Lincoln University of Pennsylvania Recommits to Football

After a 45-year absence, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania will begin playing football again in 2008. The historically black university first played football in 1894 but last fielded a team in 1960. In addition to football, the university will establish a marching band.

A poll of students in 2004 found that 96 percent wanted to reestablish the football program. This past week the trustees of the university agreed to reinstate the program by a vote of 21-2.

In announcing the decision to field a football team, Lincoln University president Ivory Nelson said, “A more varied campus life experience contributes significantly to the number of prospective applicants. School and campus pride is significantly enhanced by athletic participation.”