Support group, Boosters appeal for help funding nutrition for FAMU football players
Florida A&M University football teams over the years have been known for speed, agility, aggressiveness, venom and innovative coaching. That has been nationally recognized for more than half a century, making FAMU one of the most honored programs in the history of the National Collegiate Athletic Association.
And yet, in their hometown, the place where those squads were born and bred, the Rattlers have not received the honor, respect and support from the Big Bend business community and many of our fellow White football fans that they deserve. Owners of hotels, restaurants and fast food chains love the color of green on dollar bills, but have not stepped up to the plate and their pockets for the African American men and women who spend their hard-earned dollars in Leon and surrounding counties. Some have been very generous but most have not answered the call.
That may be about to change. Last Monday, the 220 Quarterback Club, in its 11th year of supporting the Rattlers, kicked a 30-day Big Bend fundraising program that nearly everyone can support. The Club is asking football fans of all races and genders to give a minimum of just $1 payable to the FAMU Foundation, Football Nutrition Program #2148 at the FAMU Foundation, 625 East Tennessee Street, Tallahassee 32308. Or donate online by going to the FAMU Foundation website at www.FAMU.edu/give, account number 2148.
Businesses are being asked to give a minimum of $1 per employee. That includes White and African American businesses. The goal is to raise $50,000 annually that will allow the Rattlers to have a state-of-the-art meal program, which is so common to other college football teams. Remember, a football team, like an army, travels on its stomach.
On Sept. 1, during its regular Wednesday meeting at the Old West Enrichment Center, and based on support for the campaign, the 220 Quarterback Club will present plaques to some who made significant contributions to the campaign. Awards will be presented to a Big Bend business, a minority business, a law firm, and the 220 QBC man and woman of the year.
This is a new era for Rattler football with unprecedented support from the City of Tallahassee for a renovated Bragg Stadium; new membership in the South West Athletic Conference; and outstanding support from the National Alumni Association for a renovated Field House. Support the Seminoles and other sport teams, but remember, there is another team in town worthy of your best wishes and your financial support.
For more information contact Selvin Cobb, President of the FAMU Boosters by cell phone at 850-445- 9689 or email: selvincobb@gmail.com. Eddie Jackson can be reached by email: ejack1137@gmail.com or cell phone 850-591-3620.
Eddie Jackson is a retired FAMU vice president of University Relations.
