ATLANTA — The SIAC and CIAA have announced the cancellation of the Pioneer Bowl for 2014.
SIAC commissioner Gregory Moore and CIAA commissioner Jacqie McWilliams gave affirmation issuing the following joint statements:
“After much consideration, the SIAC and the CIAA Division II Conferences have decided the Pioneer Bowl will not be played this year.
While the Pioneer Bowl stands as the longest running bowl game in the history of black colleges and a national showcase for student-athletes, we decided that it is in the best interest of our membership, fans and student-athletes to not hold the game this year. We are currently undecided if we will reinstate the Pioneer Bowl game in the future.”
“The CIAA and SIAC agreed that it was important to explore how best to continue conducting the game, but within the context of our strategic initiatives currently underway. The Pioneer Bowl is a unique opportunity for post play for our student-athletes and our members want to assure its presentation reflects the level of excellence and experience our fans and sponsors expect at all of our championship events. As we explore how best to take the Pioneer Bowl to the next level, we will provide further updates in the future.”
Founded in 1997, The Pioneer Bowl has been held in five locations since its inception originally in Atlanta, and in 2012 concluded a three-year agreement with the City of Columbus, Ga. The event was not held in 2002, 2008 and 2013.
Courtesy: SIAC
