1930s Spring Games
Head Coach Dabo Swinney has repeatedly expressed support for the NCAA allowing teams to play an exhibition game during the spring season. These games would be against opponents not scheduled for the fall.
Many coaches have suggested using Spring Games as fundraisers, similar to preseason exhibition games held by some Division I basketball teams in recent years. Swinney has proposed a Clemson vs. Furman Spring Game in Death Valley to raise money for breast cancer awareness, a cause central to Dabo’s All In Team Foundation.
It would easily raise $1 million in one day for the cause he and his wife, Kathleen, are most passionate about.
Historically, Clemson and Duke have precedent for Spring Games, having met each March in 1937, 1938, and 1939. This was a joint initiative by Duke Head Coach Wallace Wade and Clemson Head Coach Jess Neely.
The idea of the ACC Network broadcasting exhibition Spring Games between conference schools could provide valuable content during March, April, and May. Clemson versus Duke games in this era were highly significant, featuring Hall of Fame coaches and All-American players. Although both schools belonged to the Southern Conference, they did not face each other in the regular fall seasons of those years.
Summary
Spring Games have historical roots and potential modern value as both fundraisers and unique offseason showcases for ACC teams, championed by Coach Swinney.