The "unofficial" meeting place for intelligent discussions of Divisions I and II Sports of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC).
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Showing posts with label Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association. Show all posts
It is a tradition since the Civil War on Memorial Day to place American flags on the grave sites of soldiers, and veterans. The practice will be followed this year from Arlington National Cemetery where 300,000 flags will be placed to veterans cemeteries across the country to smaller neighborhood burial sites.
On Saturday I was able to find and place a Flag at the grave site in New Rochelle, NY of Eugene Lee Evans, a college football player of sixty years ago. Evans who was known as "Dippy" played on the CIAA national championship team of Morgan State in 1949, then as a young Army officer, died heroically in the Korean War just three years later.
His teammate in high school in Pelham, NY and later in college was Eli Page Howard, Jr. another extraordinary athlete of the late 1940s who also died while serving our country in Vietnam. Lt. Col. Howard is one of those heroes at Arlington for whom a Flag will be placed, a hero of the Vietnam War. Perhaps for a moment we can remember him as the star quarterback at Morgan College throwing the ball ...
Hampton, VA - Twenty student-athletes representing eleven of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association’s (CIAA) twelve member schools have been named to the CIAA Commissioner’s All-Academic Team. This year’s team defines the total NCAA DII student-athlete experience with each member excelling on their respective playing fields and courts as well as in their classrooms and communities.
“Being a Division II and CIAA student-athlete means living Life in the Balance,” notes Commissioner Leon G. Kerry. “That means dedicating an equal amount of excellence towards academic pursuits, athletic accomplishment and personal development. This year’s honorees embody that concept and we’re forever proud of them for their hard work .”
Ten CIAA student-athletes were named First Team CIAA Commissioner’s All-Academic Team. Those ten student-athletes boasted a 3.76 overall grade point average. The second team also consists of ten student-athletes, averaging a 3.8 overall grade point average. Johnson C. Smith University placed two student-athletes on this year’s team while Saint Augustine’s continued their dominance on the team with four team members, including two on the first team.
First Team Orolando DuffusSAC Track & Field SR 3.92 St. Catherine, Jamaica Business Administration Tricia Gorman CU Softball SR 3.51 Ambridge, PA Psychology Leford Green JCSU Track & Field SR 3.77 St. Catherine, Jamaica Information Systems Engineering Kalada KienkaSU Men’s Tennis SR 3.95 Lagos, Nigeria Computer Science Lolia KienkaSU Women’s Tennis JR 3.92 Lagos, Nigeria Business/International Relations Allie Kolezynski CU Softball SO 3.93 Strongsville, OH Business Administration Allison Sikes SAC Women’s Bskt. SR 3.61 Richmond, VA Psychology Rhon’Neisha Taylor VSU Women’s Bskt. SR 3.44 Nashville, TN Sport Management Travis Taylor WSSU Football SR 3.75 Newberry, SC Political Science Justin ParkerVSU Football/Golf SR 3.76 Chesterfield, VA HPER
Second Team Adidias Arrington VUU Football SR 3.56 Norfolk, VA Criminal Justice Bryan Aycoth LC Football/T&F JR 3.87 Salisbury, NC Biology Christopher CopelandSAC Track & Field JR 3.66 Suffolk, VA Sport Management Sarah DanaherLUP Women’s Bowling FR 4.00 Waitsfield, VT French/Secondary Education Brucelee Sterile LUP Football JR 3.8 Miami, FL Business Management Maximilian Glodde WSSU Men’s Tennis SR 3.98 Potsdam, Germany Economics & Finance Dallin Gray FSU Football SO 3.95 Colorado Springs, CO Chemistry Jasmine Nixon BSU Volleyball SO 3.80 Middletown, NY Psychology Kathryn Tokarski SAC VB/SB/T&F JR 3.81 Saskatchewan, CAN Human Performance Shermaine Williams JCSU Track & Field SR 3.77 St. Andrew, Jamaica Biology
School Legend
BSU- Bowie State University
CU- Chowan University
FSU- Fayetteville State University
JCSU- Johnson C. Smith University
LC- Livingstone College
LUP-Lincoln University (PA)
SAC- St. Augustine’s College
SU- Shaw University
VSU- Virginia State University
VUU- Virginia Union University
WSSU-Winston-Salem State University
Saint Augustine’s ran their way to the top of this year’s team with three student-athletes from each squad represented. Saint Augustine’s College was headlined by Allison Sikes (Richmond, VA) and Orolando Duffus (St. Catherine, Jamaica). Both student-athletes earned spots on the first team. Sikes, a member of the SAC women’s basketball program, was this year’s CIAA Women’s Basketball Player of the Year and was a three-time All-CIAA selection. She graduated Magna Cum Laude earlier this month. Duffus maintains a 3.92 GPA in Business Administration while also sporting Five NCAA DII Track & Field All American titles. Duffus is a two time member of the CIAA Commissioner’s Scholar-Athlete Team. Duffus was named last year’s CIAA Scholar-Athlete of the Year.
