Sports
Here's a look at documents from sports organizations
Featured Stories
United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee Launches Team USA Safe Online Platform to Strengthen Athlete Protection
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee issued the following news release:
* * *
United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee Launches Team USA Safe Online Platform to Strengthen Athlete Protection
The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee today announced the launch of Team USA Safe Online, a new platform developed in collaboration with online safety organization Moonshot to help athletes protect their privacy, security and well-being in the digital space.
The platform provides Team USA athletes, their families and National Governing Bodies with
... Show Full Article
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee issued the following news release:
* * *
United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee Launches Team USA Safe Online Platform to Strengthen Athlete Protection
The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee today announced the launch of Team USA Safe Online, a new platform developed in collaboration with online safety organization Moonshot to help athletes protect their privacy, security and well-being in the digital space.
The platform provides Team USA athletes, their families and National Governing Bodies withclear, evidence-based tools to address online harassment, AI-generated deepfakes, doxxing, intimate image abuse, and other emerging online threats. It includes step-by-step guidance for prevention, response and support, as well as resources for parents, coaches and agents.
"With Team USA Safe Online, we're enhancing and modernizing how we protect Team USA athletes," said Nicole Deal, USOPC Chief of Security & Athlete Services. "This collaboration with Moonshot ensures America's athletes can safely and confidently share their stories and celebrate their experiences while maintaining their privacy and mental well-being."
The initiative expands the collaboration between the USOPC and Moonshot to monitor and mitigate online abuse during major competitions through the Olympic and Paralympic Games Milano Cortina 2026, and beyond This is accomplished through a combination of automated monitoring, human expert review and content mitigation in partnership with social media platforms and law enforcement when necessary.
Team USA Safe Online complements the USOPC's broader athlete safety and well-being programs in collaboration with USOPC mental health resources, and including partnerships with the U.S. Center for SafeSport, The Athlete Survivors' Assist (formerly The Army of Survivors), and know2protect.
Team USA athletes can access the platform at Team USA Safe Online (https://teamusasafeonline.com/).
* * *
About USOPC
Founded in 1894 and headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee serves as both the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United States. The USOPC is focused on protecting, supporting and empowering America's athletes, and is responsible for fielding U.S. teams for the Olympic, Paralympic, Youth Olympic, Pan American and Parapan American Games, and serving as the steward of the Olympic and Paralympic movements in the U.S. For more information, visit TeamUSA.com. For more information on Team USA athlete benefits and resources, visit USOPC.org.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.usopc.org/news/2025/november/20/united-states-olympic-paralympic-committee-launches-team-usa-safe-online-platform-to-strengthen-athlete-protection
[Category: Sports]
NAIA Partners With The Good Game
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, Nov. 22 -- The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics posted the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
* * *
NAIA Partners with The Good Game
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has signed a partnership with The Good Game as the Official On-Demand Sports Lessons Platform, powered by NAIA Athletes and Coaches.
Through this partnership, NAIA institutions and their members gain access to The Good Game's platform, which connects athletes, parents, and coaches with verified sports experts for personalized lessons and training. Built-in
... Show Full Article
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, Nov. 22 -- The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics posted the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
* * *
NAIA Partners with The Good Game
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has signed a partnership with The Good Game as the Official On-Demand Sports Lessons Platform, powered by NAIA Athletes and Coaches.
Through this partnership, NAIA institutions and their members gain access to The Good Game's platform, which connects athletes, parents, and coaches with verified sports experts for personalized lessons and training. Built-inverification and reporting tools ensure compliance, transparency, and trust while expanding access to affordable, elevated athletic instruction nationwide.
"The NAIA represents everything that's right about college athletics--community, character, and opportunity," said Zarif Haque, founder and CEO of The Good Game. "This partnership goes beyond technology. It is about creating access, building trust, and empowering student-athletes and coaches to inspire others through the game they love."
The Good Game platform will enable NAIA student-athletes and coaches to book lessons and experiences safely with sports professionals, facilitating connections within their local communities and beyond.
"We look forward to the opportunities this partnership brings to modernize how sports expertise is shared," acknowledges Jim Carr, president and CEO. "The Good Game provides the structure and technology to help our members connect with their local communities and deliver training in a purposeful, secure, and meaningful way."
