Twelve institutions currently comprise the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). Two of its most lauded members, Bowie State University and Fayetteville State University, competed in the 2021 CIAA Football Championship on November 13 at the Salem Football Stadium. While the BSU Bulldogs won their third straight conference title by defeating the FSU Golden Bulls 17-7, last Saturday’s event was much more than just a football game. It was, as attendee and Bowie State graduate Khalil Johnson explained, “an opportunity to expose the Roanoke Valley community to what the CIAA experience truly is.” In addition to the school’s marching bands competing against each other, there were also tailgating festivities, food available for purchase, merchandise sold and much more. Photos by Shawn Nowlin.Some of April Clark’s earliest childhood memories consist of going with her parents to see HBCU marching bands and cheerleaders compete against each other. Last Saturday, Clark, 44, brought her teenage daughter to the game, primarily so the two could bond over the action not on the field. While it was no easy feat to accomplish, both ultimately agreed that while the BSU cheerleaders displayed more enthusiasm, the FSU cheerleaders were more coordinated. The story of CIAA athletics in recent years can’t be told without the City of Salem. In addition to the football title, the Championship City has also hosted youth clinics, cross country meets and more. More coverage in the sports section.
