Coach from 'Remember the Titans' to speak at
Christopher Newport University

(NEWPORT NEWS, VA) — Coach Herman Boone, whose story was the basis for the film “Remember the Titans,” will share his message of respect, teamwork, community involvement and the importance of character at Christopher Newport University’s Ferguson Center for the Arts Concert Hall at 7 p.m. on Oct. 14. The film, in which Boone was portrayed by Academy Award-winner Denzel Washington, will be shown immediately following Boone’s speech. Both events are free and open to the public.

Herman Boone was head coach of an Alexandria, Va., high school football team that won the Virginia state championship in 1971. Racial tensions ran high in Alexandria as three schools integrated to form the T. C. Williams High School. The former rivalries between the schools, coupled with the strain between the black and white players, escalated when Boone, assistant coach of the former black T. C. Williams High School, was named head coach of the Titans. The coaches put aside their prejudices and unified their players to form a team with a common vision of respect. The Titans became one of the best teams in Virginia, compiling a 13-0 record and a state championship.

Boone is now retired from coaching, but he continues to speak and inspire audiences. CNU Campus Activities Board (CAB) and the Office of Student Activities are sponsoring the event. For additional information contact the Office of Student Activities at (757) 594-7260 or email osl@cnu.edu.