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Gladiator/Gladiatrix Wrestling Coming to Asheville

**Gladiator/Gladiatrix Wrestling Series National Qualifier Lands in Asheville, NC, June 2026**

The Elite Wrestling Tournament, Presented by ScrapLife, is Set to Bring Hundreds of Athletes to Asheville, North Carolina, Driving Sports Tourism.

ASHEVILLE, NC, February 4, 2026

Team IP, the world’s leading event merchandising and branding company and event owner (in partnership with R.E.A.C.H.E.S.), today announced a strategic partnership with the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission to host a major qualifying tournament for the inaugural Gladiator/Gladiatrix Wrestling Series (GGWS) National Championship.

The Gladiator Gauntlet National Qualifier, Presented by ScrapLife, will take place from June 5–7, 2026, in Asheville, welcoming elite wrestlers from across the region to compete for a coveted spot in the GGWS finals.

The Gladiator Gauntlet National Championship will follow shortly after, from July 1–3, 2026, in the beautiful setting of Daytona Beach, Florida, where the first official Gladiator and Gladiatrix champions will be crowned.

The Asheville "Playcation" Destination

Asheville is the ideal host city, offering participants and fans an exceptional "playcation" experience. Beyond the mats, athletes and their families can explore Asheville’s unique mountain culture, renowned culinary scene, craft breweries, the Asheville Pinball Museum, and scenic outdoor adventures, providing a perfect blend of high-stakes competition and family entertainment.

Randy Sparks, CEO and Founder of Team IP and Owner of the Gladiator/Gladiatrix Wrestling Series expressed enthusiasm for the new host city.

“Bringing the high-caliber competition of the Gladiator/Gladiatrix series to Asheville is a perfect match. This region has a deep appreciation for athletics and a vibrant culture that will make the qualifying event truly memorable. With the expertise of the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission and the support of our presenting sponsor, ScrapLife, we are set to deliver an unparalleled experience that elevates the sport and honors our athletes.”

Chris Smith, President of the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission, highlighted the impact on the community.

“We are thrilled to partner with Team IP to host the Gladiator National Qualifier. This event aligns perfectly with our mission to attract high-quality sporting events that drive significant economic impact and showcase our beautiful region,” said Smith. “We look forward to welcoming the nation’s best young wrestlers and their families to experience the unique blend of mountain sport and culture that makes Asheville a premier destination.”

Commitment to Excellence

The combined resources of the partners guarantee a professional, high-quality event experience and robust brand presence, managed exclusively by Team IP and R.E.A.C.H.E.S.. The GGWS anticipates attracting hundreds of elite athletes and thousands of fans to each qualifying event, driving significant economic impact in each host city.

About Gladiator/Gladiatrix Wrestling Series (GGWS):

The Gladiator/Gladiatrix Wrestling Series (GGWS) is the premier national combat series dedicated to promoting and elevating the sport of wrestling, with a specific focus on placing female wrestling (Gladiatrix) at the forefront. Built on the core values of discipline, sportsmanship, and excellence, the GGWS champions a new generation of wrestlers through a high-stakes, competitive environment. The series operates through a powerful and purpose-driven partnership among industry leaders: Team IP, a veteran in event merchandising and brand development; R.E.A.C.H.E.S. (www.reachesports.org), a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering community and athletic opportunity and dedicates funds raised back into amateur wrestling; and legendary wrestling figure Jeff "Peanut" Bowyer. Together, they are committed to delivering an unparalleled experience for athletes, fans, and partners nationwide. **** Read more at: https://gladiatorseries.com

About ScrapLife (Presenting Sponsor):

ScrapLife is a leading designer and distributor of performance wrestling apparel and accessories, founded on the ethos of hard work, respect, and perseverance. Team IP is an equity owner and strategic partner in ScrapLife, utilizing its nationwide fulfillment and distribution network to expand the brand's reach and impact. ScrapLife’s commitment to quality and innovation aligns perfectly with the GGWS mission to support and elevate the wrestling community. Visit ScrapLife: https://www.scraplife.com

About Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission:

Since 2010, the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission has worked to identify and attract sporting events and related meetings to enhance the health, wellness, and quality of life for Asheville residents and sports enthusiasts in the region of Western North Carolina. Generating a positive economic impact while promoting our region as a recognized top-tier sporting destination. The Commission team works with event organizers, both locally and nationally, to showcase the Asheville community and its sports venues as the ideal location for their next event. The Asheville Buncombe County Sports Commission is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit with the mission to host memorable sporting events while enriching the lives of sports organizations and the community served. Learn more: https://ashevillesportscommission.com

