Tennessee State University and Notre Dame joint Press Conference
CAPTION TSU and Notre Dame hold a press conference to announce the Sept. 3, 2023 football game between the two institutions. Participating are, from left, Dr. Mikki Allen, TSU’s Athletics Director; Eddie George, TSU Head Football Coach; Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame’s Head Football Coach; and John Brian “Jack Swarbrick, Jr., Director of athletics at Notre Dame.
By: Emmanuel Freeman
It will be a celebrated match up when the Tennessee State University Tigers travel to South Bend, Indiana, to take on the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. Today, the two institutions held a joint press conference to discuss the gridiron matchup for the 2023 season. The nationally televised game is scheduled for September 2.
TSU President Glenda Glover applauded Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen and Head Football Coach Eddie George for their visionary leadership to secure the historic game.
“This game has many more dimensions than simply two teams meeting on the field. It provides an opportunity for TSU to showcase our student-athletes, our world- famous Aristocrat of Bands, and most importantly, this game showcases our university to millions around the world,” said President Glover. “We have a legacy of excellence from the playing field to the classroom, and our current academic programs continue to produce outstanding students and research.”
“This is an exciting time for Tennessee State University and our football program,” said Dr. Allen. “TSU and Notre Dame are two iconic programs that have helped shape today’s college athletics landscape.
“The fact that Tennessee State will be the first HBCU and FCS opponent to play in South Bend, speaks volumes about the TSU brand and the trajectory of our football program under Coach George’s leadership. As we continue to set the foundation for sustained excellence across our athletic programs, recruiting and exposure are paramount in helping us to reach this goal.”
AD Allen was joined by TSU Head Football Coach Eddie George and Director of Bands Dr. Reginald McDonald for the announcement at the Notre Dame Stadium Media Center.
Coach George is no stranger to the big stage that the game will bring as TSU faces Notre Dame. In 1995, George ran for 207 yards and two touchdowns while playing for Ohio State. He will rely on that experience to prepare his team.
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to take my team to such a historic college football landmark in Notre Dame,” said George. “To be the first HBCU to compete at ND is a testament to the brand and history of Tennessee State University.”
This will be Notre Dame’s first game against an HBCU opponent. The Irish take the field with TSU to feature the two storied programs that have a combined 20 national titles.
Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman and George played for the Buckeyes and in the NFL. Freeman is in his first year as head coach.
“I am excited for our program to be taking the field with Tennessee State, a great partner in college football. We are looking forward to hosting the Tigers, an HBCU with a proud tradition.”
TSU’s Aristocrat of Band and Band of the Fighting Irish will also perform, adding to the excitement and game-day experience.
The TSU Tigers will kick off the 2022 season against Eastern Washington University on September 3, 2022.
