Box Score Virginia Union University's football team captures its first CIAA Championship in 22 years by downing Fayetteville State University 21-10 in the 2023 CIAA Football Championship Game, held on Saturday, November 11, in Salem, Va.  

The first half of the championship clash lived up to its billing, with both teams showcasing exceptional defense. Virginia Union would find the endzone first, with touchdowns by Jada Byers and Christian Reid, giving the Panthers a 14-0 lead.

Momentum swung in Virginia Union's favor shortly after a muffed punt by the Broncos in the third quarter. The Panthers then went on a five-play 27-yard drive leading to yet another Byers touchdown. The Panthers defense continued to shut out the Broncos offense during the 4th quarter forcing a fumble recovered by Shamar Graham. 

Virginia Union's rushing game continued to shine as Jada Byers finished with 135 yards and two touchdowns on the day. The game would conclude 21-10, Panthers. Byers also went home as the 2023 Food Lion Most Valuable Player for Virginia Union.

"I'm just happy, that's all I can say," said VUU Head Football Coach Dr. Alvin Parker.  "I was here in 2001when we went down to Winston-Salem and won it.  I remember how it felt then, but this is a little bit better.  I was the leader of the program and I felt like I was leading us in the right direction, but all of the guys bought into the process, even though it wasn't easy."

This evening's win serves as the first Championship Title for Head Coach and 2023 CIAA Coach of the Year, Dr. Alvin Parker.