The agreement runs through October 2028. Sign-ups for sports experts open January 1, 2026.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS (NAIA)
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), headquartered in Kansas City, Mo., is a governing body of small athletics programs dedicated to character-driven intercollegiate athletics. NAIA members provide more than 83,000 student-athletes with opportunities to play college sports, earn $1.3 billion in financial aid from NAIA institutions, and compete in 29 national championships. naia.org | @NAIA
* * *
About The Good Game
The Good Game is a mobile-first sports technology platform that connects athletes, parents, and coaches through verified, on-demand lessons and experiences. With one-time registration benefits, the app enables access for everyone in youth sports to attend events, donate, or find earning opportunities. The app is available on iOS and Android platforms and will expand to select U.S. cities in 2026. Learn more at www.thegoodgame.com.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.naia.org/general/2025-26/Releases/The_Good_Game_Press_Release
[Category: Sports]
JCSU and VUU to Host First Round of NCAA Division II Football Championship
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 21 [Category: Sports] -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association issued the following news:
* * *
JCSU and VUU to Host First Round of NCAA Division II Football Championship
*
Charlotte, NC (November 21, 2025) The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association will make history this weekend as two CIAA football programs, Johnson C. Smith University and Virginia Union University, host first-round games in the 2025 NCAA Division II Football Championship. This marks the first time in conference history that multiple CIAA institutions have earned home postseason
... Show Full Article
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 21 [Category: Sports] -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association issued the following news:
* * *
JCSU and VUU to Host First Round of NCAA Division II Football Championship
*
Charlotte, NC (November 21, 2025) The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association will make history this weekend as two CIAA football programs, Johnson C. Smith University and Virginia Union University, host first-round games in the 2025 NCAA Division II Football Championship. This marks the first time in conference history that multiple CIAA institutions have earned home postseasoncontests in the same season.
Johnson C. Smith, the number two seed in Super Region One, will host Frostburg State University on Saturday, November 22 at 1:00 p.m. at Eddie McGirt Field inside the Irwin Belk Complex in Charlotte, North Carolina. Fresh off capturing their first CIAA title since 1969, the Golden Bulls enter the postseason with momentum, balance, and one of the region's strongest resumes. This appearance also marks JCSU's first NCAA playoff berth in more than five decades.
Virginia Union, seeded third in Super Region One, will welcome California Pennsylvania to Hovey Field in Richmond, Virginia on Saturday, November 22 at 1:00 p.m. The Panthers return to the NCAA stage after another standout season defined by physical play, defensive intensity, and consistent execution. With national experience and a proven identity, VUU heads into the postseason prepared to compete at the highest level.
Both games will stream live on ESPN+ as part of the NCAA Division II Championship coverage. Fans may also access broadcasts through the NCAA Championships Pass and at NCAA.com.
The CIAA proudly recognizes Johnson C. Smith and Virginia Union for advancing to the national postseason and elevating the conference on the championship stage.
Media Contact
Anna M. Butzlaff
Associate Commissioner, Strategic Communications
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)
abutzlaff@theciaa.com
About the CIAA
Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is the first, and longest running, African American athletic conference in the U.S. and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. The CIAA conducts 14 championships attended by more than 150,000 fans from around the country. The Basketball Tournament has been honored as a 2019 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management, the leading publication with the largest circulation of sports event planners and tournament directors in the sports tourism market, for both 2018 and 2019.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the CIAA is governed by the Presidents and Chancellors of its 12 member institutions: Bowie State University, Bluefield State University, Claflin University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Livingstone College, Shaw University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, and Winston Salem State University. For more information on the CIAA, visit theciaa.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
***
Original text here: https://theciaa.com/news/2025/11/20/about-the-ciaa-jcsu-and-vuu-to-host-first-round-of-ncaa-division-ii-football-championship.aspx
CIAA to be Represented at NCAA Leadership Forum
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 21 [Category: Sports] -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association issued the following news:
* * *
CIAA to be Represented at NCAA Leadership Forum
*
Charlotte, NC (November 21, 2025) - The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) proudly announces that Virginia State University track and field student-athlete Janiya Harmon, Shaw University football student-athlete Justin Wheeler, and Associate Athletic Director at Livingstone College Shannon Allen have been selected to participate in the NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum, scheduled for
... Show Full Article
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 21 [Category: Sports] -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association issued the following news:
* * *
CIAA to be Represented at NCAA Leadership Forum
*
Charlotte, NC (November 21, 2025) - The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) proudly announces that Virginia State University track and field student-athlete Janiya Harmon, Shaw University football student-athlete Justin Wheeler, and Associate Athletic Director at Livingstone College Shannon Allen have been selected to participate in the NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum, scheduled forNovember 20-23, 2025, in Dallas, TX.
