Rocky Mount, NC – Fayetteville State University Athletics Director Anthony Bennett and Head Football Coach Richard Hayes, Jr. will participate in the 24th Annual Down East Viking Football Classic (DEVFC) press conference on Monday (July 19) at noon in Rocky Mount, NC.

In addition to Rocky Mount Mayor C. Saunders Roberson, Jr. and Elizabeth City State University representatives, student-athletes from both universities will provide remarks. Senior offensive lineman Gregory Brooks (Walkertown, NC) will speak on behalf of FSU. Senior safety Taeyonn Reynolds (Virginia Beach, VA) and junior receiver Zion Riddick (Ahoskie, NC) will represent the Vikings.

The presser is a kick-off for a historical signature event for the Rocky Mount area that provides the ultimate Elizabeth City State University experience since 1998. The Vikings hosted the Broncos in the inaugural Classic, where Fayetteville State claimed the 10-7 victory. FSU holds a 6-3 advantage when playing in the DEVFC.

The Labor Day Weekend matchup will be the season-opener and the second meeting between Head Coach Hayes and ECSU's Head Coach Anthony Jones. In 2019, the Broncos defeated the Vikings in the Down East Viking Football Classic 55-12.

A buildup of events will lead up to the climactic rivalry. ECSU will host an education day, golf tournament, and several other events throughout the weekend, making it an occasion for the whole family to enjoy. Game tickets are already on sale at $25 and tailgating packages will go on sale soon through the city of Rocky Mount.

For additional information regarding the Down East Viking Football Classic, visit www.ecsu.edu/athletics/devfc. Labor Day Weekend activities in Rocky Mount from September 3-4 will be released following the DEVFC Press Conference.