I think one of the biggest issues with these HBCU football programs is their insistence on playing the "(insert name) Classic" usually at these huge NFL type stadiums. While some have adequate fanbases and support, most do not. For example, Grambling and Alcorn are 2 1/2 hours apart, yet they traveled 10 and 12 hours respectively to play a game in front of 20,000 people in a 70,000 seat stadium. I'm not an accountant but the resources for this undertaking are simply not there and I cant imagine the revenue is either. If it is, then not feeding your players and providing them with adequate transportation is inexcusable. I would also note that this is the second time this year Grambling did this. They also went to play a Division II HBCU in front of 20,000 at Arrowhead Stadium. That is just asinine. There is no way the numbers can support this type of trip. This sounds like poor management from the administration on down. I don't blame the players one bit. These kids work their fannies off being told what a great "tradition" they are a part of only to be treated like glorified high schoolers. If the alumni want these games, let them kick in the funds.
From my understanding, the "Classic" games are actually the most lucrative games for HSBC programs in terms of revenue, and expenses are relatively
de minimis (especially when you stick kids on a bus). Getting 20,000 or 25,000 people in attendance at one of the "Classic" games held at a neutral site may not seem like a great deal, but that's a substantial turnout given that their typical home game draws in between 5,000 to 7,000 people (who are typically paying a lower ticket price, too).
Grambling has suffered a lot over the past 15-20 years, and it's basically a miniature shell of its former self at this point. Will they ever get back to what they once were? I think the answer is almost undeniably no, and the real discussion here -- of which this board in particular is not the proper forum -- is much more fundamental than mere amateur athletics, which is what is the continuing and ongoing need, if any, for HSBC's in modern America. Again, though, that's really a discussion for the non-sports board.
In any event, regarding the merits, this one does not make sense to me. I understand that the program is struggling and amenities are certainly lacking, but even so you are a football player on a team that has won one game in two years, and you are complaining about meals and convenience of transportation?
