Delaware State University’s football team is facing unexpected travel challenges as they prepare for their season opener against the University of Hawaii.
The team missed their scheduled 10.5-hour flight to Honolulu due to a “bus mishap” on the way to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.
A spokeswoman from Delaware State confirmed that the team is working on alternative plans to reach Hawaii. With the game set for Saturday at 6 p.m. local time, time is running short.
This game marks a historic first meeting between the two teams. The University of Hawaii hasn’t played a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) team since facing Prairie View A&M in 1979.
Hawaii, known for its strong performance against FCS teams, is on a 20-game winning streak against them, dating back to 2011. They’ve won these games with an average margin of 25.9 points per game. Hawaii ended their 2023 season with a 5-8 record, while Delaware State struggled with a 1-10 season.
As the clock ticks down, both teams are eager to take the field, but Delaware State has the added challenge of simply getting there.