HBCU Athletic Conference to Host Inaugural Champions of Character Volleyball Clinic in Shreveport-Bossier

Shreveport-Bossier City, LA – The HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) is thrilled to announce its inaugural Champions of Character Volleyball Clinic, presented by the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission and YMCA of Northwest Louisiana. This free clinic, dedicated to empowering young athletes through the core values of the NAIA's Champions of Character program, will take place on Sunday, November 10, from 1:00-3:45 p.m. at the YMCA BHP and Lash Family YMCA locations.

The Champions of Character Volleyball Clinic will be led by coaches and athletes from the eight HBCUAC schools competing in this year's HBCUAC Volleyball Championship, offering participants an opportunity to learn from exceptional role models. Divided into two sessions, the clinic will serve both middle and high school students. Middle schoolers are invited to join from 1:00-2:15 p.m., followed by the high school clinic from 2:30-3:45 p.m. at both YMCA venues. Space is limited, and parents are encouraged to register their students at visitshreveportbossier.org/sports.

"The Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission is thrilled to partner with the YMCA of Northwest Louisiana to host this volleyball clinic," said SBSC Director of Sports Sara Nelms. "Any opportunity to give back to youth in our area is a win for Shreveport-Bossier!"

Aligned with the HBCUAC's mission to support and serve the communities hosting its championships, the clinic is part of the NAIA's Champions of Character initiative. This program instills key values—integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership—aiming to develop character in both athletes and the broader sports community. Participants, including students, coaches, and parents, will receive guidance on integrating these values into their sports journey and beyond.

"Hosting the Champions of Character Volleyball Clinic reflects our commitment to developing the next generation of athletes who lead with integrity both on and off the court," said HBCUAC Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes. "We are honored to partner with the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission and YMCA of Northwest Louisiana to make this meaningful experience possible."

The program will provide students with training in volleyball skills and emphasize the importance of character development through practical sessions that demonstrate how to embody these values in real competition and team interactions.

For more information on the HBCU Athletic Conference, visit hbcuac.org.