ETTRICK, VA- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Football Coaches Association, in conjunction with the Sports Information Directors Association, released the 2023 Predicted Order of Finish and Preseason All-CIAA Team. Trojan defensive back Willie Drew, offensive lineman Matthew Foster, and defensive lineman Miqueal Pillow-Smiley were named to the All-CIAA team. 

The Trojans were predicted to finish fifth overall, after going 6-4 last season with a .600 winning percentage under head coach Henry Frazier in his first season at the helm of the program. 

"I am excited about the possibilities that exists for this team," said head coach Henry Frazier. "We have a chance to have a special year providing we are not a selfish team, the goal is to hold one another accountable, and be prepared to meet obstacles squarely face to face!"

Junior defensive back Willie Drew clinched his spot on the All-CIAA preseason based on being an All-CIAA performer last season. The Smithfield, VA native totaled 40 tackles, five interceptions, and seven pass breakups. He ranked third in the CIAA for his top-notch defense against opponent's passing game.  

"It is a blessing to be in the position that I am in, but this accolade is also a testament of the position my teammates put me in game after game," said Drew. "

Senior offensive lineman Matthew Foster also clinched a spot on the All-CIAA team. This comes as no surprise since the Ellenwood, GA native was named the Offensive Lineman of the Year for his 2022 season performance. 

"Kobe Bryant once said great things come from hard work and perseverance without excuses, with that being said it is an honor and blessing to receive this all conference nod," said Foster. "I am appreciative for my coaches, teammates, and Trojan nation but the job isn't done."

Senior defensive lineman Miqueal Pillow - Smiley's all conference preseason nod is well deserved. The St. Louis, MO native recorded 39 tackles, 12 tackles for a loss of 38 yards, and 5.5 sacks for a loss of 25 yards.

"I'm thankful to earn this all-conference honor with the help of my teammates and the guidance of our coaches, but my main focus right now is winning games so that I can be here earning this award post-season with a championship title.

The Trojans are set to report for preseason practice on August 9. VSU's season opener is scheduled for September 2 at Norfolk State University for the highly anticipated Labor Day Classic.Kickoff is slated for 2 PM.







2023 CIAA Football Predicted Order of Finish

1Fayetteville State
2 Bowie State
3 Virginia Union
4 Shaw
5 Virginia State
6 Johnson C. Smith
7 Winston-Salem State
8 Elizabeth City State
9 Bluefield State
10 Lincoln (Pa.)
11 Livingstone
12 St. Augustine's

2023 Football All-CIAA Team - Preseason Team

Tight End
Kalen Carver, Virginia Union

Offensive Linemen
Matthew Foster, Virginia State
Tyler Fleming, Fayetteville State
Michael Todd, Fayetteville State 
Queonte Hilliard, Shaw
Darius McDuffie, Winston-Salem State

Wide Receivers
Brevin Caldwell, Johnson C. Smith 
Keshane Hinckley, Bowie State

Quarterback
Isaiah Freeman, Lincoln (PA)

Running Backs
Jada Byers, Virginia Union
Sidney Gibbs, Shaw

Kick Returner
Larry Hackey, Virginia Union
 
Place Kicker
Brady Myers, Virginia Union

Defensive Linemen
Cameron Merrell, Fayetteville State 
Miqueal Pillow - Smiley, Virginia State 
Isaac Anderson, Virginia Union
Armonii Burden, Virginia Union

Linebackers
Kentrell Caldwell, Fayetteville State 
Shamar Graham, Virginia Union
Lee Sales, St. Augustine's

Defensive Backs
Willie Drew, Virginia State
Jadon Carter, Bowie State
Jay Boyd, Shaw
Eric Best, Lincoln (Pa.)

Punt Returner
Dennis Jones, St. Augustine's

Punter
Devin Versteegen, Shaw

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