The Rise of the Captains: A History of Christopher Newport University Football

The Christopher Newport Captains football team has become an integral part of the university's identity. Representing Christopher Newport University (CNU) in the NCAA Division III, the Captains compete as football-only members of the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC). Their home games are played at the 4,200-seat TowneBank Stadium, located on the university's campus in Newport News, Virginia. This article delves into the history of the CNU football program.

The Genesis of a Football Dream

By the late 1990s, the idea of introducing football to Christopher Newport University was gaining traction, fueled by enthusiasm from both the student body and the administration. This momentum eventually led to the establishment of the CNU football program.

The Kelchner Era: Building a Foundation (2001-2016)

Founded in 2001, the Captains were initially led by head coach Matt Kelchner. Kelchner's leadership laid the groundwork for the program's future success. In their inaugural season, the Captains achieved a significant milestone by winning the Dixie Conference championship.

Transition to Link: A New Chapter (2017-Present)

Following Kelchner's departure in 2016, Art Link became only the second head coach in CNU football history, beginning his tenure with the 2017 season. The program continues to evolve under his leadership.

Christopher Newport University: A Historical Overview

To fully appreciate the context of the football program's development, it's essential to understand the history of Christopher Newport University itself.

Read also: Employment at CNU

Early Years and Growth

Christopher Newport University was established and authorized by the Virginia General Assembly as a two-year branch of the College of William & Mary. Throughout its history, CNU has been guided by numerous leaders, each contributing to its growth and evolution:

Dr. James C. Windsor: Psychology professor and dean of students, Dr. James C. Windsor, became president.
Dr. John E. Anderson: Dr. John E. Anderson became president. After his tenure, he returned to teaching, retiring as a distinguished professor of psychology in 2003.
Dr. Anthony R. Santoro: Dr. Anthony R. Santoro became president, overseeing Christopher Newport’s transition to a residential campus. The first residence hall was completed in 1994 and named in honor of Santoro and his wife, Carol.
Senator Paul S. Trible Jr.: Senator Paul S. Trible Jr. became president. Trible oversaw improvements to academic offerings and a transformation of the campus into a world-class liberal arts and sciences university.

Academic and Campus Development

CNU has consistently focused on enhancing its academic programs and campus facilities. This commitment is reflected in the establishment of various schools and centers:

The President’s Leadership Program (PLP) was established.
The Ferguson Center for the Arts opened. Designed by the firm of renowned architect I. M. Pei, the Ferguson Center presents some of the finest cultural attractions in the world.
The David Student Union opened.
The Paul and Rosemary Trible Library opened.
The Luter School of Business was established. Named for longtime supporter and chairman of the board of Smithfield Foods, Joseph W. Luter III.
Lewis Archer McMurran, Jr. Hall opened. Named in honor of one of Christopher Newport’s early champions, the building houses the Departments of English, Government, History, Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures, and Philosophy and Religion.
Mary Brock Forbes Hall opened, and is home to the Departments of Molecular Biology and Chemistry, Organismal and Environmental Biology, Neuroscience, and Psychology. Mary Brock Forbes was a beloved Newport News educator and mother of Dr. Mary M.

The Luter School of Business was separated from the College of Social Sciences and led by a new dean, Dr. The new Christopher Newport Hall opens. Defining Significance: the First Comprehensive Campaign for Christopher Newport University ends.

Recent Initiatives and Achievements

CNU continues to pursue new initiatives and achieve significant milestones:

The university launched a new Community Captains program to ease local students' path to college. In partnership with Newport News Public Schools, the pioneering initiative offers local 10th graders special programming and guidance.
The university was selected as one of the first universities to participate in Virginia’s ambitious Tech-Talent Investment Program, a multimillion-dollar investment by the commonwealth in Christopher Newport’s students, facilities, faculty, and staff for the next two decades.
The university pivoted to an entirely online teaching format in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Women's soccer won the NCAA Division III national championship. The Captains were undefeated all season.
Softball won the NCAA Division III national championship. The Captains were dominant all season, finishing with a 47-1 record.
President Paul S. Rear Admiral (Ret.) William G.

Rankings and Recognition

Christopher Newport University has consistently received recognition for its academic quality and value. Forbes magazine ranks CNU No. News ranks Christopher Newport University the No.

TowneBank Stadium: Home of the Captains

TowneBank Stadium serves as the home field for the Christopher Newport Captains football team. With a seating capacity of 4,200, the stadium provides an intimate and spirited atmosphere for home games. Located on the university's campus, TowneBank Stadium is a focal point for CNU football fans and a symbol of the program's presence within the university community.

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