JSCU’s Leford Green (St. Catherine, Jamaica) was named to the First Team for the Golden Bulls. The All-American Track & Field athlete is a three-time member of the CIAA Commissioner’s All-Academic Team. The senior, Information Systems Engineering major, has maintained a 3.776 grade point average. He was named an Indoor All-American after winning the 400m National Title and was on the 4 X 400m team that took home the national indoor title.
Shaw University also placed two student-athletes of the First Team in Kalada Kienka (Lagos, Nigeria), Lolia Kienda (Lagos, Nigeria). Kalada Kienka has compiled a 3.95 overall grade point average in Computer Science. He was named Shaw’s Outstanding Student in Computer Science, an award usually reserved for senior ranking students. He was also named to the All-CIAA Men’s Tennis Team after helping his team win their seventh straight conference championships. Lolia Kienka was named to the CIAA Women’s Tennis Team after going 16-0 in conference play and maintains a 3.92 GPA in Business/International Relations.
Allie Kolezynski (Strongsville, OH) represents Chowan on the First Team this year. She was named First Team All-CIAA for softball after helping lead her team to a regular season championship. She has maintained a 3.97 grade point average in Business Administration. She was named All-CIAA for softball two years in a row and is a two time member of the CIAA Scholar-Athlete Team. Chowan’s Tricia Gorman (Ambridge, PA) was also named to the team after being named the CIAA Softball Player of the Year. Gorman led all of NCAA DII in RBI this year and maintained a 3.51 GPA in Psychology.
Justin Parker (Petersburg, VA) led the CIAA’s Field Goal category for the 2010 season. This Presidential Scholar with a 3.76 GPA in HPER, finished 8 for 8 (100 pct.) in field goals with a long of 40 yards. He also ranked 2nd in PAT kicking, 32-34 at 94 pct. Parker won the 2011 CIAA Special Teams Player of the Year and was named to the ALL-CIAA Football First Team.
WSSU’s Travis Taylor (Newberry, SC) was instrumental in the Rams football program’s success this season as an offensive lineman. He helped the Rams roll up more than 2,000 rushing yards and 1,999 passing yards anchoring the offensive line. Taylor has a 3.75 GPA in Political Science.
VSU’s Rhon’Neisha Taylor (Nashville, TN) is a two-time member of the team. She helped the Lady Trojans to NCAA post season play after averaging 17.7 points an outing. She was named this year’s Lowe’s Senior Class Award winner and maintains a 3.44 GPA in Sport Management.
The CIAA Commissioner’s Scholar-Athlete Second Team is made up of ten deserving athletes, led by Sarah Danaher (Waitsfield, VT) who maintained a 4.0 GPA in French/Secondary Education. She was Lincoln’s best bowler this season. Livingstone’s Bryan Acoth (Salisbury, NC) has a 3.87 GPA in Biology and led the Blue Bear defense with 67 tackles. BSU’s Jasmine Nixon (Middletown, NY) led the Lady Bulldogs volleyball team in kills and points this season while also maintaining a 3.8 GPA in Psychology.
