LYNCHBURG, VA - The Barber-Scotia College Sabers made program history Saturday, taking the field for their first-ever college football game against Virginia University of Lynchburg. Despite falling 54-0 on the road, the milestone marked the official beginning of football at the Concord, North Carolina institution.

The Sabers, competing in the New South Athletic Conference, faced a seasoned VU-Lynchburg squad in what served as a learning experience for the fledgling program. Head coach Joel Williams worked with a roster comprised largely of first-time college players, many of whom had never competed at this level.

The lopsided score reflected the growing pains expected of an inaugural season, but the significance of the moment wasn't lost on the small contingent of Barber-Scotia supporters who made the trip to witness history. The Sabers' entry into college football represents a new chapter for the historically black college, as the institution looks to reconnect with its storied past and build for the future.

The team will look to build on this foundation as they continue their inaugural season in the New South Athletic Conference, a league formed in 2020 specifically for small colleges throughout the Southeast region.