Created in 1997, the NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum has served as a life-changing experience for more than 5,000 student-athletes and administrators, providing opportunities to grow personally and professionally. The forum equips participants with leadership skills, self-awareness, and the ability to build strong connections with peers across the country.
During the four-day program, attendees will:
* Clarify personal values and assess behavioral styles to strengthen communication.
* Explore how values and behaviors shape leadership styles.
* Engage in meaningful discussions on issues impacting student-athletes today.
* Learn about the inner workings of the NCAA and the role of Student-Athlete Advisory Committees (SAAC).
* Participate in a community service project and hear from dynamic keynote speakers.
One of the most impactful elements of the forum is the "color team" experience, where participants join small groups led by trained facilitators. These sessions foster open dialogue, diverse perspectives, and deep personal connections that often last long after the forum concludes.
"On behalf of the CIAA, we are incredibly proud of Janiya, Justin, and Shannon for being selected to represent our conference at the NCAA Leadership Forum," said CIAA Commissioner Jackie McWilliams-Parker. "This opportunity will not only enhance their personal and professional growth, but it will also allow them to bring back valuable insights to strengthen the student-athlete experience within the CIAA. Leadership development is core to our mission, and their participation reflects our continued commitment to preparing future leaders."
Following the program, participants will return to their campuses and the CIAA office with renewed energy, expanded networks, and actionable strategies to support student-athletes across the conference.
Media Contact:
Anna M. Butzlaff
Associate Commissioner, Strategic Communications
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)
abutzlaff@theciaa.com
About the CIAA
Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is the first, and longest running, African American athletic conference in the U.S. and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. The CIAA conducts 14 championships attended by more than 150,000 fans from around the country. The Basketball Tournament has been honored as a 2019 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management, the leading publication with the largest circulation of sports event planners and tournament directors in the sports tourism market, for both 2018 and 2019.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the CIAA is governed by the Presidents and Chancellors of its 12 member institutions: Bowie State University, Bluefield State University, Claflin University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Livingstone College, Shaw University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, and Winston-Salem State University. For more information on the CIAA, visit theciaa.com, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
***
Original text here: https://theciaa.com/news/2025/9/23/about-the-ciaa-ciaa-to-be-represented-at-ncaa-leadership-forum.aspx
U.S. Soccer Partners With Leading Industry Providers to Power the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center
ATLANTA, Georgia, Nov. 20 -- The U.S. Soccer Federation issued the following news:
* * *
U.S. Soccer Partners with Leading Industry Providers to Power the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center
Kwik Goal, FieldTurf, John Deere, True Natural Gas Join Musco Sports Lighting to Help Build the Future of the Game in the U.S. Way
(November 19, 2025) - U.S. Soccer is proud to announce the addition of three new Supporting Partners, Kwik Goal, FieldTurf, John Deere (in partnership with Beard Equipment),and one Supplier Partner, True Natural Gas, who join Musco Sports Lighting in powering
... Show Full Article
ATLANTA, Georgia, Nov. 20 -- The U.S. Soccer Federation issued the following news:
* * *
U.S. Soccer Partners with Leading Industry Providers to Power the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center
Kwik Goal, FieldTurf, John Deere, True Natural Gas Join Musco Sports Lighting to Help Build the Future of the Game in the U.S. Way
(November 19, 2025) - U.S. Soccer is proud to announce the addition of three new Supporting Partners, Kwik Goal, FieldTurf, John Deere (in partnership with Beard Equipment),and one Supplier Partner, True Natural Gas, who join Musco Sports Lighting in poweringthe construction and operation of the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center (NTC), the new home for soccer in the United States. These industry leaders are not simply supplying equipment or services, they are teaming up with U.S. Soccer to help shape the future of the game through shared values, innovation, and a long-term commitment to excellence.
