Contact:
Terry Spicer
Office of Sports Media and Athletic Relations
(919) 546-8269
tspicer@shawu.edu

Shaw U. Big Winner at Willie E. Gary Classic

Jacksonville, FL – (September 19, 2006) The Willie E. Gary Classic was more than a great showcase of competition between Shaw University and Edward Waters College on the gridiron on Saturday, September 16th. It was a compilation of events designed to empower and advance the goals and ambitions of hundreds of students seeking their dream of obtaining a college education.

A banquet for the athletes of both institutions was held on Friday, September 17th at the Wyndham Hotel. Decked in suits, shirts and ties, the athletes were excellent ambassadors for the University in manner, presentation and competition. Flashing his signature smile, Attorney Willie E. Gary, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Shaw University, took center stage at the podium to a standing ovation. The young men had just viewed a tape of his road to success. With authority and excitement, he stated to them, “There are future presidents, CEO’s, NFL stars and countless stars of other professions in this room.” Following his speech, he called Darrell Asberry, Head Coach of Shaw University and Lamonte J. Massie, Head Coach of Edwards Waters College to the stage. To their great surprise, he handed each of them a check for $25K earmarked for their athletic programs. The athletes rose to their feet and applauded louder than before. This was without question the crowning moment of the evening.

The Willie E. Gary Classic College Fair 2006 was held at the Prime Osbourne Convention Center on Saturday morning. Colleges and universities from across the country were on hand to answer questions and provide information packets for the 1000+ students that were registered. Free tickets were provided to every student that desired to attend the game at Raines High School.

Dr. Clarence G. Newsome, President of Shaw University and Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, Sr., President of Edward Waters College, extended greetings to the crowd of alumni and fans. Both teams took to the field at 5:00 p.m. Jermonty Kimbrough (5’11, Senior, QB) led the Bears to a 26-20 point victory against the Tigers; finishing with 210 yards passing, 31 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns. Reginald Price (6’0, Junior, RB) was named the Most Valuable Offensive Player and finished with 151 yards rushing and a great touchdown. Coach Asberry and his new staff landed their first win at the helm of the football program. Dr. Newsome, Athletic Director, Al Carter and Attorney Gary were center field to join the team to accept the Championship trophy.

The Platinum Sound Marching Band under the leadership of Charles Brown played big and looked spectacular on the field. The cheerleaders took “Shaw Pride” and school spirit to the next level and helped rally the Bears on to victory.

The convoy of Shaw University buses heading down I-95 South early Friday morning looked impressive and all of the students and staff were delivered and returned with care, safety and pride. The collective efforts of the Shaw Family were outstanding and the victory was the bonus!

The Willie E. Gary Classic was a phenomenal success for Shaw University. Congratulations to Chairman Gary for his continued commitment to excellence, opportunity and Shaw University! Congratulations to the team, students, Coach Asberry and the new Coaching Staff, and every participant that collectively made the Classic a huge success!