The countdown to football season is officially underway, and if the energy surrounding the 2026 CIAA Football Media Day was any indication, fans are in for another exciting year across the conference.
Held July 14–15 in Durham, North Carolina, the annual event marked the official start of the 2026 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) football season. Coaches, student-athletes, conference officials, and media gathered to unveil the preseason predicted order of finish, recognize the 2026 Preseason All-CIAA Team, and preview what promises to be another competitive season of CIAA football.
Representing the Blue Bears at the annual event were Head Coach Sean Gilbert, Associate Head Coach Mark Williams, and standout student-athletes Brandon "Manny" Moss and Davyn Reid. Also earning recognition during the conference's preseason announcements was senior placekicker Jason Zapata, who was named to the 2026 Preseason All-CIAA Team following an outstanding 2025 campaign. Zapata's preseason selection underscores his reputation as one of the CIAA's top special teams performers and highlights the veteran leadership he brings to the Blue Bears heading into the 2026 season.
Livingstone College was selected to finish sixth in the 2026 CIAA Football Preseason Poll among the conference's 11 football programs. While preseason rankings often spark conversation, Head Coach Sean Gilbert made it clear that his team's focus remains on what happens between the sidelines, not where they're projected to finish.
"Respect isn't given because of where you're ranked; it's earned every Saturday," Gilbert said. "Our focus has always been on earning that respect. This team has put in the work, embraced the challenge, and believes in what we're building at Livingstone. We're excited for the opportunity to compete and prove who we are on the field."
Gilbert's confidence reflects the culture being built within the Blue Bears program. With experienced leadership, returning talent, and a determined mindset, Livingstone enters the 2026 season prepared to challenge expectations and compete with the best teams in the conference.
Virginia Union was voted the preseason favorite after another successful season, followed by Johnson C. Smith, whose statement victory over two-time defending CIAA champion Virginia Union last year demonstrated the increasing depth and competitiveness across the league.
CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker expressed her excitement for the season ahead and the continued growth of conference football.
"The excitement surrounding CIAA Football continues to grow, and we are thrilled to officially begin another season," McWilliams Parker said. "Last year's championship reminded us how competitive this conference has become, and we expect that momentum to continue this fall. Expanding Championship Weekend allows us to celebrate even more of our student-athletes while creating an enhanced experience for our fans, member institutions and partners."
Adding to the excitement surrounding the 2026 season, the CIAA announced an expanded Football Championship Weekend, creating another historic milestone for the conference. Returning to Durham County Memorial Stadium for a second consecutive year through the CIAA's partnership with the Durham Sports Commission, Championship Weekend will now feature two highly anticipated games.
For the first time, the weekend will open on Friday, Nov. 13, with a matchup between the teams finishing third and fourth in the final regular-season standings, giving even more student-athletes the opportunity to compete on the conference's biggest stage. The excitement will continue on Saturday, Nov. 14, when the top two teams battle for the title in the 56th CIAA Football Championship.
The expanded format reflects the continued growth and momentum of CIAA football while creating new traditions for student-athletes, alumni, and fans. With more meaningful games, more championship opportunities, and more history waiting to be written, the 2026 season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent conference history.
As anticipation builds for kickoff, the Blue Bears are eager to write their own story this fall. While preseason polls provide a snapshot of expectations, championships are decided on the field, and Livingstone is ready to earn its place.
Blue Bear Nation, save the date! Join the Blue Bears for Livingstone College Homecoming on Saturday, October 3, and be part of one of the most exciting traditions on campus. Pack Alumni Memorial Stadium, wear your blue and white, and cheer on Livingstone as the Blue Bears continue their pursuit of a memorable 2026 season.
2026 CIAA Football Predicted Order of Finish
(1) Virginia Union University
(2) Johnson C. Smith University
(3) Fayetteville State University
(4) Virginia State University
(5) Winston-Salem State University
(6) Livingstone College
(7) Elizabeth City State University
(8) Bowie State University
(9) Bluefield State University
(10) Shaw University
(11) Lincoln University (Pa.)
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