VUU”s Adidias Arrington (Norfolk, VA) led the Panthers in total tackles with 85 this season. He was an All-CIAA performer and a two-time member of the CIAA Scholar-Athlete Team. He has a 3.56 GPA in Sport Management. JCSU’s Shermaine Williams (St. Andrew, Jamaica earned a spot on the team. Williams helped lead the Lady Golden Bulls to their first-ever CIAA Championship in Track & Field this year. She was an Indoor All-American and this year’s CIAA Outdoor MVP. She has a 3.776 GPA in Biology. Brucelee Sterile (Miami, FL) was named to the team after being named Lincoln’s Male Athlete of the Year. Sterile maintained a 3.8 GPA in Business Management. He was an All CIAA performer at linebacker for the Lions this season and a NCAA Super Region Second Team member.
SAC’s Kathryn Tokarski (Saskatchewan, CAN) was a three-sport athlete for the Lady Falcons and maintained a 3.818 GPA in Human Performance & Wellness. She starred on the SAC volleyball team, softball team, and the track & field team. She was a CIAA First Team member for volleyball and claimed the CIAA Outdoor Championships Javelin title. The Falcons also placed Christopher Copeland (Suffolk ,V A) on the team. He is a five-time NCAA Outdoor Track & Field All-American and claimed both Indoor and Outdoor CIAA high jump titles this season. He has a 3.668 GPA in Sport Management.
FSU’s Dallin Gray (Mebane, NC) rounds out this year’s team. Gray was the starting tight end on the Bronco’s football team this year. He has a 3.95 GPA in Physical Education. This season he caught four touchdowns led the tight end position in total receiving this year.
The CIAA Commissioner’s All-Academic Team is voted on by the CIAA Sports Information Directors’ Association and is in its 14th year. To be eligible for the team a student-athlete must have completed one academic year at a CIAA institution, earned a minimum 3.2 grade point average, and have excelled as a starter or significant reserve in a CIAA sanctioned sport.
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — Five teams of Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association athletes hit the water and scaled walls as part of their training in April at the U.S. Navy SEALs’ Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Chowan University, Saint Paul’s College, Bowie State University, Saint Augustine’s College and Virginia State University players all got a taste of the rigors of training with the SEALs in a 12-foot-deep, Olympic-size pool and on the Naval Special Warfare Group 2 Confidence Course, a 17-station land obstacle course.
The training—part of a “Mental Toughness, Never Quit” campaign conducted by the SEALs for CIAA schools—occurred April 16-17. The event was a follow-up to on-campus seminars at the CIAA schools in February and March.
The “Mental Toughness, Never Quit” program, focusing on schools in the CIAA—the nation’s oldest black athletic conference, established in 1912—was developed as part of the Naval Special Warfare’s effort to attract top minority talent. More than 1,000 athletes from 11 schools attended the on-campus “Mental Toughness” seminars.
The goal of “Mental Toughness, Never Quit”—which includes goal-setting, visualization, positive self talk and 4x4x4 breathing skills—is to provide valuable training to athletes while making them aware of potential career opportunities within the SEAL Teams. The SEALs provided players with a unique look into how mental preparation is essential to winning.
Navy SEALs are a special breed of warrior who conduct special operations in any environment, but who are uniquely trained and equipped to operate from, around and in maritime areas. SEALs take their name from the environments in which they are trained to operate: sea, air and land. Their small highly trained teams usually work quietly at night conducting some of the nation's most important missions. SEALs are constantly deployed throughout the world to protect U.S. national interests.
Charlotte, NC -- In a closed-door meeting of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Board of Directors, the group of thirteen presidents and chancellors received a report from Saint Paul’s College President, Dr. Robert L. Satcher, Sr. of the action taken last Thursday by the SPC Board of Trustees to discontinue its athletic program.
On behalf of the CIAA Board of Directors, Chairman and Livingstone College President, Dr. Jimmy R. Jenkins, Sr. “received the report with sadness, but also recognizes that since the college is no longer participating in collegiate athletics, it will not continue as a member of the CIAA. In accordance with that fact, the Board acknowledges that the CIAA’s Two-Year Transfer Rule will no longer prove relevant for Saint Paul’s College student-athletes who wish to transfer to any CIAA school.”
The Two-Year Transfer Rule is instituted when a student-athlete transfers between two conference member institutions. The discontinuance of the college’s membership cancels the effect of this rule.
