Charlotte Becomes a Temporary Home for Asheville Sports Teams
Charlotte, North Carolina, has stepped into an unexpected role as a warm and welcoming refuge for sports teams from Asheville following the devastation brought on by Hurricane Helene. Amid the chaos and uncertainty, student-athletes are finding solace and support during a challenging time.
A Shift in Seasons: From Mountain Towns to City Life
For senior UNC Asheville soccer player Michael Wilkerson, the experience since Hurricane Helene made landfall feels like a surreal “fever dream.” With his campus closed and classes postponed, he shares a sense of displacement but also a determination to keep the spirit of Asheville alive. “Growing up in Asheville, we’ve always believed that the mountains protect us,” Wilkerson reflects. “But sometimes, nature has other plans.”
Community Impact
The storm cut a swath through western North Carolina, leading to shuttered businesses and a temporary halt to daily life. Schools paused classes, but for the college athletes, the emphasis now isn’t just on survival; it’s about continuing their athletic seasons and fostering a sense of community—both on and off the field.
For the Asheville volleyball team, their home games have turned into road games, as they practice at the Halton Arena on the UNC Charlotte campus. Head coach Danielle Marante explains the challenges that have come with this shift, especially as someone who has faced the impacts of hurricanes before. “I’m from Florida, and I’ve seen how hurricanes can disrupt lives,” she says. “But watching it reach all the way to North Carolina has been eye-opening. We never expected this.”
A Helping Hand from Charlotte
The support from the Charlotte community hasn’t gone unnoticed by the teams. Athletic director Mike Hill shared his outreach to fellow athletic directors at several universities, offering whatever assistance he could muster. “It’s about unity,” Hill states. “These teams deserve the opportunity to continue their seasons in a supportive environment.”
What’s Next for Asheville Teams?
In the wake of the hurricane, it’s clear that Charlotte is more than just a location; it’s becoming a beacon of hope for the teams displaced from Asheville. Currently, the university’s campus remains closed until at least October 21st, halting in-person education and shifting classes to virtual formats. Students can look forward to returning to a semblance of normalcy when in-person classes resume on October 28th.
A Light for Asheville
Wilkerson encapsulates the spirit of resilience that defines this moment. He emphasizes, “We’re not just teammates; we’re family. Being here together, we can be a light for Asheville. We want everyone back home to know that we’re okay and we’ll continue to fight.”
How to Support the Community
As Asheville works to rebuild and recover, there are numerous ways individuals can show support for the communities affected by Hurricane Helene. From volunteering time to donating resources, every effort counts in helping these towns bounce back.
Charlotte has taken in these teams not just as athletes but as essential members of a larger community. The collaboration, empathy, and shared experiences between these student-athletes serve as a reminder of the enduring spirit of resilience found in the face of adversity. While the road ahead may be filled with challenges, the surrounding support and camaraderie can help pave the way for brighter days.
