A historic kickoff
Chicago State University is set to field its first Division I football team in August 2025, marking a milestone for a predominantly Black institution that has long struggled to find athletic footing. The announcement coincides with a broader ambition to reshape the university’s sports narrative and generate new revenue streams in a major market.
Leading the effort are Athletic Director Monique Carroll, who assumed the role in July 2022, and Coach Bobby Rome II, hired in April 2025 after a nationwide search that attracted over 300 applicants. Rome brings a unique background, having previously launched American football programs in Vladivostok, Russia, where he built a team from the ground up.
The inaugural schedule comprises an 11‑game slate that includes matchups against nationally ranked opponents such as No. 5 Tarleton State and No. 22 UT Martin. Home games will be played at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, with the practice field repurposed from an old baseball diamond, underscoring the program’s resourceful approach.
Fundraising has already surpassed $4 million, providing a financial foundation for scholarships, equipment and operational costs. The first roster blends local talent with athletes from institutions like LSU, Hampton and NAIA schools, creating a diverse mix that reflects the program’s community‑centric ethos.
Among the newcomers is Kaymen Coleman, a Chicago‑born receiver who joined the team after seeing the opportunity to represent his hometown at the Division I level. His participation symbolizes the personal pride and broader hope that the program will become a source of regional pride.
Beyond the on‑field goals, Chicago State aims to shift its athletic reputation from a historical underdog to a competitive FCS contender that can attract sustained community support and generate revenue for the university. The inaugural game against the Division II Roosevelt Lakers will serve as a first step in that transformation.