Charles McNeil moved to Augusta in the early 1990’s when he accepted a job as a sports reporter for News Channel 6. Nearly 30 years later, he’s working with his wife’s advertising business to help teams at Augusta’s HBCU, Paine College.
McNeil and his wife, Zina, owner of Advertising Solutions, have partnered with the Georgia Soul Pro (men’s) Basketball team, which is comprised of former star players from CSRA high schools and colleges, to sell sponsorships that will benefit Paine College Athletics.
He’s also working with the Black College Sports Network to live stream the games. The team’s season kicks off Friday, March 3, and they’re offering various sponsorship levels that will include signage during the games and TV commercials, as well as tickets, food, and advertisements.
Georgia Soul, which is owned by former Laney High School and Augusta University basketball player, Nesia Wideman-Wright, will play 12 home games at Paine College’s HEAL Complex. These games will be like those played in the NBA with a DJ, courtside servers, and other features.
“A portion of the advertising dollars goes back to Paine for travel, uniforms, or whatever else they might need,” McNeil said. “Because they’re also playing their games at Paine College, our HBCU is getting the benefit as well.”
He recently retired after working in advertising for Comcast for 17 years. McNeil also live streams games for Augusta University Athletics.
For more information about sponsorships, visit georgiasoulmen.com/sponsorships/.
