Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced his full support for the 17th Annual Chicago Football Classic on Wednesday.
He said the Classic is about investing in education, which is something he is always a fan of supporting
“Our kids are students first, athletes second,” said Emanuel.
This year’s game will be between Central State University and Morehouse College on Sat. Sept. 20th. There will also be a college fair featuring Historically Black Colleges and Universities from 9 a.m.-11 a.m.
For the second year, MillerCoors is giving Morehouse and Central a $10,000 check for scholarships.
“We all are looking to see that our kids climb the ladder of success,” said Chicago Football Classic co-founder Everett Rand.
Co-founder Larry Huggins said that this event exposes youth to college recruiters and successful business people. He added that many families cannot afford to watch a game at Soldier Field so this game gives them that chance because tickets are affordable. They range from $17 to $45 and are available at Walgreen’s, Midway Wholesalers, 41 W. 84th St. and Riteway Huggins, 1030 E. 87th St. The goal is to raise between $50,000-$100,000. From every ticket purchased at a Chicagoland Walgreen’s, $2 will go to the “Stop the Violence Campaign.”
Earlier that day, the Jackie Robinson West Team was honored at City Council.
“They brought tears to our eyes, they brought pride to our hearts,” said Emanuel. “You started on the South Side, but now you are America’s team.”
Aldermen took turns congratulating the young players.
“I want to congratulate coaches and parents and all the young men,” said Ald. Pat Dowell (3rd). You have made our city proud.” She said that there has been more interest in a Little League team in her community.
“You all have done us well with how you represented us,” said Ald. Walter Burnett (27th). “Tears came to my eyes because you made me so proud, you’re so mature, thank you for representing us so well.”
An anonymous donor gave Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) $100 gift cards for the entire team.
After honoring the team, Emanuel was back to business. He introduced an ordinance that that make the city’s curfew include 17 year-olds too. Currently, it only effects youth up to age 16.
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