**LAWRENCEVILLE, VA — (May 09, 2011) At its recent Spring Meeting, The Saint Paul’s College Board of Trustees took a bold step towards restoring financial stability to the 123 year old historical Episcopal College. The Board resolved to discontinue the entire Athletic Program at the College, effective July 1, 2011. The Administration is establishing a time schedule for implementation of the resolution with regard to its effect on the student body and their moral responsibility to the Athletic Staff. There was no doubt that once the College becomes financially stable again, consideration would be given to reinstating the Athletic Program.
While the Board of Trustees acknowledged that some notable progress has been made in the financial affairs under the current administration, in that the College has achieved a balanced budget twice in the last three years; however, the longstanding financial problems have yet to be remedied. Also, the U. S. Department of Education and the accrediting agency, SACSCOC have acknowledged some improvement in the financial affairs of the College.
Meanwhile, Dr. Robert L. Satcher, Sr., President and his Executive Cabinet have begun establishing a time schedule for the College to implement a full-scale Intramural Program for its students.
The 123-year old school fielded 7 men's and women's teams and was a member of the CIAA.
Hampton, VA -- It is with much sadness that the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) has learned of the dissolution of the athletic program at St. Paul’s College. The CIAA remains dedicated to the welfare of each affected student-athlete and will make every effort to protect their interests.
In anticipation of the discussion of this matter at the CIAA Board of Directors’ meeting slated for this week, the conference and Commissioner will wait to make any official comment until after its conclusion.
If you know how to swim, raise your hand. Most of the 36 black college football players gathered around the indoor pool at Little Creek on Saturday lifted their hands in response to the SEAL's directive.
"When we say 'swim,' " Master Chief Shawn Johnson added, "we mean, 'If we put you in that pool right now, could you tread water for five minutes?' " The young men looked at one another. All but four hands dropped. "That's OK," Johnson said. "We can work with that."
Minutes later, the Chowan University athletes were in the water, practicing the sidestroke, navigating obstacles and learning how to use their clothes as flotation devices.
They were among hundreds of athletes from a dozen colleges in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association who have signed on to train with the SEALs this month at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. Photo Gallary: View all 4 photos
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - After six years in Charlotte, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association has made one thing clear: It’s a slam dunk for local hotelsand restaurants.
Economic impact grew to $44.3 million for the CIAA this year, a 19% increase over 2010, according to figures compiled by the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority. The 2011 tournament ended March 5.
“This is a great time for the CIAA,” CIAA Commissioner Leon Kerry said in prepared remarks. “Not only have we reached the goals we set for this year’s tournament, but we’ve continued to raise the bar to provide our alumni and fans with a new and exciting experience each and every year.”
CIAA Tournament Soars to New Heights
HAMPTON, Va. – The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association’s (CIAA) 66th annual men’s and women’s basketball tournament soared to new heights in 2011 by breaking previous economic impact and attendance records.
According to the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA), the 2011 CIAA Tournament accounted for a total economic impact of $44.3 million* over the six-day Tournament period; a 19 percent increase from 2010. Overall attendance for official CIAA and Uptown functions increased to over 190,000** as the multitude of event options continued to bring fans to the area. The Tournament is unique in its ability to draw loyal fans from across the country who continue to support the Conference, as well as, those who just want to be “part of the scene” – much like the Superbowl or NBA All-Star Weekend.
The CIAA increased its ticket revenue to $2 million, a five percent increase from 2010, maintaining the momentum through its loyal fans that view the Tournament week as an absolute must-attend annual event.
“Year-after-year we have seen the validation of Charlotte as a destination for the CIAA men’s and women’s basketball tournament and the reunion of its alumni, friends and family. Charlotte has embraced the CIAA, its history and its importance in the lives of those who attend,” said Tim Newman, CEO of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority. “We are so fortunate to have grown this not only into a $44 million record year in 2011 in terms of economic impact to the Charlotte region, but one that we can truly say has initiated lifelong friendships and memories.”
The week-long Tournament made Charlotte its home in 2006 and together the CIAA and the city of Charlotte have produced a series of successful tournaments for the member schools, its fans and sponsors, and the local community. The CIAA’s marquee event showcased its rich tradition and prestige as the Conference celebrated 99 years of existence in 2011 as a prelude to the CIAA’s 100th anniversary celebration – February 27 through March 3, 2012 in Charlotte.
