Tuskegee football schedules first ever home night game

Legendary Tuskegee football coach Cleve Abbott first proposed stadium lighting back in 1926. Nearly a century later, his vision has finally become reality.

For the first time in program history, the Tuskegee football team will play a home game under the lights.

When the Golden Tigers host SIAC rival Central State on Sept. 6, the team will debut new stadium lighting. The feature will allow the team to play its very first home night game.

“This is a transformational moment not only for Tuskegee Athletics but for the entire university and community. Playing under the lights at Abbott Memorial Stadium gives us new opportunities to engage our fanbase, provide a better game day experience, and showcase our rich traditions to a national audience. We’re proud to take this step forward and make history in 2025.”

Reginald Ruffin, Tuskegee Director of Athletics

Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium

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The installation of new permanent stadium lighting comes from the university’s partnership with Alabama Power. The partnership also meant lighting for the baseball field, tennis courts and softball field.

Tuskegee will be able to to host night games for the first time in school history, while also offering year-round benefits for athletics and the broader campus community.

“Tuskegee University students, alumni and football fans are expected to fill the stadium in September to witness something we have all wanted for a long time. The excitement around this game is significant because of our partnership with Alabama Power. Their dedication and financial support to this university to light up the entire campus cannot be understated.”

Dr. Mark A. Brown, President and CEO

Beyond game days, the university believes the new lighting will be a valuable tool for student wellness, academic enrichment, and engagement.

The lights provide more flexible scheduling for teams which can now practice during the cooler evening hours and avoid the risks associated with extreme daytime heat.

“The lights were about more than football. They’re about the health, safety, and well-being of our student-athletes, our student body, our fans, our parents, and our alumni.”

Reginald Ruffin, Tuskegee Director of Athletics

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