ETTRICK, Va. (Sept. 8, 2026) – Virginia State University Athletics will recognize two historic football championship teams during its 2026 Homecoming celebration on Saturday, October 10, at Rogers Stadium. The special recognition will celebrate the legacy and accomplishments of championship teams that helped establish VSU football as a force in the CIAA.
This year's celebration will mark:
The 1996 Trojans, led by Head Coach Lou Anderson, captured the CIAA Championship and helped Virginia State secure back-to-back conference titles. The Trojans finished the season with an 8-3 overall record, including a 7-1 mark in CIAA play. All-CIAA selections that season included Tony Lanier, Samuel Harrell, Jeremiah Sullivan, Telley Priester and Herbert Howard. The Trojans were ranked as high as No. 10 in the NCAA Division II polls.
The 1936 Trojans, coached by Harry Jefferson, completed an undefeated season with a 9-0-2 overall record, including a 7-0-2 mark in CIAA play. The team was recognized as Black College Co-Champions and outscored its opponents 164-46.
VSU Athletics is proud to honor these championship teams and the lasting legacy they represent in Trojan history. The celebration will provide an opportunity for former student-athletes, coaches and members of the VSU community to come together and recognize the accomplishments of these historic teams.
"I am excited to welcome the team back to campus to celebrate the anniversary of their CIAA championship," said Tiffani-Dawn B. Sykes, VSU Associate Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. "As a former VSU student-athlete, I take great pride in recognizing the history and standard of excellence these teams built for Virginia State University Athletics. We're proud to honor them and keep their legacy alive."
During the Homecoming celebration, VSU Athletics will acknowledge the 1936 championship team while the 1996 championship team will be recognized with a special on-field celebration during halftime of the football game.
Please fill out this form if you were part of the 1996 team: https://govsutrojans.com/2026fbanniversary
