WINSTON-SALEM, NC -- The location of a football game between
Winston-Salem State and North Carolina Central University has been moved
to Winston-Salem's Bowman-Gray stadium, officials at both universities
announced today.
The October 25th game, most recently scheduled to take place in
Atlantic City, N.J., and coined the Boardwalk Classic, was to showcase
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association football in the North East
while continuing a long-standing WSSU Rams -- NCCU Eagles rivalry. The
game was originally scheduled to take place in Winston-Salem's
Bowman-Gray Stadium.
Current financial standings and forecasts proved insufficient
and not in the best interest of either institution to continue planning
a game in Atlantic City, officials said.
The game will be hosted by the WSSU Rams. Both WSSU Chancellor Harold L.
Martin, Sr. and NCCU Chancellor James H. Ammons regret any inconvenience
to the fans of WSSU, NCCU, the CIAA or the city of Atlantic City, N.J.
"We appreciate the ringing endorsement of Rams sports fans as evidence
by the scores of fans who were ready to show Ram spirit in the resort
town of Atlantic City," said Chancellor Martin.
Chancellor Ammons said that he hopes to see Eagles fans turnout in
Winston-Salem in great numbers. He noted that he and Dr. Martin have
organized a joint committee to plan festivities to ensure the game is a
fun-filled day for Rams and Eagles.
"We are looking forward to a great match on the gridiron," said Ammons.
"We believe that our decision was in the best interest of both
universities."
A wager between the chancellors has been made. If the Eagles win,
Chancellor Martin will display a NCCU Eagle symbol in his office until
next season. If the Rams win, Chancellor Ammons will display a roaring
ram statue on his desk until 2004.
