Lift Orlando’s Heart of Orlando’s West Lakes Wellness Center recently hosted the National Society of Black Sports Professionals (BSP) Orlando | Central Florida Chapter Florida Classic Networking Mixer. The weekend was about advancing Black sports professionals.
Festivities included the annual Florida Blue Florida Classic, which has drawn two million-plus fans since 1978. Florida A&M defeated Bethune-Cookman in the 2023 Classic. With the win, the 10-1 Rattlers climbed into the #5 spot nationally in the NCAA’s Football Championship Division Coaches poll. A&M will play Prairie View for the SWAC Championship on Saturday, December 2.
For many, the weekend’s centerpiece was the Florida Classic Networking Mixer, which “was a momentous occasion,” said Latria Graham, GLB Media Group president and president of the BSP Orlando | Central Florida Chapter. Prominent attendees included Sade Battle, Marketing Director and Project Manager with Andy Frain, and Justin Kinsey, West Lakes District Market Street Executive Director.
Justin Kinsey: West Lakes has become a sports destination neighborhood, and it holds a unique place in our hearts.
The United States Tennis Association (USTA) also played a significant role in the mixer, with Darnesha Moore, National Manager of Coach Education, Training, and Resources, and Community Outreach Managers Darian Banks and Louis Bolling attending. “The energy was electric, and the event is a platform for connection, growth, and unity in the sports community,” Banks said.
