Allen University and Benedict College will honor the legacy of longtime coach and athletics administrator Willie Washington by naming their annual football matchup the Willie Washington HBCU Football Classic, beginning in 2027.
The institutions marked the announcement with a declaration signing and on-field presentation during the Allen–Benedict football game on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Allen University Interim President Dr. Stanley J. Pritchett, Sr., and Stanley Cromartie, Vice President/Director of Athletics, joined Selby Artist and Benedict College Interim Director of Athletics Jerome Fitch for the presentation. Two of Washington’s sons, Chad Washington and Willie Washington Jr, joined them on the field.
Washington’s connection to the rivalry extended to both campuses. He arrived at Allen University in 1976 as head men’s basketball coach and athletics director, serving for approximately 12 years before joining Benedict in 1988. During his Allen tenure, the athletics program expanded to five sports. Allen also honored him with induction into its Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016.
At Benedict, Washington began as head men’s basketball coach and assistant athletics director before becoming full-time director of athletics in 1998–99. His 38 years of service helped shape the college’s athletics program, including the return of football and the expansion of opportunities for student-athletes.
Washington’s influence reached beyond competition. His career combined coaching, program development, mentorship and leadership in intercollegiate athletics. The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference recognized his contributions through its Hall of Fame and the Willie Washington Athletic Director of the Year Award.
Beginning in 2027, the annual Allen–Benedict game will carry the name of a leader whose work became part of both institutions’ athletics histories. The declaration connects the rivalry’s next chapter with a legacy shared by the two campuses.