"These partners are instrumental in bringing the NTC to life and we are grateful for their support," said Lewis Fisher, Director, Partnership Development, U.S. Soccer. "Their commitment goes beyond bricks and mortar, it's a shared investment in the people who make our game possible: players, coaches, referees, fans, staff, and the communities that form the foundation of American soccer. Together, we're building more than a facility, we're creating a home for the future of the game."
Partner Contributions: Building a World-Class Foundation
* Kwik Goal - Supplying goals, training gear, and field equipment, Kwik Goal supports every training session and matchday across the NTC, helping athletes and coaches prepare and train with precision and purpose.
* FieldTurf - Supplying high-performance artificial turf across the field complexes. As a FIFA Preferred Producer and leading choice for soccer, FieldTurf will help ensure a consistent playing experience for all athletes who train and compete at this world-class facility.
* John Deere and Beard Equipment Company - A fleet of advanced John Deere turf maintenance equipment from Beard Equipment Company will ensure the NTC's natural grass and synthetic surfaces remain in optimal condition, setting the standard for performance and sustainability.
* True Natural Gas - Committed to supporting the communities they serve and providing clean and affordable natural gas service to this cutting-edge campus.
NTC: More Than a Training Facility
Opening in Spring 2026 in Fayetteville, Georgia, just outside Atlanta, the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center is a cornerstone of U.S. Soccer's long-term vision to grow the game nationwide. As the new home for all 27 National Teams, it will also serve as the central hub for coach and referee education, high-performance research, and community programming.
This is where the U.S. Way player development philosophy comes to life, driven by accessibility, innovation, and the relentless commitment to excellence.
Located on 200 acres, the facility will feature:
* Over a dozen full-size soccer fields
* 100,000+ sq. ft. of indoor playing space
* 200,000+ sq. ft. of high-performance and meeting facilities
* Headquarters for U.S. Soccer staff
With the support of key NTC partners, U.S. Soccer is building a sustainable, world-class home for American soccer. Centralizing operations will generate long-term cost savings that can be reinvested into player development, grassroots growth, and competitive success. It will also be a national hub for learning, innovation, and access to unlock potential and elevate every level of the game.
This is a defining moment for soccer in the U.S., and the National Training Center is at the heart of it. Together with our partners, we're building the future of the game.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2025/11/leading-industry-providers-power-arthur-m-blank-national-training-center
[Category: Sports]
PINKY COLE HAYES TO JOIN 2026 FOOD LION CIAA CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT AS OFFICIAL AMBASSADOR
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 20 [Category: Sports] -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association issued the following news:
* * *
PINKY COLE HAYES TO JOIN 2026 FOOD LION CIAA CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT AS OFFICIAL AMBASSADOR
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA(r)), the nation's oldest historically Black athletic conference, is proud to announce Pinky Cole Hayes as an official ambassador for the highly anticipated 2026 Food Lion CIAA Men's and Women's Basketball Championship Tournament. As a Baltimore native, Restaurateur, Philanthropist, and Influencer, Pinky
... Show Full Article
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 20 [Category: Sports] -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association issued the following news:
* * *
PINKY COLE HAYES TO JOIN 2026 FOOD LION CIAA CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT AS OFFICIAL AMBASSADOR
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA(r)), the nation's oldest historically Black athletic conference, is proud to announce Pinky Cole Hayes as an official ambassador for the highly anticipated 2026 Food Lion CIAA Men's and Women's Basketball Championship Tournament. As a Baltimore native, Restaurateur, Philanthropist, and Influencer, Pinkywill inspire pride with students, alumni, and Charm City, showcasing what's possible when opportunity meets intention.