“This is a great time for the CIAA. Not only have we reached the goals we set for this year’s Tournament, but we’ve continued to raise the bar to provide our alumni and fans with a new and exciting experience each and every year, none of which is possible without the help of our corporate sponsors and our partners in Charlotte,” says Leon Kerry, CIAA Commissioner. “The CIAA is excited with the momentum we have generated leading into the CIAA’s 100th anniversary celebration in 2012. We have the support of our loyal fans, member institutions and sponsors. As a team, we’re constantly enhancing the Tournament and affiliated activities to ensure the ‘CIAA Experience’ is as strong as ever.”
The CIAA generated $1.55 million in scholarship dollars, which will be split amongst the 13 member institutions providing educational opportunities for students to attend any CIAA school.
The CIAA welcomed back Winston Salem State University and Lincoln University (PA) during the 2011 Tournament. The Tournament also proved successful from a corporate standpoint, as sponsor support and activation programs remained active with the addition of Toyota as the CIAA’s new automotive partner.
March 5, 2011 Games at Time Warner Cable Arena, Charlotte, N.C. CIAA Tournament Finals March 5, 2011 Women's Championship Shaw University 62 --CIAA Champions Johnson C. Smith University 56 March 5, 2011 Men's Championship Livingstone College 69
Shaw University 72 --CIAA Tournament Champions
(Television: ESPNU Delayed Broadcast at 12:30 AM, Sunday)
Videographer: FWithers
March 4, 2011 Women's Games
Saint Augustine's College 65 Shaw University 74 Bowie State University 64
Johnson C. Smith University 69
March 4, 2011 Men's Games Johnson C. Smith University 69 Shaw University 82
Fayetteville State University 71 Livingstone College 81
March 3, 2011 Men's Scores
Elizabeth City State University 48 Shaw University 71 Livingstone College 59 Virginia Union University 58 Fayetteville State 66 Winston-Salem State 63 Johnson C. Smith 82
Bowie State 66 March 2, 2011, CIAA Men's Basketball Tournament Scores
Lincoln (Pa.) 43 Shaw University 67
Fayetteville State University 74 Virginia State University 58
Saint Augustine's College 51 Elizabeth City State University 65
Chowan University 60 Johnson C. Smith University 67
Leon Kerry never set out to be the commissioner of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association. It just kind of happened.
But as he and the rest of the CIAA settle in this week in Charlotte for the annual women's and men's basketball tournaments, Kerry will be in his element. He loves tournament week because it's the culmination of the conference's long-standing commitment to putting on a good show.
And as the tournaments have grown, Kerry, as much as anybody, knows it's about more than just basketball.
"We've changed the way people envision sports at Division II," Kerry said of the CIAA Tournaments, which will start today with women's games. "Everybody is trying to do what we do with having an event, having functions around the event and getting the fans and alumni involved.
But experts question whether week's events bring in as much money as authority estimates.
Taxpayers will spend more than $500,000 to support the CIAA tournament that starts today - more than any other sporting event in Charlotte this year.
Backers say the incentives make sense because the CIAA brings in thousands of visitors who fill area restaurants, hotels and bars. This year, more than 100,000 are expected to descend on uptown for a week of parties, a beauty pageant, social gatherings and basketball.
In all, the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority predicts the event will pump $40 million into the local economy. But experts question whether that number is inflated.
CIAA equals entertainment with countless parties and performances taking place throughout the week. Some of that entertainment just happens to be homegrown, with three of next Friday's concerts featuring stars with Charlotte roots.
We spoke to performers Anthony Hamilton and Sunshine Anderson, who play the Fillmore, and Godfather of Go-Go Chuck Brown, who plays Amos' Southend - about CIAA, Charlotte, music and sports.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Thousands of people are descending on Charlotte for the start of the 2011 CIAA basketball tournament.
The first game in the tournament begins Monday at 1 p.m., but many who will attend have already arrived in Charlotte. Signs for the tournament have popped up all around the Queen City advertising the tournament. Organizers said ticket sales are up from last year.
Tom Grabowski, a CIAA organizer, said this year the tournament could bring in about $38 million to the local economy and 175,000 visitors to Charlotte.
