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Tag: Winston-Salem State University

  • Winston-Salem State Track Repeats as CIAA Champions

    The Winston-Salem State (WSSU) Rams are once again on top of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)! The women’s track and field team clinched their second consecutive conference championship title at the 2026 CIAA Outdoor Track and Field Championship, held at Rogers Stadium on the campus of Virginia State University.

    A Dominant Performance for Back-to-Back Titles

    WSSU amassed an impressive 130 points to secure the victory, narrowly holding off strong challenges from Claflin University (125 points) and Fayetteville State University (101 points). This win marks the Rams’ fifth CIAA outdoor championship in program history, solidifying their status as a dominant force in the conference. Previous titles were won in 2017, 2019, 2022 (co-champions), 2025, and now 2026, showcasing a remarkable period of sustained success.

    Head Coach Antonio Wells was recognized as the Women’s Coach of the Year for his leadership in guiding the Rams to this repeat championship. Wells emphasized that repeating as champions is never easy, especially with the target of defending champion on their backs. The Rams’ victory was a testament to their depth, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure.

    Depth and Balance Fueled the Championship Run

    Entering the final day of competition, WSSU was in second place, trailing Fayetteville State by a narrow margin. However, the Rams showcased incredible balance, earning points across sprints, hurdles, distance events, jumps, throws, and relays. This depth was crucial in a meet where every point counted, from podium finishes to crucial points earned in lower placements.

    The team achieved eight podium finishes overall, a testament to their well-rounded performance. This depth allowed them to overcome the pressure and defend their title, proving that their success is built on a strong team effort rather than relying on a single star athlete.

    Individual Brilliance and Key Performances

    Rainn Sheppard was a standout performer for the Rams, delivering crucial points and setting school records. On the first day, she won the 1500 meters with a season-best time of 4:31.94, and followed up on day two by winning the 800 meters in 2:09.75. These victories provided a significant boost and demonstrated Sheppard’s readiness for championship-level competition.

    The Rams also dominated in the field events, with Lanyjah Gunter winning the long jump (5.93 meters) and Charnessa Reid taking second with the same mark. Reid further contributed with strong performances in the hurdles (second place) and high jump (fourth place). Layla Simpson also added valuable points in the 100-meter hurdles and triple jump, showcasing the team’s depth across multiple disciplines.

    Sprints, Relays, and Throws Seal the Deal

    In the sprints, Asheika Smith, Olivia Cosby, Leigh Wills, and Brianna Benloss contributed essential points. Smith finished third in the 400 meters, Cosby took fourth, and Wills earned an eighth-place finish. Benloss secured third in the 100 meters and fifth in the 200 meters. The 4×400 relay team, featuring Cosby, Sheppard, Jaynissa Cauthen, and Smith, earned a crucial second-place finish, adding more podium points.

    The throws group also played a role in the championship effort. Leila Henderson finished second in the discus, with Kaylee Thomas adding a seventh-place finish. Henderson also scored in the shot put, and Maeghan Wallace contributed in the javelin. This all-around contribution across running and field events highlights the complete nature of the WSSU team.

    A Strong Statement for HBCU Women’s Track

    The Winston-Salem State championship is a significant moment for HBCU women’s track and field, underscoring the high level of talent and competition within the CIAA. These athletes balance rigorous training and academics while representing their institutions with pride. The Rams’ repeat title demonstrates a program that has built a standard of excellence, capable of winning through depth and consistent performance across all event areas.

    Having won back-to-back titles, Winston-Salem State has established itself as a benchmark in the conference. The question now is not if they can reach the top, but how long they can maintain their reign as CIAA champions. Their success serves as an inspiration and a testament to the dedication and talent thriving in HBCU athletics.

    What are your thoughts on Winston-Salem State’s repeat championship victory? Share your congratulations in the comments below!

  • Jay Butler Hired as WSSU Rams Basketball Coach

    Get ready for a shake-up in the CIAA! Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) isn’t playing around with its basketball program’s future. They’ve officially tapped Lester “Jay” Butler, a coach known for winning within the conference, to take the helm as the new head men’s basketball coach. This move signals a serious commitment to rebuilding and climbing back to prominence.

    A Statement Hire for a Program in Need

    The Rams are coming off a tough 2025-26 season, finishing with a 7-19 overall record and struggling in conference play with a 2-14 CIAA record, ending the year on a 13-game losing streak. This wasn’t a situation calling for minor adjustments; it demanded a coach with a proven track record in the same competitive landscape. Butler, who arrives from conference rival Virginia Union, fits that bill perfectly.

