Alumni Stadium: A Legacy of Delaware State University
Alumni Stadium at Delaware State University (DSU) is more than just a sports venue; it's a testament to the university's rich history and commitment to athletic excellence. Home to the Hornets football and track and field teams, the stadium has witnessed both triumphs and tribulations, solidifying its place as a vital part of the DSU experience.
The Genesis of Delaware State University
Delaware State University's story began on May 15, 1891, when the Delaware General Assembly established the Delaware College for Colored Students under the Morrill Act of 1890. This act aimed to create land-grant colleges for Black students in states with segregated educational facilities. To avoid confusion with the existing Delaware College (now the University of Delaware), the institution was renamed the State College for Colored Students in 1893.
Guided by a dedicated Board of Trustees, the college officially opened its doors on February 2, 1892, with a mission of education and public service. Initially, five baccalaureate degree programs were offered: Agricultural, Chemical, Classical, Engineering, and Scientific. A Preparatory Department was added in 1893 to support students who needed additional preparation. In 1897, a three-year normal course was introduced to train teachers, and the first class of degree candidates graduated in May 1898.
The curriculum evolved over time. In 1912, the courses were reorganized into Academic, Agricultural, Mechanic Arts, and Domestic Science, with the Bachelor of Pedagogy degree awarded for completing the academic curriculum. By the 1916-1917 academic year, the Preparatory Department was phased out, and a Model Grade School was established, offering a four-year high school diploma. A Junior College Division was added in 1923, followed by four-year curricula in Arts and Sciences, Elementary Education, Home Economics, Agriculture, and Industrial Arts in 1932.
Accreditation and Growth
In 1944, the College achieved provisional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), a significant milestone. In 1947, the institution's name was officially changed to Delaware State College. However, accreditation was revoked in November 1949, dealing a blow to the college's reputation. The High School Division was discontinued at the end of the 1951-52 school year.
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The college regained full accreditation from MSCHE in April 1957, marking a turning point. This accreditation has been reaffirmed multiple times since then. On July 1, 1993, Delaware State College became Delaware State University, signifying its growth and expanded mission.
Today, Delaware State University stands as a leading Historically Black College and University (HBCU), serving a diverse student population. The university is fully approved by the Delaware Department of Education and accredited by MSCHE, offering associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Its programs have earned accreditation from various specialized bodies, including the American Chemical Society, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, International (AACSB), the Accrediting Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA), the American Bar Association (ABA), and the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
Alumni Stadium: A Home for the Hornets
The Hornets football team proudly calls the 7,193-seat Alumni Stadium home. This stadium also serves as the venue for the university's track and field program. While Alumni Stadium may not be the most modern facility, its unique atmosphere and passionate fans create an unforgettable experience.
The stadium's features include:
- Seating: The south stand primarily offers bleacher seating with a few areas with seatbacks, while the north stand consists entirely of bleacher seats.
- Daktronics Multi-Media Display System: A state-of-the-art system featuring a high-definition video screen and scoreboard enhances the game-day experience.
Game Day Atmosphere
Despite its modest appearance, Alumni Stadium boasts a vibrant atmosphere. The enthusiastic crowd, energized by the university band, cheerleaders, and dance team, creates an exciting environment for players and fans alike.
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While official food options within the stadium may be limited, local vendors and food trucks often set up around the grounds, offering a variety of culinary choices. Grotto Pizza, a popular Delaware pizza chain, is frequently among the vendors. A stand in the northwest corner may also be open, selling items like fish dinners, funnel cakes, hot dogs, and Italian sausage.
Location and Accessibility
Alumni Stadium is conveniently located off DuPont Highway, a major road. Route 1, a toll road, provides easy access to Wilmington. The stadium is approximately one and a half hours from Philadelphia or Baltimore and about two hours from Washington, D.C.
Parking is generally free, with university police directing visitors to various lots around campus. However, parking may cost $20 during the annual homecoming game or for those choosing to park directly by the stadium.
A Rollercoaster of Football History
The Hornets football program has experienced both highs and lows throughout its history.
The Early Years and a Historic Loss
The team suffered a significant setback on November 9, 1980, when they were defeated by the Portland State Vikings 105-0, marking the most lopsided loss in Division I-AA Football history.
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Rebuilding and MEAC Championships
Coach Joe Purzycki was hired in 1981 to rebuild the program. Under his leadership, the Hornets achieved a 21-21-1 record, including a 15-5-1 mark in his final two seasons.
The Hornets enjoyed their most successful period under coach Bill Collick, who led the team to its first MEAC championship in his inaugural season in 1985. In 1987, Delaware State initially lost the conference championship to Howard, but the title was later awarded to Delaware State after Howard was found to have used ineligible players. Delaware State secured additional championships in 1988, 1989, and 1991.
Recent History
Ben Blacknall, hired before the 2000 season, earned Coach of the Year honors after a successful first year. Al Lavan took over as head coach in 2003 and implemented significant changes to the program, leading to the team's first winning season since 2000 in 2005.
In 2007, the Hornets achieved a school-record 10 wins, a MEAC championship, and their first-ever appearance in the NCAA playoffs. They were also recognized as the 2007 American Sports Wire Division I Black College National Champions.
Kermit Blount was hired as head coach in 2011, followed by Kenny Carter in 2015. Rod Milstead, a DSU alum and former NFL player, was named head coach in January 2018.
The University of Delaware Rivalry
For many years, the lack of a regular-season game between Delaware State University and the University of Delaware sparked controversy. Critics argued that the absence of this in-state rivalry was due to racial bias, given Delaware State's status as a Historically Black College.
The two teams finally met on the football field on November 23, 2007, in the first round of the NCAA FCS Playoffs, with the Blue Hens defeating the Hornets. In 2009, the teams began playing each other during the regular season, establishing an annual series in 2011 that ran until 2022 (with some exceptions). The 2021 matchup was played at Alumni Stadium for the first time.
More Than Just a Stadium
Alumni Stadium is a place where student-athletes hone their skills and compete at the NCAA Division I level. DSU athletics offers 19 NCAA Division I sports, primarily competing in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).
The university provides comprehensive support for its student-athletes, including academic services, sports medicine, and a Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). Student-athletes also benefit from a state-of-the-art strength and conditioning facility.
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