NINER 9 AND THE GOLDEN NINER

In 2021, UNC Charlotte launched a new Homecoming tradition: The Niner 9. Replacing the historic Homecoming court, which culminated in the selection of a King and Queen, The Niner 9 is an extraordinary group of students who represent the best of the University community and bring campus to life with their energy, school pride and dedication to Niner Nation. 

Each member of the Niner 9 is chosen through a competitive application process that seeks students who embody the spirit of UNC Charlotte and represent a variety of talents, interests, backgrounds, academic disciplines and campus involvement. All students are eligible to apply and candidates are chosen regardless of gender, gender identity and gender expression. 

Once selected, The Niner 9 then compete for the prestigious title of Golden Niner—an esteemed symbol of honor and recognition given to the student who most exemplifies the core values of UNC Charlotte. Throughout Niner Nation Homecoming Week, the Niner 9 have the opportunity to showcase their Niner spirit and the campus community votes on the most deserving individual.

The Golden Niner will be announced at halftime of the Homecoming game and will:

• Receive a $500 award and the Golden Niner Pickaxe
• Design a Golden Niner themed jacket or blazer of their choice 
• Be featured in UNC Charlotte promotional and storytelling campaigns 
• Have the opportunity to participate in notable experiences with Athletics, Admissions and other departments across campus
• Pass the Golden Niner Pickaxe onto the winner at next year’s Homecoming football game

Graduate student and History Department Graduate Teaching Assistant S.L. Ivey is Charlotte’s 2024 Golden Niner. He was selected from the prestigious Niner 9 and is the fourth student to be named in this young annual tradition. 

S.L. Ivey credits the second Charlotte Golden Niner, Raquan Leary ‘22 for sparking his interests to apply to Niner 9 and to overcome personal challenges of long-term substance abuse. Ivey says that he was a two-time college dropout trying to find the courage to return for a third attempt at earning a bachelor’s degree after rehab when he read Leary’s Golden Niner encouraging statement; “Manifest your goals and understand that the sky is not the limit.” “Nothing is impossible.” “If you work at your goals, you’re going to get it, but nothing you want in life is going to be easy. Obstacles are not stop signs; they are speed bumps. They may slow you down, but they won’t stop you unless you allow them to.”

Ivey claims Leary’s words inspired him to return to UNC Charlotte in his mid-40s to finish his degree. Ivey, a first-generation college graduate, earned a BA in political science in December 2023. He has been sober for 2.5 years and is pursuing a Master of Arts in history and an MPA with a nonprofit management specialization. 

As a graduate teaching assistant for Dr. Andre’s Post 1865 undergraduate American History course, Ivey feels very connected to the university and responsible to incoming niners. Ivey, the vice president of the Graduate History Association and a proud Aux Guide, has starred in several Auxiliary Services student-center campus videos promoting student activities and services. 

“The homecoming halftime Golden Niner announcement photo where I chuckle and point at 2023 Golden Niner Kenan Moore standing next to me is my favorite.” “I had spent the last year dreaming of that moment where he would stand next to me on the field and pass me the axe.” It was a far-fetched dream at my age and with my past, but Golden Niner Leary’s words regarding obstacles being nothing more than speed bumps helped me to manifest it!