the STRIKE Fundraising Tour Event at 6 p.m.
