COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – Every Friday morning before the Fountain City Classic game, fans of the Fort Valley Wildcats and Albany State Rams gather at Golden Donut for an annual event: the Coffee Sip.

“The Coffee Sip is truly a social gathering,” said Saundra Ellison, co-chair of the Fountain City Classic. “We feel like we should be able to give back to the community in a small way. I just want everyone to come out, have fun, and support the Wildcats!

When the team’s fans arrived, they were given free coffee and donuts during a friendly conversation, although that may not last long before Saturday’s heated HBCU rivalry.

“Alumni and friends just go out and have fun, remember the college days,” said Georgia State Rep. Teddy Reese. “Coffee isn’t the only thing hot, you know, you have a Fort Valley graduate sitting next to an Albany State graduate; “It will definitely be a little warm.”

The Fountain City Classic Coffee Sip remains a special tradition for those heading to Columbus, as it is a time for fans to recharge for the weekend.

“This is a family matter and this has been going on for 34 years,” said FCC Committee member Georgie Humphery. “We wanted to do something where everyone was involved; to have fun and contribute to the community. I am supporting he Unsinkable, Albany State Rams! Humphery said.

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