City of Richmond recognizes Spider football

For the second-consecutive year, the Richmond City Council recognized the University of Richmond football team for its accomplishments during the season.

"Richmond City Council recognizes the University of Richmond Spiders football team as co-champions of the 2009 Colonial Athletic Association football season with a league 7-1 win-loss record," City Clerk Lou B. Ali said. "Over the years, the University of Richmond Spiders football team has continued to be a leader in the Colonial Athletic Association...

"For the second-straight year, the University of Richmond football team was also recognized by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, governing body of collegiate athletics, for its high graduation rates of football student-athletes."

President Kathy C. Graziano, who represents the 4th District; Bruce W. Tyler, who represents the 1st District; and Charles R. Samuels, who represents the 2nd District, presented the award to the Spiders at its monthly meeting on Monday night.

"We're very proud in the city of Richmond to have you representing us as the only football team in the city of Richmond at the collegiate level," Tyler said.

"Once again, thank you for a great effort. We look forward to next season in the new stadium out on campus."

Graziano congratulated the team on its success during the past two seasons and said she expected another conference championship next season. Samuels, who said he was wearing blue and red in honor of Richmond's school colors, thanked the team for the attention it had brought to the city.

The Spiders finished with an 11-2 record, losing in the Football Championship Subdivision quarterfinals to Appalachian State University, as Villanova University -- the other CAA co-champion and the only other team to beat Richmond -- went on to win the FCS championship. Last year, when the Spiders were the FCS champions, former Mayor Doug Wilder proclaimed Jan. 12, 2009, "University of Richmond NCAA Championship Day."

Director of Athletics Jim Miller, assistant coach Byron Thweatt, and juniors Eric McBride, Patrick Weldon and Drew Lachenmeyer accepted this year's award on behalf of the Spiders. Head coach Latrell Scott had a previous commitment and was unable to attend the meeting.

"I just want to personally thank everyone on behalf of the University of Richmond football team," Weldon said. "The city of Richmond does a fantastic job supporting us and this recognition is outstanding. We'll make sure we try to bring back another one next year."

Contact staff writer Barrett Neale at barrett.neale@richmond.edu