Celebrating 40 Years of Rivalry and Tradition: The 2025 Labor Day Classic in Houston
By The Labor Day Classic is more than a football game—it’s a celebration of legacy, culture, and fierce Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) rivalry between Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M University. As it enters its 40th year, the 2025 Labor Day Classic promises an unforgettable weekend of competition, school spirit, and community celebration in the heart of Houston.
A Storied Legacy: 40 Years of the Labor Day Classic
First played in 1985 at the iconic Astrodome, the inaugural Labor Day Classic saw Texas Southern University clinch a 19-7 victory before a crowd of more than 25,000 fans. It marked the beginning of one of Houston’s most enduring sports traditions. Over the years, the Classic has bounced between venues, featured legendary players and coaches, and become a symbolic showdown for bragging rights between the Tigers and the Panthers.
The 1980s were dominated by Texas Southern, including a memorable comeback win in 1986 and a high-energy 30-21 victory in 1987. Prairie View A&M broke through in 1988, but Texas Southern responded with a dominating 45-7 win the following year, igniting a 14-game winning streak that lasted into the early 2000s.
In 2004, Prairie View A&M began its resurgence, and between 2005 and 2011, the Panthers took control of the series. Since then, the Classic has seen thrilling finishes, last-second field goals, nationally televised games, and even a weather-delayed seven-hour marathon in 2016.
COVID-19 led to a pause in 2020, but the rivalry resumed with full force in 2021. Prairie View extended its winning streak to seven games until Texas Southern University broke the cycle in 2024 with a commanding 27-9 win in Panther Stadium—its first victory at that venue and a triumphant debut for new head coach Cris Dishman.
2025 Labor Day Classic Weekend Schedule
This year’s Labor Day Classic promises more than just a football game. It’s a full weekend experience packed with events for fans, alumni, and families to enjoy:
Thursday, August 28, 2025
- Labor Day Classic Golf Tournament | 7:00 AM: Purchase Your Foursome or Secure Your Sponsorship Here
- Marching Bands Road Show & Recruitment | 5:00 AM
Friday, August 29, 2025
- Labor Day Classic Sneaker Ball | 7:00 PM: Purchase Tickets Here!
Saturday, August 30, 2025
- Game Day at Shell Energy Stadium | 7:00 PM: To purchase game tickets, CLICK HERE.
All events will take place in Houston, Texas, with the Hilton Americas-Houston serving as the official host hotel. Book your room at a discounted rate by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.
Be Part of History—Support the Classic
Whether you’re a long-time fan, proud alum, or first-time attendee, the Labor Day Classic offers a unique opportunity to connect with the community, celebrate HBCU traditions, and support student-athletes.
Become a sponsor and help sustain one of Houston’s most cherished cultural and sporting traditions:
- View Golf Tournament Sponsorship Deck
- Purchase Your Foursome or Secure Your Sponsorship Here
- View Sneaker Ball Sponsorship Deck
Proceeds from the Labor Day Classic directly benefit TSU and PVAMU athletic programs, marching bands, and student development initiatives. In partnership with both universities’ official foundations, this event is a cornerstone for fundraising and impact.