"Pinky" Cole Hayes is a Jamaican-American restaurateur, author, community activist, and owner of the Slutty Vegan restaurant chain and Bar Vegan that started in Atlanta, Georgia and now has locations in New York City, Dallas and most recently launched in Baltimore, MD. Cole Hayes is a culinary disruptor in the industry, transforming America's view of plant-based fast food and striving to make plant-based eating delicious, accessible, and enjoyable for vegans and flexitarians alike. In addition to her work in the food industry, Pinky is also a philanthropist and head of The Pinky Cole Foundation, which is committed to uplifting marginalized and underrepresented communities and breaking the cycle of poverty by providing access to resources and education to pursue their entrepreneurial goals. To learn more about Pinky Cole Hayes, visit iampinkycole.com and follow @pinkycole on Instagram and @pinky907 on X (formerly Twitter).
"Pinky Cole's story reflects everything we hope to ignite through the CIAA pride, perseverance, and purpose," said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker. "Her Baltimore roots, entrepreneurial drive, and commitment to giving back make her the perfect ambassador to connect with our fans and future leaders as we bring the 2026 Tournament home to Charm City."
"Everything I am started in Baltimore," said Pinky Cole Hayes. "This city taught me how to be fearless and independent, to hustle hard, and to show up with heart. Being named a 2026 CIAA Tournament Ambassador feels like coming home to celebrate the people and the place that shaped me. I can't wait to pour that same Baltimore energy into this incredible event."
The CIAA Basketball Tournament, set for February 24 - 28, 2026 at CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore is more than just basketball, it's a cultural celebration unlike any other.
All tickets are now available at CIAATournament.org. Take advantage of the BLACK FRIDAY ticket sale (November 28-December 1), enter code CIAA to get $50 off Weekend General Admission Tickets.
Fans and alumni are invited to "Come Home to Baltimore" and experience:
* 22 action-packed men's and women's basketball games
* The legendary FREE 2-Day Fan Fest
* Education Day, Career Expo, Greek Night, Step Shows
* Official concerts, day parties, celebrity sightings and much more!
Following the recent extension of CIAA's partnership with Baltimore through 2029, Charm City continues to be the proud home of CIAA Basketball, a place where HBCU pride, culture, and legacy take center stage. CFG Bank Arena will come alive with the energy of alumni, students, athletes, the Divine Nine, and fans from across the country for an unforgettable celebration of HBCU excellence.
To purchase tickets, book hotels and get the latest information about the CIAA, visit CIAATournament.org. Fans can also like us on Facebook, and follow us on X, Instagram, and Twitch.
About the CIAA
Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA ) is the first and longest running African American athletic conference in the U.S., and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. The CIAA conducts 14 championships attended by more than 150,000 fans from around the country. The Basketball Tournament has been honored as a 2019 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management, the leading publication with the largest circulation of sports event planners and tournament directors in the sports tourism market, for both 2018 and 2019.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the CIAA is governed by the Presidents and Chancellors of its 12 member institutions: Bowie State University, Bluefield State University, Claflin University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Livingstone College, Shaw University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, and Winston-Salem State University. For more information on the CIAA, visit theciaa.com, like us on Facebook, and follow us on X and Instagram.
About Visit Baltimore
Visit Baltimore is the official sales and marketing arm for the City of Baltimore. The 501(c)(6) non-profit organization generates economic benefits for stakeholders through the attraction of convention, group and leisure visitors. In 2022, 26.7 million people visited Baltimore for overnight and day trips, spending a total of $3.7 billion to Baltimore's economy. For more information, please visit Baltimore.org.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Martine Charles, martine@marcglobalcommunications.com, direct: 206-295-9114
Jenny McIntosh, jenny@marcglobalcommunications.com, direct: 480-202-7112
***
Original text here: https://theciaa.com/news/2025/11/20/about-the-ciaa-pinky-cole-hayes-to-join-2026-food-lion-ciaa-championship-basketball-tournament-as-official-ambassador.aspx
CIAA Announces 2025 Volleyball All-Conference Teams and Individual Award Winners Ahead of Championship in Bowie, MD
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 20 [Category: Sports] -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association issued the following news:
* * *
CIAA Announces 2025 Volleyball All-Conference Teams and Individual Award Winners Ahead of Championship in Bowie, MD
*
BOWIE, MD (November 20, 2025) - Championship weekend has arrived. As eight programs converge at Bowie State University for the 46th CIAA Volleyball Championship, the stage is set for a bracket defined by tradition, momentum, and the pursuit of history. Two-time defending champion Shaw University enters looking to secure a rare three-peat,
... Show Full Article
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 20 [Category: Sports] -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association issued the following news:
* * *
CIAA Announces 2025 Volleyball All-Conference Teams and Individual Award Winners Ahead of Championship in Bowie, MD
*
BOWIE, MD (November 20, 2025) - Championship weekend has arrived. As eight programs converge at Bowie State University for the 46th CIAA Volleyball Championship, the stage is set for a bracket defined by tradition, momentum, and the pursuit of history. Two-time defending champion Shaw University enters looking to secure a rare three-peat,while several rising contenders aim to disrupt the Bears' run and carve their own place into CIAA history.