At one end of the basketball court in the R.L. Vaughan Center are team photos for the Elizabeth City State teams. In the men’s basketball picture, one of the biggest smiles belongs to Perquimans graduate Michael Bonner. Although he didn’t know it then, it was the only time Bonner would put on an ECSU uniform.
Since then, Bonner has been getting a raw deal. And that is about as nice as I can put it and get it past my editors.
He should be playing with the Vikings and contributing as they make a run in the final weeks of the season. Instead, Bonner is watching the games from the stands. Always with a smile on his face...
Please pass the link to this story "Harris: Does anyone care about Michael Bonner?"on to your friends and let us all assist this deserving student-athlete in receiving a fair decision from CIAA Commissioner Leon G. Kerry.
ECSU beat writer Will Harris of the Daily Advance Newspaper is on point -- that student Michael Bonner has received a raw deal from the professionals that he and his family trusted to provide the proper guidance for both his academic and athletic careers. Why should he suffer for their incompetency?
Will you help by bringing political pressure on the CIAA Commissioner's Office to provide Mr. Michael Bonner with a quick waiver of this silly two-year rule, that should not be applied to the Winston Salem State University situation? Please express your support and ask the Commissioner to render a decision, now, that is long overdue to Mr. Bonner and his family.
You may contact the CIAA commissioner's office at:
Mr. Leon Kerry, Commissioner E-mail: LeonKerry@aol.com Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Post Office Box 7349
22 Enterprise Parkway, Suite 210
Hampton, Virginia 23666
E-Mail: TheCIAA@aol.com
Office: 757-865-0071
Fax: 757-865-8436
We appreciate your support and assistance on this effort for this deserving CIAA student-athlete. Thank you. beepbeep
P.S. If this was my son, I would be breaking out a can of whoop ass on the Commissioner's office -- but I won't go there today.
Amtrak sponsors multi-city tour and continues sponsorship of CIAA Tournament Stepshow at Charlotte Convention Center
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Amtrak is the proud title sponsor of the CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) Stepshow Campus Tour visiting 13 Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU) campuses throughout Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia, January 18-27, 2011. The tour will end at the 2011 CIAA Tournament Stepshow at the Charlotte Convention Center on March 4, 2011 where Amtrak is also a sponsor.
"Amtrak is excited to serve as title sponsor of the CIAA Stepshow Campus Tour," said Sharon Gilbert, Amtrak Field Marketing Manager for North and South Carolina. "Combined with our continued sponsorship of the CIAA Stepshow at the Convention Center, Amtrak shows its commitment to the advancement of the HBCU community. Plus, this is fun!"
Campus stops will include music, entertainment, games, prizes and give-a-ways to the CIAA Tournament and Stepshow. Amtrak will visit the following 13 CIAA-affiliated HBCU campuses:
Elizabeth City State University / Fayetteville State
Saint Augustine College / Shaw University / Livingstone College
Johnson C. Smith University / Saint Paul's College / Virginia State University
Virginia Union University / Bowie State University / Chowan University
Lincoln University / Winston Salem State University
During the Stepshow on March 4, attendees will also get a chance to play an Amtrak mobile trivia game on the Convention Center's jumbotron for a free trip on Amtrak.
For more information about the tour, stepshow and tickets please visit www.earthquakeproductions.net. Visit Amtrak's African American microsite, MyBlackJourney.com for more information on Amtrak's work in the African American community.
About Amtrak: Amtrak is America's Railroads, the nation's intercity passenger rail provider and its only high-speed rail operator. A record 28.7 million passengers traveled on Amtrak in FY 2010 on more than 300 daily trains - at speeds up to 150 mph (241 kph) - that connect 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian Provinces. Amtrak operates trains in partnership with 15 states and four commuter rail agencies. Amtrak also is a strong financial performer achieving an 85 percent cost-recovery ratio in FY 2010. Enjoy the journeysm at Amtrak.com or call 800-USA-RAIL for schedules, fares and more information. Join us on Facebook at facebook.com/Amtrak and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Amtrak.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - The CIAA isn't going anywhere. That's the word from the head of the tournament after Charlotte's NAACP called for major sporting events to boycott the city it calls a "bastion of racism".
Leon Kerry, commissioner of the CIAA, is very happy with the tournament being held in the Queen City. Kerry posted a statement on their web site Wednesday night which reads, in part: "Charlotte is a great partner and host city for the CIAA Tournament. Charlotte's can do spirit and teamwork has contributed vastly to the growth and success the Tournament has experienced."
