The 20th Annual Cricket MEAC/SWAC Kick-Off Challenge is more than a football game – it’s a celebration of history, tradition, and the powerful network of support that surrounds Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Since its debut in 2005, this high-energy matchup between schools from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) has brought together athletes, alumni, fans and families from across the country.
Since moving to the Atlanta area in 2010, the Kick-Off Challenge has found a home not just in stadiums, but in the hearts of a community that celebrates Black excellence, both on and off the field. As we approach this milestone year in 2025, we sat down with three individuals whose lives have been deeply shaped by the MEAC/SWAC network. Through their stories, one thing becomes crystal clear: this game is a unifier regardless of whether you’re a fan, a player, a coach or a volunteer.
Michelle Jinks 
Former MEAC/SWAC Media Coordinator
Michelle first became involved with the MEAC/SWAC Challenge during her tenure as Director of Media Relations for the MEAC. As part of her role, she traveled to Bristol, Connecticut, where she sat alongside the MEAC and SWAC Commissioners as they pitched their conferences to ESPN for television coverage on the newly launched ESPNU network. That pivotal moment helped lay the foundation for what would become two decades of national exposure for HBCU athletes, coaches and culture.
What stands out most in her memory? Watching Tavaris Jackson take the field in the very first game – witnessing his talent, sportsmanship, and leadership up close as excitement built around his future in the NFL.
LaVosha Redd
Operations & Community Relations Consultant, Volunteer of the Year 2021 & 2022
LaVosha Redd first became involved with the MEAC/SWAC Kick-Off Challenge while serving in the U.S. Air Force. As a volunteer ambassador, she found herself drawn to the energy, pride, and most of all, the family atmosphere that defines HBCU culture, despite not having attended an HBCU herself. That connection was so strong she continued returning each year, eventually becoming a team host and later, an integral member of ESPN’s MEAC/SWAC team following a direct offer from John Grant, executive director of Cricket Celebration Bowl and MEAC/SWAC Kick-Off Challenge.
LaVosha has made a lasting impact on the program through the launch of “Beyond the Field,” an initiative that extends the event’s influence into local schools. By introducing student-focused activities like panel discussions, career fairs, and mentoring sessions, the program aims to inspire the next generation to look beyond the game and start preparing for their future.
Marlin (Pastor Mo) Lynch III
Played in First Kick-Off Challenge and Lifelong Advocate 
Pastor Mo brings a unique perspective to the Kick-Off Challenge, having played in the very first game. His journey has allowed him to witness the evolution of the event firsthand, as well as the ongoing growth of the players and coaches within the MEAC/SWAC network.
Before joining the Alabama State team, Pastor Mo played at Indiana University. While competing in the Big Ten, he often felt like just a number – but within the HBCU community, he found something more: a family. That sense of belonging continues to shape his life today, reinforcing his personal message that, “Regardless of whether these players go pro in the game, this community will motivate them to go pro in life.”
So, how has this game endured for 20 years? It’s about more than just football, it is a celebration of shared history, pride, and a collective mission to uplift HBCUs and their students.
Join the legacy and become part of the family at the 20th Cricket MEAC/SWAC Kick-Off Challenge on Saturday, August 23 at Center Parc Stadium.