Over the past decade, CIAA volleyball has seen familiar powers and breakthrough programs share the spotlight, from Fayetteville State's steady championship presence to Elizabeth City State's 2022 title and Winston-Salem State's resurgence. Now, in 2025, the field is as balanced and competitive as ever.
Live coverage will be available throughout championship weekend on The CIAA Sports Network.
Before first serve on Friday, the CIAA proudly recognizes the top performers of the 2025 season with the announcement of this year's All-CIAA Teams and Individual Award winners.
2025 CIAA Volleyball Individual Awards
Coach of the Year - Christa Brown (Winston-Salem State University)
In her first season at the helm of Winston-Salem State University, Coach Christa Brown established the Rams as one of the conference's most disciplined and complete teams. Under her leadership, WSSU elevated its defensive identity, developed multiple All-CIAA selections, and delivered one of the program's most impressive seasons of the decade.
Offensive Player of the Year - Holiday Ellis (Winston-Salem State University)
Ellis emerged as one of the CIAA's most dominant attackers, powering the Rams with consistent, high impact production on the outside. Her ability to score against top competition transformed WSSU's offense and solidified her as one of Division II's premier hitters.
Defensive Player of the Year - Kellee Craig (Virginia State University)
Craig anchored Virginia State's back row with elite instincts and unmatched consistency. The junior libero set the tone for the Trojans defensively, routinely extending rallies and stabilizing serve receive in every major matchup this season.
Setter of the Year - Giovanna Teixeira (Fayetteville State University)
Teixeira directed the Broncos' offense with poise and precision, orchestrating one of the conference's most balanced attacks. Her leadership and decision making allowed multiple FSU hitters to shine, continuing the program's tradition of elite setting.
Rookie of the Year - Aryanna Connell (Claflin University)
Connell made an immediate impact as one of the conference's most complete freshmen. A six-rotation force, she delivered high-level production in both scoring and serve receive, establishing herself as one of the brightest young stars in the CIAA.
2025 All-CIAA First Team
Libero - Kellee Craig (Virginia State University)
Middle Hitter - Nina Edwards (Bowie State University), Kamiyah Wilson (Winston-Salem State University), Sydni Hunter (Shaw University)
Outside Hitter - Makayla Brown (Shaw University), Aryanna Connell (Claflin University), Holiday Ellis (Winston-Salem State University)
Right Side Hitter - Nicole Taylor (Bowie State University), Chiara Vittoni (Fayetteville State University)
Setter - Giovanna Teixeira (Fayetteville State University), Gabby Hale (Bluefield State University)
Utility - Love Riley (Livingstone College)
2025 All-CIAA Second Team
Libero - Maya Morales (Bluefield State University)
Middle Hitter - Callesta Syles (Bluefield State University), Zoe Chesson (Winston-Salem State University), Madison Hill (Virginia Union University)
Outside Hitter - Allyson Martin (Bluefield State University), Gracie Darville (Virginia State University), Symone Morris (Fayetteville State University)
Right Side Hitter - Khamara Steppe (Shaw University), Amaya Cooper (Virginia State University)
Setter - Kya Moore (Shaw University), Ashlee Franklin (Virginia Union University)
Utility - Grayson Graham (Claflin University)
2025 CIAA All-Rookie Team
Aryanna Connell (Claflin University)
Leana Gould (Shaw University)
Kyra Marciniak (Virginia State University)
Angelica Turnage (Winston-Salem State University)
Justyce McKennie (Livingstone College)
Team Previews
Northern Division
(1N) Virginia State University
Led by Defensive Player of the Year Kellee Craig and supported by All-CIAA standouts Gracie Darville and Madison Hill, Virginia State enters as one of the most complete and defensively sound programs in the field. The Trojans' disciplined structure and ability to control long rallies make them a top contender.
