CHARLOTTE, NC (April 11, 2026) – The Winston-Salem State University women's flag football team captured its second consecutive Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association championship with a 12-6 victory over Fayetteville State at the Irvin Belk Complex on the campus of Johnson C. Smith University.
The Rams rallied from behind to defeat the Broncos and secure back-to-back titles.
WSSU advanced to the championship game with a 13-0 win over Claflin University on Friday after earning a bye in the quarterfinal round.
In a championship performance defined by toughness, execution and playmaking on both sides of the ball, the Rams delivered when it mattered most, showcasing the same championship pedigree that fueled last year's title run.
Leading the charge offensively was Chakira Generette, who once again rose to the moment. Generette accounted for two rushing touchdowns, slicing through the defense with speed and vision to give WSSU the edge in critical moments.
The Rams' dual-quarterback system again proved to be a difference-maker, as Generette and Myla Hoover kept opposing defenses off balance throughout the game. The combination of Generette's explosiveness and Hoover's command created a steady rhythm that carried WSSU to another championship.
Defensively, Jasmine Higgins and Skyy Simmons anchored a relentless pass rush, each recording a sack to disrupt the opponent's offense and swing momentum in favor of the Rams.
When the decisive moment came, it was Leah Bowman, known as "Paige," who delivered. Bowman stepped in front of a pass and secured the game-sealing interception, sending the Rams' sideline into celebration and clinching back-to-back titles.
From explosive offensive plays to lockdown defense, the Rams displayed a complete team effort.
With the victory, WSSU not only defended its crown but also established itself as a rising powerhouse in CIAA women's flag football.
About Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem State University fosters the creative thinking, analytical problem-solving, and depth of character needed to transform the world. Rooted in liberal education, WSSU's curriculum prepares students to be thought leaders who have the skills and knowledge needed to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Founded in 1892, WSSU is a historically Black constituent institution of the University of North Carolina with a rich tradition of contributing to the social, cultural, intellectual, and economic growth of North Carolina, the region, and beyond. Guided by the motto, "Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve," WSSU develops leaders who advance social justice by serving the world with compassion and commitment. For more information, visit www.wssu.edu.
