Fans react to new Crosstown Classic

CINCINNATI - The Crosstown Shootout is in the past and the Crosstown Classic has taken its place.

Officials from both schools announced Thursday that the University of Cincinnati and Xavier will play their annual rivalry game on a neutral court this year.

The game was moved to U.S. Bank Arena for at least the next two years after both teams brawled in their last meeting.

Fans from both schools don't like the idea of losing the home court advantage and campus feel of the game.

"I think that will be put in the past and both teams will have a mutual respect for each other and that won't happen again," said Alex Cornelissen, a U.C. Junior.

Some fans feel that the neutral site could fan the flames of the rivalry because both schools will be equally represented.

"When the game was at Xavier there were probably less than 10 percent U.C. fans there, and visa versa when you go to U.C. There's not that many Xavier fans, now it's going to be a split arena I could see the fans almost being more hostile," said Xavier graduate Alex Burkhart.

Ticket sales will be split between both schools with a portion going to the Freedom Center. Officials have yet to determine an exact percentage that will be donated to the Freedom Center.

Official changes to the game include:

• The name change – A new name, Skyline Chili Crosstown Classic, has been selected to emphasize a new direction for the game and its new emphasis on the city and its riverfront. Both institutions are pleased Skyline Chili will continue as the primary sponsor. After the two-year trial period, should the game continue, the new name will remain.
• A new logo incorporating the new name and the new direction.
• The neutral site – the U.S. Bank Arena, located on the city’s waterfront.
• The addition of a new beneficiary of the game – The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, located along the riverfront, will receive a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales from the game.

Read more on the changes here: http://www.wcpo.com/dpp/sports/uc-xavier-to-discuss-future-of-shootout#ixzz1xpGiUcFc