(2N) Virginia Union University
Virginia Union returns with a strong, physical lineup anchored by middle blocker Madison Hill. The Panthers complement their interior play with steady setting and a service game that can shift momentum quickly, giving them upset potential against any opponent.
(3N) Bluefield State University
Bluefield State brings a high-tempo offense built around First Team setter Gabby Hale. With multiple hitters capable of delivering in big moments, the Big Blue enter as a dangerous, fast-paced team that thrives in extended rallies.
(4N) Bowie State University
With First Team middle Nina Edwards leading one of the conference's strongest front lines, Bowie State brings size, power, and a home-court advantage. The Bulldogs' ability to control the net keeps them firmly in the conversation for a deep postseason run.
Southern Division
(1S) Winston-Salem State University
Under Coach of the Year Christa Brown, Winston-Salem State enters as one of the field's most complete and disciplined programs. With Offensive Player of the Year Holiday Ellis, standout middle Kamiyah Wilson, and All-Rookie outside Angelica Turnage, the Rams combine depth, balance, and firepower across all rotations.
(2S) Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville State brings proven championship DNA, guided by Setter of the Year Giovanna Teixeira. The Broncos' structure, ball control, and experience make them one of the most consistent postseason performers in recent CIAA history.
(3S) Shaw University
The two-time defending champions arrive looking to secure a historic three-peat. With First Team standouts Makayla Brown and Sydni Hunter and rising talent like freshman Leana Gould, Shaw enters with experience, confidence, and postseason composure unmatched in the field.
(4S) Livingstone College
Livingstone returns behind the versatility of First Team utility standout Love Riley and All-Rookie honoree Justyce McKennie. The Blue Bears' defensive grit, energy, and ability to create scoring runs make them a dangerous first-round opponent.
Championship Preview
The 46th CIAA Volleyball Championship begins Friday, November 21 at Bowie State University, where eight programs will compete for the conference's most storied volleyball title. With Shaw pursuing a third straight championship and multiple challengers surging at the right time, the 2025 bracket features depth, experience, and emerging stars across every seed line.
"This championship field reflects the competitiveness and pride that define the CIAA," said Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker. "Our student athletes continue to elevate the level of play each season, and this weekend will showcase the very best of CIAA volleyball."
2025 CIAA Volleyball Championship Schedule
Bowie State University - A.C. Jordan Arena
Friday, November 21 - Quarterfinals
11:00 AM - (1N) Virginia State University vs. (4S) Livingstone College
1:30 PM - (2N) Virginia Union University vs. (3S) Shaw University
4:00 PM - (1S) Winston-Salem State University vs. (4N) Bowie State University
6:30 PM - (2S) Fayetteville State University vs. (3N) Bluefield State University
Saturday, November 22 - Semifinals
2:00 PM - Semifinal Match
4:30 PM - Semifinal Match
Sunday, November 23 - Championship
12:00 PM - CIAA Volleyball Championship Game
Media Contact
Anna M. Butzlaff
Associate Commissioner, Strategic Communications
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)
abutzlaff@theciaa.com
About the CIAA
Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is the first, and longest running, African American athletic conference in the U.S. and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. The CIAA conducts 14 championships attended by more than 150,000 fans from around the country. The Basketball Tournament has been honored as a 2019 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management for both 2018 and 2019.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the CIAA is governed by the Presidents and Chancellors of its 12 member institutions: Bowie State University, Bluefield State University, Claflin University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Livingstone College, Shaw University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, and Winston-Salem State University.
For more information, visit theciaa.com and follow the CIAA on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
***
Original text here: https://theciaa.com/news/2025/11/20/about-the-ciaa-ciaa-announces-2025-volleyball-all-conference-teams-and-individual-award-winners-ahead-of-championship-in-bowie-md.aspx
