GCAC releasing mini doc on Dillard University Track & Field Program

NEW ORLEANS — Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Commissioner (GCAC) Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes recently announced the release of the conference’s first documentary. The Dillard University Track & Field Documentary premieres Friday, September 1 at 7 p.m. CT on the GCAC Network on HBCU+ Channel 02.

Dillard University’s Track and Field program, under the helm of Head Coach Nile Legania, has been featured in National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) rankings, captured several GCAC Track & Field Championship titles, and been honored with numerous awards over the last three years.

“I’m very excited for the premiere of this documentary,” said Baker Barnes. “Going into the 2023-2024 season, we wanted to do more to share impactful, inspiring stories from our member schools to highlight their incredible accomplishments and culture. This documentary is just the beginning of how we aim to accomplish that goal.”

Legania has been the anchor of success for this program and stands on principles of discipline and dedication.

“It’s been a great ride so far with my student-athletes,” said Legania. “The mission is to continue to graduate our student-athletes and win championships, all while grooming them for the real world.”

Grooming for the real world is very prevalent in this program. Standout sprinter Kevell Byrd (Luling, La.) is a talented videographer and producer. Jumper Christopher Watson (New Orleans, La.) joined the program without ever participating in the sport before stepping on Dillard’s campus. Their stories are a taste of what grit and determination Legania instills in his student-athletes. A don’t quit attitude circulates the Bleu Devils Track & Field program, and that attitude has guided them to multiple championships.

“I’m excited for the track and field program to be able to showcase their success, and the consistent hard work and dedication over the last three years,” said Dillard Athletic Director Dr. Linda Bell. “I’m glad other people get to see the work that goes into building a championship culture. Our goal is to build leaders among leaders, and this program has done an outstanding job of leading the way.”

The Dillard University Track & Field Documentary was produced, filmed, and edited by GCAC staff and interns.

“It has been great to see the work we’re doing in-house to elevate the voices on our campuses and provide a platform to tell stories,” said Baker Barnes. “Initiatives like our internship program and the launch of our media team make possible the documentaries and original series that will premiere and run on the GCAC Network on HBCU+.”

The documentary, which premieres September 1, 2023, at 7 p.m. CT will also replay daily at 5 p.m. CT through September 8 on GCAC Network Channel 02 on HBCU+. To watch the premiere, download HBCU+ on any smart television, or your Android or Apple mobile device. Fans can also watch online.

For more information and inquiries, contact Dani Wright at (504) 321-3362 or communications@gcaconf.com.