For Immediate Release
Contact:
Terry Spicer
Director of Sports Media & Athletic Relations
Shaw University
(919) 546-8269
tspicer@shawu.edu

Shaw University’s Homecoming Football Game
A Kaleidoscope of the Shaw Family in Reunion
 

Raleigh, NC – (October 16, 2006) Saturday, October 14th was the Homecoming game between Shaw University and Virginia Union at Trojan Stadium. Cars were parked at every corner and Shaw University paraphernalia could be seen in every direction. Greek lettered organizations, alumni, friends, old and new, tailgated and scrolled down memory lane in the spirit of Homecoming to celebrate dear ole’ Shaw U and days of old. The spirit of reunion was everywhere.

The stands were filled with Shaw Family members; Board of Trustee members, Athletic Hall of Fame members & Committee members, Booster Club members, National Alumni Association members, 50th Class Reunion members, 25th Class Reunion members, alumni, administration, staff, faculty, family and friends.

Head Coach Darrell Asberry and his staff were on the field with the team prior to the 1:00 p.m. kickoff providing leadership and motivation. With helmets raised, the players and coaches rallied in unison their pledge of commitment and sportsmanship to the game.

Kickoff was at 1:00 p.m. and the Bears dueled on the gridiron against VU. At halftime, Attorney Willie E. Gary, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, presented $50K for the football program of the University to Dr. Clarence G. Newsome, President, Martel Perry, Executive Vice President, and Alfonza Carter, Director of Athletics. In his signature song accompanied by the Platinum Sound Marching Band, he sang Stand By Me. Indeed he has stood by Shaw University and also presented five Dell Computers to Shaw University students at his annual brunch at the Sheraton Hotel. The requirement for students to have the opportunity to win a laptop was to attend Fall Convocation. The students were extremely grateful for the gift from the Gary Law firm. Kenneth Gary, President and CEO of the Gary Foundation selected the random ticket winners.

The Platinum Sound Marching Band and the Chi-Chi’s performed in amazement during halftime activities. Patrice Gist, Miss Shaw University and Kimberly Kitchens, Miss Homecoming were also on the field with the CAPE Queens and they all strolled the stadium waving to the crowd. The Cheerleaders provided the exciting spirit for the game and Alumni Cheerleaders partnered with them for the second half of the game to cheer the Bears on.

Screams of delight were heard as classmates and friends recognized one another across the aisles, outside the stadium and during the completion of touchdowns. The Homecoming football game was the opportunity to renew ties and make new acquaintances.

The final score didn’t produce the victory, but the scoreboard didn’t reflect the dedication and play of the team and the coaches. Coach Asberry said to the team on the field, “Keep your heads up. I’m very proud of all of you. I know it hurts because it hurts me but we are made stronger today because of the hard work and commitment exhibited on the field.” Chairman Gary said, “Don’t let this get you down. You are all winners and we are very proud of you.” President Newsome stated, “The Shaw Family is proud of each of you. Keep working hard and the rewards will outweigh the feelings of defeat.”

Indeed. The Homecoming football game was the reunion of the Shaw Family. We stand together through the good and the tough times. Keep your heads up team. The Shaw Family supports you and we’ll cheer you on to victory against Elizabeth City State University on Saturday, October 21st!

“Strides to Excellence: Only the Best!”

Note: Filed with Photos for Website