Media Contacts:

Gladiator/Gladiatrix Wrestling Series / Team IP

Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission

Stanton Smith

ssmith@TeamIP.com

(954) 614-5005

Chris Smith

chris@ashevillesports.org

(828) 280-6458

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Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission Proudly Announces The Christ School Classic Basketball Tournament

Christ School to Host First-Ever Nike EYBL Scholastic Tournament

Arden, N.C. — Christ School will welcome some of the nation’s top prep basketball programs this February, as it hosts the Christ School Classic, a Nike EYBL Scholastic tournament taking place February 20–22 on campus in Arden. The event marks the first Nike EYBL scholastic tournament ever hosted by Christ School and the school’s debut season competing in the prestigious Nike EYBL league.

The Christ School Classic will feature five nationally recognized programs, including Christ School, Montverde Academy, The St. James, Brewster Academy, and La Lumiere School. Each program competes on the Nike EYBL Scholastic circuit, a league widely regarded as the premier platform for high school basketball in the country.

The tournament will be operated and organized by The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission.

Fans attending the Christ School Classic will have the opportunity to watch elite-level competition featuring nationally ranked teams and some of the most highly recruited high school athletes in the nation. College coaches and scouts closely follow Nike EYBL Scholastic events, making this tournament a rare chance for the local community to experience top-tier basketball right in Western North Carolina.

“Having this opportunity to play at home, in front of the best fans within the State of NC is an honor,” said Christ School Head Coach, Erasto Hatchett. “Our community has always and continues to support our program and this will be an amazing opportunity for the guys to showcase their hard work and commitment to Christ School and our community, against the very best talent and teams in the nation. To partner with a national brand such as Nike is an honor and we are extremely fortunate to be not just a member of the Scholastic but a member of the brotherhood of like minded schools.”

While the national spotlight will shine on the caliber of play, the Christ School Classic also represents a special moment for the local community. This tournament gives fans the chance to cheer on Christ School as it begins its first season in the Nike EYBL Scholastic League, competing against some of the most established programs in prep basketball.

“This will be an incredible opportunity for our community to witness high level elite basketball at its finest with lots of potential college stars and possibly even a few future NBA stars under one roof here on Christ School campus,” added Christ School Athletic Director, Duncan Parham. “We take pride here in representing our community along with the Arden / Asheville area. The impact this event will have on our athletes is huge. Being able to compete in front of some of the top Universities in the country and to be evaluated by NBA scouts is not an opportunity that comes by on a regular basis, and to have all the games streamed on NBATV, ESPNU, ESPN + and League Ready is a bonus. Along with being able to do that in front of your home crowd, in your own gym, in front of your home community is priceless. This will also allow our community to see up close just how the future of HS basketball will look for those Elite Schools that Nike has selected to be part of the EYBL Scholastic League.”

The tournament schedule includes six games played across three days, highlighted by multiple marquee matchups featuring Christ School against nationally ranked opponents. The event is expected to draw basketball fans, families, and supporters from across the region while creating a memorable home-court atmosphere for the Greenies.

Tickets for the Christ School Classic are on sale now!

The Christ School Classic promises a weekend of high-energy competition, national-level talent, and a meaningful opportunity for the Western North Carolina community to support Christ School at the highest level of scholastic basketball.

For tickets, schedules, and additional event visit:

Tickets, Schedule, and More!

Since 2010, Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission has worked to identify and attract sporting events and related meetings to enhance the health, wellness and quality of life for Asheville residents and sports enthusiasts in the region of Western North Carolina. Generating a positive economic impact while promoting our region as a recognized top tier sporting destination. The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission team works with event organizers, both locally and nationally, to showcase the Asheville community and its sports venues as the ideal location for their next event. Asheville Buncombe County Sports Commission is a 501(c)(3) not-for profit with the mission to host memorable sporting events while enriching the lives of sports organizations and the community served.

