By Lexx Thornton
Southern University and A&M College is a public historically black land-grant university in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States. Congratulations to them, the Human Jukebox, and the Emmy-winning student filmmakers for proving that when it comes to telling our stories, HBCUs continue to lead the way.
Produced through a national $40,000 HBCU sports broadcasting grant competition sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company and the Foundation of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, The Hidden Sport pushes the boundaries of how we define athleticism. With powerful interviews, dynamic visuals, and a culturally resonant narrative, the film shows that marching band demands the same grit, endurance, and discipline as any sport.
The Emmy was awarded at the 45th Annual Sports Emmy Awards in New York City, where students Loren Sullivan, Verbon Muhammad, Sydney Cuillier, Ashley Lovelace, and Eric White-collectively known as “The Dream Team,” were recognized for their work. Their short film highlights the intense physicality, precision, and passion required to be a part of the Human Jukebox, reframing the band not just as halftime entertainment but as athletes in their own right.