The hugely popular tournament is contracted to be in Charlotte until 2014. Kerry also said "since the tournament's move to Charlotte in 2006, the CIAA has generated over $9 million in scholarship dollars for graduating high school students to attend any CIAA school."
From the Desk of CIAA Commissioner Leon G. Kerry Regarding the Proposed NAACP Boycott of the City of Charlotte
January 19, 2011
“Charlotte is a great partner and host city for the CIAA Tournament,” say CIAA Commissioner, Leon Kerry. “Since the Tournament’s move to Charlotte in 2006, the CIAA has generated over $9 million in scholarship dollars for graduating high school students to attend any CIAA school. Through our Education Day event, Charlotte area high school and middle school students have direct access to college admissions counselors to discuss their educational pursuits. Also, in our 2010 CIAA Post-Tournament survey results, 94 percent of our fans recommend the ‘CIAA Charlotte Experience’, which measures the city’s safety, hospitality and friendliness. Charlotte’s can do spirit and teamwork has contributed vastly to the growth and success the Tournament has experienced and it’s evident when the CIAA Board of Directors voted unanimously on November 1, 2010 to renew the CIAA Tournament contract with Charlotte until 2014.”
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Charlotte chapter of the NAACP won the support Wednesday of the organization's state leaders for a letter-writing campaign urging major sports organizations not to hold their events in the city.
Kojo Nantambu, president of the Charlotte NAACP, first suggested the campaign Monday during a march to protest Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools' decision to hold classes on the holiday which honors Martin Luther King Jr. CMS approved the holiday two years ago as a possible snow make-up day, and the plan was activated after last week's winter storm shut down schools for three days.
Dr. William Barber, president of the North Carolina chapter of the NAACP, said Wednesday...
At a Martin Luther King Jr. Day protest over school policies, the head of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg NAACP Monday announced a campaign to urge the CIAA basketball tournament and other groups to boycott the city.
Pledging to "expose Charlotte for the racist bastion it is," NAACP President Kojo Nantambu announced a drive to keep the CIAA, NCAA, PGA "and any other 'A'" from coming to Charlotte. He also said his group would ask the national NAACP to consider asking the Democratic Party not to hold its 2012 convention in Charlotte.
His comments came just before he led about 100 people on a march through uptown to protest the decision by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to hold classes on the King holiday to make up one of three days lost to snow last week.
Winston-Salem State has a long and deep basketball tradition, and Athletics Director Bill Hayes wants the younger generation to know about it. Hayes has planned a “homecoming-like event” on Jan. 21-22 to highlight that tradition and to bring it to life.
Past greats such as Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, Cleo Hill and Ted Blunt are expected to attend the school’s first Legacy Weekend — an event Hayes hopes to hold annually to showcase the accomplishments of WSSU’s basketball greats.
Rams Legacy class • Ted Blunt (1962-65): Played on 1963 CIAA championship team; third-team NAIA All-America in 1964. • Jack DeFares (1955-57): Known as the “Kangaroo Kid,” helped Rams to 1957 CIAA title; All-CIAA three times. • George Foree (1959-62): Along with Cleo Hill, helped WSSU to CIAA titles in 1960 and ’61; NAIA third-team All-America. • Cleo Hill (1958-61): Considered by many to be the best player in WSSU history; first-team NAIA All-America in 1961; first-round NBA Draft pick by the St. Louis Hawks in 1961. • Earl Monroe (1964-67): All-time scoring leader in CIAA history (2,935 points); helped WSSU win the 1966-67 Division II national championship; NBA Hall of Famer; voted one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history. • Chellia Nelson (1994-97): All-CIAA three times; ranks No. 3 in WSSU women’s basketball history with 1,434 points. • Carolyn Huntley (1984-87): Only women’s player in school history to be All-CIAA four straight years; school’s career scoring leader (1,617 points).
“We want to hang those jerseys up here in the Gaines Center,” Hayes said. “As you see, we have that one tiny Earl Monroe jersey up there, and that’s it. It’s too small, so we feel like it’s important to let the young kids see the great ones that played here before.”
