RICHMOND, Va. – The Emory & Henry College Football Team has been recognized in Virginia Living's first-ever "Best of Virginia" reader poll. The Wasps placed second in the Best Local Sports Team category in Southwest Virginia behind the Virginia Tech Hokies Football Team.
More than 10,000 readers responded to the poll conducted in February by the magazine, which features stories about life and cultural from around the state. The results of the poll were published in April as part of a special edition of Virginia Living.
In addition to regional accolades, E&H holds the distinction of being the only non-NCAA Division I team to be chosen across all five regions of the state.
"It comes as no surprise that our fans voted us to win this award," said Head Football Coach Don Montgomery, who will be entering his eighth season at the helm of the Wasps this fall. "Emory & Henry fans are extremely loyal and make Saturday afternoons here one of the best football environments around. They are also extremely supportive of our other teams and pack the stands for many home games."
E&H has some of the best fans in all of NCAA Division III as the Wasps maintained their hold on the number six spot in home attendance for a second year and have been listed in the top ten in the nation nine-straight seasons. An average of 4,567 fans came through the gates of Fred Selfe Stadium each Saturday for a five game total attendance of 22,834.
As a College, Emory & Henry earned two first-place selections in other categories. The 175-year old institution took top honors in the categories of Best College/University and Best Historic Site.
"Emory & Henry enjoys passionate support from its students and alumni from across the state, so we are not surprised to find that support reflected in this poll by this popular magazine," added Dirk Moore, Director of Public Relations.
Emory & Henry will begin the 2012 season on Saturday, September 1 when it travels to Ferrum College with kickoff set for 1:00 p.m. The Wasps will open the home portion of their schedule on Saturday, September 15 against the Monarchs of Methodist University, also at 1:00 p.m.
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