CIAA football media day 2026 held in Durham

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Football season is drawing closer, and teams from the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) gathered in Durham Wednesday for the conference's media day to discuss the upcoming 2026 season.

Student-athletes and coaches from across the conference met as preparations continue for the fall. Among them were Shaw University and Fayetteville State University, both looking to build on last season.

Fayetteville State coach Richard Hayes said chemistry will be a key focus as the Broncos replace players from last year's team. Fayetteville State finished the 2025 season with a 6-4 record, falling short of its championship aspirations. Hayes and his players said they are confident the team can take the next step in 2026.

For Hayes, a Durham native, a return to the CIAA championship game would carry added significance because the title game is scheduled to be played at Memorial Stadium in Durham in November.

Shaw coach Lamar Manigo also discussed his team's outlook for the season. After finishing with two wins last season, Manigo acknowledged the year did not unfold as expected but said he believes the experience will help the Bears improve in 2026.

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