WRAL Sports Fan

WRALSportsFan

N.C. Central Celebrates 3 2006 CIAA Titles

Nov 14, 2006

DURHAM, N.C. — A tradition of excellence was honored at North Carolina Central University on Tuesday. Last Saturday, the Eagles football team beat Elizabeth City State to go 11-0 for the year. They joined the women's volleyball and cross-country teams as 2006 CIAA champions.

"Let's go out and continue to support the Eagles, as we go on our way now to gain national championships for our athletic programs," said NCCU Chancellor James Ammons.

The most excitement has been generated by the football team and coach Rod Broadway, who orchestrated the school's second straight CIAA championship and the school's first undefeated regular season.

"We talked all year about doing something that's never been done before, and that's made memories of a lifetime for our seniors," Broadway said. "Those guys will be 50 years old, and they will remember the championships that they've won here."

There will be plenty more dancing if the team pulls off its next goal.

"Our players are going to make an ultimate sacrifice," said NCCU Athletic Director Bill Hayes. "They're going to stay here and they're going to practice football on Thanksgiving Day. They're going to sacrifice a turkey dinner at home to win a national championship for all of us."

The NCAA Division II playoffs begin for the Eagles at 1 p.m. on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, when they play the winner of the Delta State/Elizabeth City State matchup at O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium in Durham.

• Reporter: Gerald Owens
• Photographer: Courtney Davis
• Web Editor: Dana Franks