MR. B RECEIVES HONOR

Bynum served 30 years as athletic trainer at N.C. A&T

GREENSBORO, N.C., September 8, 2005 – A host of school administrators, faculty, staff, and Aggie family attended the dedication of the Thomas “Mr. B” Sports Medicine Room, which was named after longtime athletic trainer Thomas “Mr. B” Bynum in a ceremony at Corbett Sports Center.

 “In light of the growth that the University has experienced recently, we must recognize the contributions of those who have meant so much for such a long period of time,” said Chancellor James C. Renick, who gave opening remarks at the event. “[Bynum] is responsible for some of the benefits that the athletics department enjoys.”

 “I’m delighted that ‘Mr. B’ is receiving this honor,” said Athletics Director DeLores Todd. “Many of us feel that he has deserved it for many years. Bynum is highly respected not only by his peers, but in the community as well. He loved N.C. A&T and dedicated his life to the growth of student-athletes.”

 Legendary A&T men’s basketball coach Don Corbett gave remarks at the occasion. “Mr. B never had a door closed in the 25 years that I worked with him. He endured several eras in N.C. A&T sports history. He touched many lives, even those who are here on staff now.

 “He would get here at 5 a.m., and wouldn’t leave until 10 p.m.  He took care of 14 sports by himself. He was a dedicated man”

 Bynum has received national recognition for his 30-year career as athletic trainer, which began in 1969. He has toured with several United States amateur teams in various countries, including Europe and China. He also served as a trainer for the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

 “I’ve always said this, but I’m just happy to be here, said Bynum. “N.C. A&T gave me a chance, and later, a second chance when no one else did. There is a “can do” spirit here, and the training I received here was insurmountable. I thank all of those who supported me through the years and the student-athletes, for they gave me inspiration.”

 The room, which is located on the basement floor of the gymnasium, has been in use since the building opened in 1981. It now dawns a plaque that reads Thomas “Mr. B” Bynum. Thanks in part to Bynum’s hard work and love for making sure N.C. A&T’s student-athletes and his student trainers excelled, N.C. A&T now has three trainers on staff and two training rooms on staff – one at the Bryan Fitness and Wellness Center and the newly named Thomas “Mr. B” Bynum Sports Medicine Room.