In sports rivalries, especially in intercollegiate athletics, there are many rumblings over which school has the advantage in academics, campus environment, etc. But the great equalizer to end all talk is taking it to the field or court. This is so for the Lincoln University and Cheyney University rivalry. Here is some background for the uninitiated.
Much has been debated over the years over who was the first historically black college and university. Was it Lincoln or Cheyney? Those campaigning for Cheyney say that the school was founded in 1837 as the Institute for Colored Youth. The school was the oldest institution of higher education for African Americans. But there is a catch, and the Lincoln faithful will be happy to clear it up.
Founded in 1854, Lincoln is known as the first degree-granting historically black university. Cheyney did not actually start giving degrees until 1913. Hence the now traditional chant, “LU Lincoln Pride, 1-8-5-4, first HBCU for sure” heard during many campus events to make it known to any who object. So, depending on who you ask, the first HBCU argument is up in the air.
Lincoln can talk about producing graduates such as Thurgood Marshall and Langston Hughes, while Cheyney can claim Ed Bradley and Andre Waters, but the source of pride comes from when their teams prove to be superior.
The two teams will meet this Sunday at the Liacouras Center on the campus of Temple University. Tip-off for the women's game is at 3 p.m. with the men to follow. The annual confrontation has been a staple for both schools for the past few years and has generated exciting moments in great environments.
More than the rivalry, the Holiday Classic is an opportunity for fans, students, and alumni to enjoy one another's company, relive memories, and to unite as one. Of course there will be a little ruffling of the feathers, but it is all in the spirit of fun. There was the first football game between the schools in years last August at Northeast High School in Philadelphia (Lincoln won, 41-20), but the annual basketball game is the cornerstone of the rivalry with the Lincoln football team being out of commission for years.
That same spirit of pageantry displayed at the Northeast field will no doubt be doubled at the North Philadelphia college campus. In years past, the game was played at McGonigle Hall. In anticipation for a larger crowd, both school officials felt the need for a bigger venue.
Unlike some of college sports' greatest rivalries, there is no special relic to be had. Bragging rights for the year is all that is at stake. It won't end the argument of who was first, but who wants it to end?
A pure rivalry like Lincoln and Cheyney is great for college sports and is what keeps the spirit of these two proud institutions alive and well. It is this tradition built that will help make this rivalry bigger every year. Twenty years from now, hopefully Lincoln students and alumni will still be able to brag against the Cheyney faithful at the annual Holiday Classic. One thing is for sure. The historic debate will still be unsettled.