WAYS YOU CAN HELP THE SPORTS COMMISSION:

Donate

Sponsorship Interest Form

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Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission Proudly Announces Partnership with Hepp Creative Solutions

The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission is pleased to announce that it has entered into a partnership with Hepp Creative Solutions, effective immediately, Stacey Hepp, the Managing Partner of Hepp Creative Solutions, brings over 20 years of experience working between National Governing Bodies in the sports world and also the entertainment sector and will assist ABRSC with its marketing strategy, events and branding.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Stacey and think that she will definitely help us strengthen partnerships within our sports and entertainment organizations,” said Chris Smith, President of the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission. “From creating marketing campaigns to helping manage events and organize sponsorships, Stacey brings a wealth of experience to the table.”

Hepp has previously served as the Marketing Director for USA Softball, USA Canoe/Kayak and in event optimization for USA Archery. She has also managed the bid processes and developed partnerships with five Olympic Team Trials and Pan American Championships.

“I’m thrilled to be partnering with the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission. I know ABRSC has been instrumental as the backbone in securing and hosting tournaments as well as sought after championships for the region,” said Hepp. “I’m looking forward to strategizing with the ABRSC team, working to grow the opportunity for world class sporting events across beautiful Western North Carolina”

Hepp has also worked with Radio Disney and helped open Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, Harrah’s New Orleans and Harrah’s Showboat Property. With Radio Disney, Hepp increased the partner base in the North and South Carolina markets by 78 percent. She also incorporated the sport of softball with USA Softball into Major League Baseball’s Play Ball initiative.

For more information, contact Chris Smith at (828) 280-6458 or chris@ashevillesports.org.

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Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission Announces New Hire

The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission is pleased to announce that Lucas Owens has joined its staff as Director of Events, effective immediately,

“We’re very excited about the addition of Lucas to our team and feel that he brings not only valuable experience, but also an understanding of what we hope to accomplish as an organization,” said President Chris Smith. “Lucas brings a wealth of experience and a forward-thinking approach to the role, ensuring that the commission continues its mission of promoting Western North Carolina and the Asheville-Buncombe area as a premier sports destination,”

Prior to joining the Sports Commission, Lucas served as both the Director of Site Operations and Senior Director of Events of The Carolinas for Prospect Select. Most recently, Owens was the Buncombe County Sports Manager for YMCA of WNC.

“I am very excited to bring my knowledge of sports/event management to the ABRSC,” Owens said. “Asheville has been my home for the last 12 years and seeing the work that the ABRSC has done for the community is truly inspirational. I am glad to be a part of this team and cannot wait to bring exciting new opportunities to our community!”

Lucas is a 2016 graduate of UNC-Asheville where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Business with a concentration in marketing, while also starring on the Bulldog baseball team for four years. Following his time at UNC-Asheville, the Forest City native continued his career in independent professional baseball before taking his talents overseas to compete internationally in Vienna, Austria. After hanging up his cleats, Lucas transitioned into the sports operations world.

“His extensive background in event planning and his passion for sports make him the ideal candidate to lead our events department,” added Smith. “His vision aligns with our goal of fostering a vibrant sports community and driving tourism in the region."

Owens is known for his innovative strategies and forward-thinking mindset. He has a proven track record of leveraging technology and community partnerships to create unforgettable experiences for athletes and spectators alike. His commitment to inclusivity and sustainability will play a crucial role in shaping the future of events hosted by the ABRSC.

In his new position, Owens will oversee all aspects of event planning and execution for the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission. He will lead efforts to attract new events to the area, enhance existing ones, and expand outreach to the community. His strategic vision aims to increase participation and engagement, ultimately benefiting the local economy and enhancing the region's reputation as a premier sports destination.

For more information, contact Chris Smith at (828) 280-6458 or chris@ashevillesports.org.

Since 2010, Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission has worked to identify and attract sporting events and related meetings to enhance the health, wellness and quality of life for Asheville residents and sports enthusiasts in the region of Western North Carolina. Generating a positive economic impact while promoting our region as a recognized top tier sporting destination. The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission team works with event organizers, both locally and nationally, to showcase the Asheville community and its sports venues as the ideal location for their next event. Asheville Buncombe County Sports Commission is a 501(c)(3) not-for profit with the mission to host memorable sporting events while enriching lives of sports organizations and the community served.

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SoCon Volleyball Championship set for Asheville

SoCon Volleyball Championship set for Asheville

Tickets now on sale for conference’s first neutral site volleyball championship in November

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Southern Conference, in conjunction with Ingles, Explore Asheville, the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission, and Harrah’s Cherokee Center, will host its 2025 Ingles SoCon Volleyball Championship in Asheville, North Carolina, at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville on Nov. 20-23.

