Magic City Classic 2026: Alabama State QB Aaron Frye Returns to Birmingham as Family Legacy

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - EntSun -- As Alabama State University prepares to face Alabama A&M University in the 85th Magic City Classic on Saturday, October 31, freshman quarterback Aaron Frye is preparing for a return to the Birmingham area where his football journey developed at Clay-Chalkville High School.

A new episode of The Forté Effect podcast, "Building a Legacy, Not Just Athletes," features his mother, Quiwintre Frye, Executive Director of STRIVE Birmingham, discussing the family behind two HBCU quarterbacks: Aaron at Alabama State and his brother Ashton at Grambling State.

Throughout high school, Quiwintre and her husband, Gerard Frye, typically attended their sons' games together. Now, with both sons playing college football, they sometimes divide their travel to ensure each has a parent cheering from the stands.

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During Magic City Classic weekend, Quiwintre plans to support Aaron in Birmingham while Gerard supports Ashton in Texas.

"Football does not define who they are," Quiwintre explains. "It's a part of who they are, but it does not define who they are."

The interview explores family sacrifice, education, leadership, and the importance of preparing young athletes for life beyond football. Gerard, a master electrician and electrical industry operations executive, has contributed to his sons' development through youth football coaching and mentorship.

Quiwintre has supported their teams through volunteer service, meals, transportation, and years of coordinating family and professional schedules.

The episode also reunites Forté and Quiwintre, whose professional paths previously crossed at Girls Inc. of Central Alabama and the Birmingham Education Foundation. It highlights Quiwintre's professional journey from corporate manufacturing at 3M and classroom teaching to nonprofit executive leadership.

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Today, as Executive Director of STRIVE Birmingham, she helps expand workforce development opportunities for adults, including career pathways in healthcare.

She recalls earning $7.10 an hour in an early hospital position and later finding herself in a leadership role helping others prepare for similar career opportunities.

Released ahead of Magic City Classic weekend, the conversation gives football fans, families, educators, and community leaders an opportunity to hear the story behind one of Alabama State's young quarterbacks.

"The headlines tell you what Aaron Frye is doing on the football field. The Forté Effect tells you who helped prepare him for the moment."

Watch the interview: https://youtu.be/jHQ8BbLdiRE



About The Forté Effect: Hosted by Birmingham educator and veteran Forté, the podcast explores technology, creativity, leadership, and the future of work.