MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – For college football fans in Montgomery, Tuesday night wasn’t just another game under the lights.
It marked the first time in 24 years that Troy University and Jacksonville State University faced each other on the football field, a long-awaited matchup that brought history, school pride, and a historic rivalry back to the stands.
“This one hits different,” many fans said, and the crowd showed it.
Among them was Lacey Harrell, a lifelong Troy fan who made sure the moment didn’t pass her family by. Harrell brought her son and his friend to the Salute to Veterans Bowl so they could experience a piece of Troy and Jacksonville State history.
“We watched them practice, took him to lunch, and we’ve been here since about four,” Harrell said. “It’s been a long day, but we’re super excited about the game.”
Harrell has been a Troy fan since attending the university in 2003 and remembers the last time the two teams played back in 2001, when she was a member of the Troy band. For her, returning to the stadium brought back more than football memories.
“It’s not just the game,” Harrell said. “It’s the band, the atmosphere, and being able to show both of my boys, who are in band, what two good schools with good bands look like.”
While Harrell was confident Troy would come out on top, she was seated right next to friends rooting for Jacksonville State, affectionately known as “Jax.”
The rivalry, she said, stayed friendly.
“We can be nice to each other and still pick on each other,” Harrell said. “It’s good, clean fun.”
But beyond the football rivalry, organizers say the most important part of the night was honoring those who served.
The matchup is part of the Salute to Veterans Bowl, an event designed to recognize veterans while connecting them with resources, organizations, and support services available in the community.
Groups like the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association were on site, sharing information and raising awareness about services for veterans who may need help transitioning back into civilian life.
“It’s amazing,” said David Mills, Chapter Commander with the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. “There are a lot of veterans out there who need help, and we’re here to do that. We hope events like this bring awareness to what’s available.”
From packed stands and marching bands to meaningful conversations off the field, fans say the night proved that football can do more than bring teams together, it can bring communities together, too.
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