The CIAA Football Championship is coming back to Durham—and it’s more than just a game.
By Kyle Marie McMahon
After a competitive year-long bid process, the Durham Sports Commission has successfully secured the CIAA Football Championship’s return to Durham County Memorial Stadium, a move that’s generating buzz across the region. For a city rich in Black culture, collegiate tradition, and sports heritage, the championship means more than a packed stadium; it’s a celebration of legacy, economic opportunity, and community engagement.
“It was a competitive process,” says Kaila’Shea Menendez, Deputy Director of the Durham Sports Commission. “But Durham is such a strong candidate. Six of the twelve CIAA institutions are in North Carolina, so the geography makes sense. And beyond that, we have all-star amenities and a community that embraces these athletes and their families.”
Durham isn’t just opening its stadium. It’s rolling out the red carpet. Plans are already in motion for a week-long celebration leading up to the November championship game, with local businesses, alumni, and youth groups playing a central role. “We’ve had conversations around what it could potentially be, but the community service part of the CIAA is so important,” Menendez shares. “Think Greek life events, step shows, alumni gatherings, and youth engagement activities.” Youth involvement is a top priority for the commission. “Parents at our recent youth clinic kept saying, ‘It’s so powerful to have this in our community—our kids need to see this,’” Menendez adds.
The return of the CIAA Football Championship is also a meaningful moment for Shaw University. As a founding member of the CIAA and located just down the road in Raleigh, Shaw’s football team competes at Durham County Memorial Stadium. Shaw linebacker Quewon Hilliard wants to return to the “Golden Days,” when the university was a powerhouse in the conference.
New head coach Lamar Manigo agrees. “The goal is a championship.” Going 6-4 last year and entering the 2025 season with an 8th-seed ranking, the Bears have an uphill battle. “We don’t want a rebuilding process,” Manigo says. “We want to compete in the championship now.” And according to Hilliard, they have a plan to get it: “Stay humble. Stay hungry.”
For locals who haven’t attended a CIAA game, this year is the time to jump in. Beyond the thrilling HBCU football, fans can expect live entertainment, food vendors, cultural showcases, and a vibrant atmosphere that blends history and hype.
“Durham has something for everyone,” Menendez said. “Whether you’re a foodie, a sports fan, a parent, or a student, we want you to come out and experience the spirit of this event. There’s such a rich history. There’s culture, there’s tradition. There’s fun. There’s excitement. Durham is bold, and we can’t wait to see which team will be Bull City-bound.”
The CIAA Championship game is set for November 15. For more details as events are finalized, follow the Durham Sports Commission and visit DiscoverDurham.com.
Mark Your Calendars: Shaw Bears 2025 Football Schedule
As the CIAA Football Championship returns to Durham, there’s no better time to support local HBCU powerhouse Shaw University. The Shaw Bears will take the field this fall with a mix of fierce rivalries, historic matchups, and plenty of home games right at Durham County Memorial Stadium.
Key Dates for the 2025 Season:
- Aug 30 – vs. Albany State University (Home, non-conference opener)
- Sat, Sep 27 – vs. Virginia Union University (Home, conference opener)
- Sat, Oct 11 – vs. Winston‑Salem State University (Home, CIAA)
- Sat, Oct 18 – vs. Johnson C. Smith University (Homecoming, always a fan-favorite)
- Sat, Oct 25 – vs. Fayetteville State University (Senior Day)
Shaw’s 2025 season offers Triangle-area fans a front-row seat to exciting HBCU football action. Whether you’re cheering from the student section or soaking up the halftime show, these games are more than just football—they’re community celebrations.
To view the full schedule or purchase tickets, visit Shaw Bears Athletics.