    WSSU’s announcement emphasizes that Butler was chosen to lead the Rams into their “next era of excellence.” This isn’t placeholder language; it suggests the university believes they’ve found someone capable of fundamentally changing the program’s trajectory. Butler brings over two decades of NCAA Division II head coaching experience, boasting an impressive 372-239 career record, nine 20-win seasons, and eight NCAA tournament appearances.

    Proven Success and a Focus on Development

    Butler’s familiarity with the CIAA is a significant advantage. He spent the last 11 seasons at Virginia Union, transforming it into one of the conference’s most consistently respected programs. In the 2025-26 season alone, his Virginia Union team went 25-6, made another NCAA Division II tournament appearance, and Butler earned his third CIAA Coach of the Year award. His team also excelled academically, winning the CIAA Team High Academic Award.

    This combination of on-court success and academic achievement is exactly what WSSU was looking for. The university stressed the importance of a leader who could foster competitiveness while developing young men both on and off the court. Butler’s recent accolades suggest he’s the right person to rebuild the program’s culture and shape its future.

    Honoring a Storied Legacy

    Winston-Salem State boasts one of the most historically significant basketball programs in Black college sports. The legendary 1967 team, led by Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, became the first Black college team to win an NCAA national title under Clarence “Big House” Gaines. This rich history means that a 7-19 season feels particularly out of sync with the program’s brand.

    Butler acknowledges this legacy, understanding the weight of expectation that comes with coaching the Rams. He’s stepping into a role where the standard is measured not just against recent performance, but against championship banners and legendary players. This hire signals that WSSU is ready to restore that standard.

    • Jay Butler named new head men’s basketball coach at WSSU.
    • Comes from CIAA rival Virginia Union with a strong winning record.
    • Boasts over 20 years of NCAA Division II head coaching experience.
    • Led Virginia Union to 25 wins and conference title in 2025-26.
    • Focus on competitiveness, player development, and academic success.

    Pulling Butler directly from a successful CIAA program like Virginia Union is a bold move. It shows WSSU wants immediate league fluency and proven success in recruiting and competing within the conference. While instant championship contention might be a stretch, expectations are clearly higher. The Rams should become more organized, recruit with more focus, and regain credibility within the CIAA. This hire is about more than filling a vacancy; it’s about restoring a proud tradition.

    What are your expectations for Jay Butler and the WSSU Rams basketball team moving forward? Do you think this hire will bring back the glory days? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • WSSU’s Red Sea of Sound to Perform at NBA Game

    Get ready for some serious HBCU pride! Winston-Salem State University’s legendary Red Sea of Sound Marching Band is set to bring their electrifying performance to the NBA hardwood. They’ve been tapped as the featured halftime act for the LA Clippers’ upcoming HBCU Night game.

    A National Stage for HBCU Excellence

    On April 2nd, the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, will host the LA Clippers versus the San Antonio Spurs. During the game’s halftime, the Red Sea of Sound will take center court, showcasing the incredible talent and rich tradition that HBCU marching bands are known for. This marks the first time the band will perform at this arena.

    Dr. Michael Magruder, the director of bands, expressed his excitement, calling it an “incredible opportunity to highlight the talent and tradition of our Red Sea of Sound on a national platform.” He proudly stated that the students represent the “very best of Winston-Salem State University” and are eager to share their excellence with a wider audience.

    More Than Just a Halftime Show

    The Clippers’ HBCU Night is designed to be an evening celebrating the vibrant culture of these institutions. Beyond the Red Sea of Sound’s performance, the event will feature a variety of programming, including live entertainment and alumni engagement, all aimed at recognizing the significant impact of HBCUs.

    Winston-Salem State University Chancellor Bonita J. Brown highlighted how such opportunities “underscore WSSU’s focus on expanding visibility, deepening community engagement and elevating the student experience.” She added that these moments “position students on national stages, reinforcing the university’s commitment to excellence and global impact.”

    Tickets and Fan Perks

    Basketball fans, marching band enthusiasts, and HBCU supporters can purchase tickets for this special night. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and ticket purchases include an exclusive LA Clippers HBCU Night Crewneck. This event promises to be a fantastic showcase of talent and community spirit.

    Are you excited to see the Red Sea of Sound perform at the NBA game? Let us know your favorite marching band moments in the comments below!