Battle of the Bay Coaches Luncheon Ignites Excitement Ahead of Rivalry Showdown
The excitement surrounding the historic Battle of the Bay rivalry between Norfolk State University and Hampton University officially kicked off with a spirited Coaches Luncheon held Wednesday, Sept. 16, at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott.
Hosted by Norfolk State University, the inaugural Battle of the Bay luncheon brought together coaches, administrators, faculty, staff, student-athletes, alumni, and supporters from both institutions to celebrate one of the region's most storied athletic rivalries. More than 200 guests attended the event, which set the stage for the highly anticipated football matchup scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19.
Ross Gordon, Assistant Athletics Director for Play-by-Play Broadcasting and Production at Norfolk State, served as master of ceremonies and energized attendees with a preview of the excitement and competitive spirit expected when the two teams meet on the gridiron.
The program opened with welcome remarks from Melissa Cade, Chief Experience Officer of Chartway Credit Union; LaVoris Pace, Deputy City Manager of Norfolk representing Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander; and Hampton’s Vice Mayor Steven Brown, representing Hampton Mayor Jimmy Gray. Each speaker highlighted the significance of the rivalry and its positive impact on the Hampton Roads community.
Norfolk State University President Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston greeted attendees and playfully issued the first challenge of the day, sparking friendly competition between the two institutions and setting the tone for an engaging program.
A featured highlight of the luncheon was the "Battle of the Bay Conversation," featuring Norfolk State Head Coach Michael Vick, Hampton University Head Coach Van Malone, Norfolk State Director of Athletics Dr. Melody Webb, and Hampton University's Director of Athletics, Anthony Henderson, Sr. During the discussion, participants reflected on the rich history of the rivalry, shared insights about their respective programs, and talked about expectations for Saturday's game.
Friendly barbs and bold predictions filled the room as both coaches confidently declared their teams would emerge victorious. Despite the competitive banter, speakers emphasized the deep connections shared by Norfolk State and Hampton University and the mutual respect that has long defined the rivalry. Both institutions noted that the Battle of the Bay showcases the pride, tradition, and excellence of two powerhouse HBCUs while bringing the Hampton Roads (“757”) community together through sportsmanship and school spirit.
The athletic directors also stressed the importance of providing student-athletes with exceptional educational and athletic experiences, underscoring the critical role that philanthropic support plays in maintaining and growing successful athletic programs.
The luncheon concluded with the launch of the Battle of the Bay Giving Challenge, presented by Norfolk State Vice President for University Advancement Clifford Porter and his Hampton University counterpart, Dr. Marc Newman. The fundraising competition officially began on Sept. 16 and will continue through halftime of the Battle of the Bay game on Sept. 19.
Supporters of both universities are encouraged to participate and help their institution claim victory both on and off the field by contributing to their respective programs. Norfolk State supporters can make their gifts by texting WINNSU to 41444 or give online to participate in the challenge.
As kickoff approaches, one thing is certain: the Battle of the Bay is more than a football game. It is a celebration of tradition, excellence, community pride, and the enduring rivalry between two of Hampton Roads' most distinguished universities. The stage is set, the challenge has been issued, and Saturday's showdown promises to be another memorable chapter in Battle of the Bay history.
View the event photos here.