Tickets for the championship tournament are on sale now. Daily general admission and New Belgium Courtside Lounge passes are available for $15 and $35, respectively. Tickets for students from SoCon institutions are $10. The New Belgium Courtside Lounge packages include access to courtside seating, two drink tickets and light complimentary snacks. Get your tickets and learn more at https://soconsports.com/wvb today. Hotels for the tournament can be found at https://www.exploreasheville.com/places-to-stay/.

The 2025 volleyball championship marks the first time in the conference’s history that the tournament will be hosted exclusively at a neutral location for all teams. The championship was slated to be in Asheville in 2024 but was moved to Wofford in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Samford leads all current members in tournament titles with seven, the most recent victory coming in 2022. ETSU, Furman and Western Carolina each boast three tournament wins. Wofford will be looking to win its third straight tournament crown in Asheville this season.

The SoCon and the city of Asheville have been linked for many years. The conference was headquartered in Asheville from 1986-2002 and the last 14 SoCon Basketball Championships have been played inside Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville. The basketball tournament was also in Asheville from 1984-95. The volleyball championship will be hosted in Asheville through 2027.

ABOUT THE SOUTHERN CONFERENCE

The Southern Conference is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina, consisting of 10 full-member schools across six states in 20 sponsored sports. Nine other institutions serve as affiliate members in the SoCon-sponsored sports of wrestling and rifle. The SoCon is celebrating its 104th anniversary in 2025. The fifth-oldest NCAA Division I college athletic association, the SoCon contested the first-ever collegiate conference basketball tournament in 1921, tackled freshman eligibility in 1922, became the first conference to adopt the 3-point field goal in basketball in 1980 and developed women’s championships in 1984.

ABOUT ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE REGIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION

The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission was formed in the fall of 2010 by a handful of civic-minded leaders who had a vision to impact the local economy by bringing more sporting events to the region. The Sports Commission attracts sports events and related meetings to enhance the health, wellness, and quality of life for area residents and sports enthusiasts and will generate a positive economic impact by promoting our region as a recognized sporting destination.

ABOUT HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CENTER - ASHEVILLE (HCCA)

Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville (HCCA), which features the ExploreAsheville.com Arena and Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, has hosted a diverse variety of events that reflect the creativity, uniqueness, and artistry that Asheville, N.C., and Western North Carolina is known for primarily. In recent years, the facility has hosted world-class sporting events such as NBA Preseason Games, three Billie Jean King Cups by BNP Paribas ties, the annual Ingles Southern Conference Basketball Championships, Asheville Championship, and the Camping World Maui Invitational as well as music and performances by Noah Kahan, Bob Dylan, The Lumineers, Dave Chappelle, John Prine, Old Dominion, Sturgill Simpson, Kacey Musgraves, Widespread Panic, Billy Strings, Warren Haynes’ Christmas Jam, and more.

ABOUT EXPLORE ASHEVILLE AND THE BUNCOMBE COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

Explore Asheville is the official destination marketing and management organization for one of the most vibrant destinations in the southeast. Explore Asheville is powered by the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, a public authority that has been investing in and building community since 1983. The authority has committed $96 million to more than 50 community capital projects including many sports venues.

-www.SoConSports.com-

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Asheville Selected as One of Only Six Host Sites Nationwide For New U.S. Open Family Day Event

USTA NORTH CAROLINA
Contact: Morgan Lugo
morgan@nctennis.com
(336)283-8879

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASHEVILLE SELECTED AS ONE OF ONLY SIX HOST
NATIONWIDE FOR NEW US OPEN FAMILY DAY EVENT

Asheville, N.C. (August 11, 2025) - Asheville has been chosen as one of only six communities across the country to host a brand-new US Open Family Day, a free event designed to bring the excitement of the US Open to local communities.

The event will take place on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Aston Park Tennis Center (336 Hilliard Ave, Asheville, NC 28801). Families and community members of all ages and tennis experience levels are invited to enjoy a fun-filled day of on-court activities, food, and a tournament watch party.

Activities include Red Ball Tennis and Cardio Tennis on court, along with a giant projector screen showing live tournament matches, food and refreshments, and an ice cream truck. No racquet? No problem! All equipment will be provided, and everyone is welcome to participate.

