SWAC Media Day 2025: Polished Programs Ready for Business in Birmingham
The Sheraton Birmingham hummed with anticipation on July 16, 2025, as the SWAC's finest gathered for the annual Media Day showcase. While the energy may have been more measured than years past, the palpable excitement for a new football season filled every corner of the venue as coaches, players, and media converged to preview what promises to be another thrilling year of SWAC football.
A Picture of Professionalism
Gone were the days of mismatched presentations and uncertain messaging. Every single SWAC program arrived looking remarkably polished and poised, creating an atmosphere of uniformity that was both refreshing and impressive. The student-athletes appeared exceptionally well-groomed and put-together, their professional appearance serving as a testament to the growth and maturity of their respective programs.
This wasn't about flashy presentations or over-the-top showmanship – this was about confidence. Each team carried themselves with a quiet assurance that spoke volumes about their internal belief systems and the foundations they're building.
The New Kid Making Waves
All eyes were on Mississippi Valley State University's new head coach, who became the center of considerable chatter throughout the day. As the newest face in the SWAC coaching ranks, the anticipation surrounding his approach and philosophy added an intriguing subplot to the proceedings.
Projected Pecking Order
The preseason rankings delivered few surprises, falling largely in line with expectations based on recent performances and returning talent:
SWAC West:
Southern University - The Jaguars enter as the division favorites
Alcorn State - Positioned as the primary challenger
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff - Projected to finish at the bottom of the division
SWAC East:
Jackson State - The reigning national champions maintain their top billing
Florida A&M - The Rattlers slot in as the second-ranked team
Mississippi Valley State - Projected to finish last in the division
The predictable nature of these rankings suggested a general consensus about where programs currently stand, though football seasons have a way of rewriting preseason narratives.
Behind the Scenes Challenges
While the surface presentation was polished, the day wasn't without its operational hiccups. The jam-packed schedule created logistical challenges, making it difficult for media members to connect with all the coaches and players they hoped to interview. Some programs appeared to be selective about which media outlets they engaged with, creating an unfortunate dynamic that rubbed some attendees the wrong way.
This selectivity was particularly notable with Jackson State, whose approach to media interaction left certain members of the press feeling overlooked. For a conference that thrives on media support and exposure, this picking-and-choosing mentality seemed counterproductive, especially when many of the attending media members are dedicated SWAC supporters.
The presence of new Sports Information Directors and media relations personnel who seemed hesitant to engage with unfamiliar media faces highlighted a concerning trend that could impact the conference's broader media relationships.
The Bigger Picture
Despite the operational challenges, SWAC Media Day 2025 served its primary purpose: showcasing the talent, effort, and excellence that defines each program. The event provided valuable insight into how the upcoming season might unfold, with each team's representatives offering glimpses into their preparation and expectations.
What stood out most was the results-oriented mindset that permeated the day. Rather than relying on bravado or empty promises, programs seemed focused on tangible progress and measurable outcomes. This shift toward substance over style suggested a conference that's maturing in its approach to competition and development.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on Media Day and teams return to their respective campuses for the final weeks of preparation, the impression left behind is one of quiet confidence. Each program appears to believe in what they're building, even if they're not shouting it from the rooftops.
The SWAC has always been about more than just football – it's about culture, tradition, and community. While Media Day 2025 may have lacked some of the traditional fanfare, it revealed a conference that's serious about its business and committed to elevating its profile through performance rather than just presentation.
The stage is set for what could be a season defined by the substance over style approach that was so evident in Birmingham. Only time will tell if this newfound focus on results will translate into the kind of on-field success that SWAC fans have come to expect and deserve.