WSSU has 23 banners hanging in the Gaines Center, all marking team accomplishments such as CIAA titles, NAIA titles and the 1966-67 NCAA Division II national championship. The jerseys that will eventually...
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association voted unanimously Monday on a three-year extension that will keep its prestigious basketball tournament in Charlotte through 2014.
Commissioner Leon Kerry told The Associated Press the Division II league of mostly historically black colleges and universities decided to stray from past history and hold the event in the same spot for nine straight years.
"We usually move the tournament every six years," Kerry said. "We're here because the fans love Charlotte. They like the arena, they like the things you can do in Charlotte. And we did a survey and I think 98 percent of the fans said they'd return to Charlotte."
Hampton, VA -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Fall Championship Weekend begins on November 4th. This year's Volleyball Championship Luncheon will be held at the Newport News Marriott at the City Center on Thursday, November 4th; 12:30pm. Craig Lenniger, Tour Commissioner of the Stop.Watch.Sports Volleyball Summer Series and Beach Volleyball Leagues will address this year's attendees.
Day one of volleyball championship pool play will begin on Friday, November 5, 2010 at the Boo Williams Sportsplex, Hampton, Virginia. Friday match times: 9:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 5:00pm, 7:00pm. Saturday - Volleyball Clinic- 1:00-3:00pm - Open to the Public! Saturday - Semi-Finals match times: 5:00pm, 7:00pm Sunday - Championship: 1:00pm READ MORE, CLICK TITLE. RELATED LINK: www.theciaa.com CIAA Member Institutions NORTHERN DIVISION Bowie State Chowan Elizabeth City State Lincoln (PA) Saint Paul's Virginia State Virginia Union SOUTHERN DIVISION Fayetteville State Johnson C. Smith Livingstone Saint Augustine's Shaw Winston-Salem State
Winston-Salem State could be playing a future conference opponent Saturday when UNC Pembroke visits Bowman Gray Stadium.
UNC Pembroke officials, including Athletics Director Dan Kenney, continue to explore options about joining a conference for football. UNCP fields teams in 16 sports, and 14 play in the Peach Belt Conference. The football and wrestling teams compete as Division II independents. Kenney said that he and Commissioner Leon Kerry of the CIAA have had several conversations.
Winston-Salem State will have a chance Saturday to do something it has done only once this season — defeat a team with a winning record.
UNC Pembroke (5-2) will visit Bowman Gray Stadium for a 1:30 kickoff. WSSU is ranked 21st in the Division II coaches poll. UNCP is currently unranked but was as high as No. 14 in September.
The Rams are 7-1, with their only loss to St. Augustine’s (4-1 when it played WSSU, now 6-1 and ranked 24th). The seven wins came against teams that were a combined 3-14 when they played the Rams and are now a combined 10-39.
CIAA Winston Salem State 49, Johnson C. Smith 3 Saint Augustine's 42, Fayetteville State 36 Shaw 34, Livingstone 0 Chowan 35, Virginia Union 34 Elizabeth City State 30, Saint Paul's 12 Virginia State 16, Bowie State 15
SIAC Albany State 43, Lane 13 Tuskegee 51, Miles 0 E. Kentucky 58, Kentucky State 7 Fort Valley State 41, Benedict 13 Clark Atlanta 19, Stillman 14
SWAC Mississippi State 49, Alcorn State 16 Texas Southern 21, Alabama State 7 Arkansas Pine Bluff 41, Southern 23 Grambling State 25, Alabama A&M 22 Prairie View A&M 34, Mississippi Valley 13 Jackson State (Bye)
MEAC South Carolina State 19, Florida A&M 0 Bethune Cookaman 69, Morgan State 32 Howard 28, Lincoln (Pa.) 14 Tennessee State 37, North Carolina A&T 7 (Circle City Classic) Liberty 52, Savannah State 14 Hampton 20, Delaware State 14 (Thursday) Norfolk State, North Carolina Central (Bye)
South Carolina State University's Marching 101 will take on Norfolk State University's Spartan Legion in the "Man vs. Beast: Brawl in the Burg" band battle. The event will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8, at Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center on the campus of S.C. State.
Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. For more information or tickets, call 803-536-8579, 1-800-298-9157 or 803-533-3691.
