This past Saturday, Audi Field was packed as Howard University took on Hampton University for the highly anticipated annual Truth and Service Classic. 

The classic was a celebration of Black excellence for both historically Black colleges and called together students, alumni, locals, and fans to witness the battle of the real HU.  

The atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride as lively fans congregated in the parking lot hours before kickoff for a tailgate, all repping their HU. Loads of buses that transported students to the field lined up as both Howard and Hampton students geared up for a day to remember. 

Howard juniors Kaily Kuykendall and Kyndall Cole expressed their enthusiasm for the weekend as a whole. 

“We look forward to the classic every year. For us, it’s more than just the actual football game, but also the tailgate, halftime show, and overall vibe of everyone repping their school,” they shared. 

Hampton alumna Karen Washington shared that she traveled from Chicago with several members of her class to attend the weekend festivities.

“I promised I’d see my classmates twice a year: the classic and homecoming. It’s a given that we all get together and have a good time like how we used to,” said Washington. “It goes beyond football, and I think that’s something everyone here realizes. There is a cultural significance to two prominent HBCUs coming together in rivalry, but also in love. I want this tradition to last a lifetime, I will bring my kids here to witness this moment.”

As the start of the game approached, fans headed inside Audi Field for the long-awaited football game. The crowd was electric, from kickoff to the last play.

At first, it appeared to be Howard's game…until it didn’t. The Bison led 31-24 heading into the fourth quarter. Hampton was able to catch up and finish with a game win of 35-34. 

Despite what some may consider an upset, Howard fans remain exuberant for two reasons: one, we will always be the real HU, and two, it was always more than just a game.

While football may have been the cause that brought us together, we remember the day for its companionship. The laughs shared, photos taken, and playful banter are something that we look forward to every year. Until next time, Pirates. 

Howard students Kristin Edwards, Kyndall Cole, Kaily Kuykendall, Kayleigh Holcombe, and Minla Phillips (left to right) attending the Truth and Service Classic football game.

Howard students Minla Phillips (left) and Kayleigh Holcombe (right) at the Truth and Service Classic football game.