Tuesday Press Conference

By Sylvester “Nunnie” Robinson

The organizers of the inaugural Florida Beach Bowl held a press conference on Tuesday, December 12, at Drive Pink Stadium featuring the commissioners, athletic directors and football coaches from participating conferences and schools: CIAA/Johnson C. Smith and SIAC/Ft. Valley State University. Representing the City of Ft. Lauderdale was District 4 Commissioner Warren Sterling, who welcomed all visitors and encouraged them to enjoy all amenities Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Also present was president and CEO Victor Robenson, who conceived of the idea and saw a need for a bowl game featuring HBCUs, a concept that hadn’t existed since the last Pioneer Bowl in the mid twenties. Victor, an Alabama State University grad, thanked all stakeholders who supported and helped make possible this exciting event, especially former Orange Bowl president Mr. Keith Tribble.

Both coaches spoke in glowing terms about the importance of playing in the game, noting that they were 2 of 4 HBCUs (Florida A&M and Howard/ Celebration Bowl in Atlanta the other two) still playing at this juncture of the season. Ft. Valley State head coach Shawn Gibbs spoke of the experience and inspiration his players have  gained from participating in the Battle by the Beach. He stated that his players are prepared and ready to compete against a worthy opponent like J. C. Smith.

The exposure and opportunity to increase resources to better serve his players is another important benefit. Coach Gibbs stated that anytime you have an opportunity to participate in  a bowl game and big time facility like Drv/Pk Stadium, the players are excited and ready to go.

Coach Maurice Flowers of Johnson C. Smith said that it was an honor to represent the CIAA, Johnson C. Smith and the community in the first annual Florida Beach Bowl, noting proudly that Livingstone and Smith played in the very first HBCU football game, so it’s an honor to be first in this bowl. When asked by media what was the message to his team, he stated in no uncertain terms, “Keep the main thing The Main Thing.” – the game. Coach Flowers also talked about what participating in this game means to J. C. Smith and taking a page from the school’s president, he says it’s a new era of excellence, a stepping stone to building a program based on academic excellence.

It was obvious in press conference that both coaches were excited to be here as participants in this inaugural Florida Beach Bowl/Battle by the Beach. It should be an exciting, competitive fun-filled game and event, one I wouldn’t want to miss. See you there.