Debbie Southern, USTA North Carolina First Vice President and Past President of the Asheville Tennis Association, had this to say about the event: “We are super excited for Asheville to be chosen as one of six cities in the US to host US Open Family Day! This event will bring our tennis community together for a day of fun games, food and fellowship! Hopefully we will introduce tennis to new adults and children, too!”

This exciting event is a collaborative effort between the USTA, Asheville Tennis Association, Explore Asheville, and the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission, who are thrilled to bring the energy and community spirit of the US Open to Western North Carolina.

Registration is preferred but not required. Those interested can REGISTER HERE.

###

USTA North Carolina (USTA NC) is the state office of the United States Tennis Organization, the national governing body of tennis. USTA NC is a nonprofit organization formerly known as the North Carolina Tennis Association (NCTA), founded in 1973 to promote and develop the game of tennis in North Carolina. USTA NC administers a variety of programs statewide for players of all ages and ability levels. As a nonprofit organization, the Association invests 100% of its proceeds to promote and develop the growth of tennis in NC. There are currently more than 38,000 USTA members residing in North Carolina, including over 15,000 juniors and 23,000 adults. A professional staff housed in Greensboro carries out USTA NC’s daily operations, but policy is formed and much of the organization’s work is executed via a Board of Directors and committee structure of more than 75 volunteers. USTA NC also fosters partnerships with Community Tennis Associations (CTAs) and local National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) organizations for grassroots community outreach.

Click here for the USTA North Carolina website, Facebook, Instagram.

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Inaugural Blue Ridge Volleyball Classic presented by Ingles is Set for September 5-6, 2025

Blue Ridge Volleyball Classic Presented by Ingles Markets sets inaugural date for September 5-6, 2025, at Harrah’s Cherokee Center - Asheville

The four-team women’s volleyball tournament will feature Western Carolina, College of Charleston, Bradley University, and UNC at Charlotte

Tickets are on sale now via BlueRidgeVolleyballClassic.com.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – The Blue Ridge Volleyball Classic Presented by Ingles Markets, in conjunction with Explore Asheville, the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission, and Lightstrike Hard Refresher, will host its inaugural event in Asheville, North Carolina, at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville on September 5-6, 2025. The lineup includes women’s volleyball teams from Western Carolina, Bradley University, the College of Charleston, and UNC at Charlotte, each playing three matches over two days. Tickets are available for purchase via BlueRidgeVolleyballClassic.com or Ticketmaster.com and at the iHeart Media Asheville Box Office located at the venue.

“Explore Asheville is thrilled to build upon Asheville’s collective and long-standing commitment to top-tier men's and women's sporting events such as the inaugural Blue Ridge Volleyball Classic and our relationship with Southern Conference championship events,” said Vic Isley, President & CEO of Explore Asheville. “We help our community win through investing in capital projects and attracting new events. The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority’s Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) investment in championship-quality, multi-sport courts for the ExploreAsheville.com Arena, in partnership with the City of Asheville, is enabling our community to recover the vitality of our economy, community, and region following Hurricane Helene."

WHAT: Blue Ridge Volleyball Classic Presented by Ingles Markets
WHEN: September 5-6, 2025
WHERE: ExploreAsheville.com Arena at Harrah’s Cherokee Center - Asheville | 87 Haywood Street Asheville, NC * 28801
TICKETS: Tickets are available at the venue’s iHeart Media Asheville Box Office and Ticketmaster.com.
EVENT WEBSITE: Event Link
TO BOOK: HOTEL RESERVATIONS

This event is the first collegiate volleyball event to be held in the venue’s history. It will serve as the first collegiate event preceding the 2025 Ingles Southern Conference Women’s Volleyball Championship in November 2025.

“Western North Carolina has become a hotbed for quality high school volleyball. With Brevard, Polk County, and West Henderson claiming recent state championships and the storied tradition at Hendersonville High (state record of 12 championships), there’s little doubt that our region can compete with the best that the state has to offer. The Blue Ridge Volleyball Classic will show those athletes and area fans firsthand what it takes to compete at the college level,” said Chris Smith, President, Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission. “This event will serve as a great precursor to the Ingle’s Southern Conference Volleyball Tournament at the same venue in November.”

Western Carolina of the Southern Conference kicks off an extensive early season on the road as the host team for the Blue Ridge Volleyball Classic. Following a 8-21 record in 2024, two-time Southern Conference Coach of the Year Karen Glover, in her 15th year at WCU, returns nine letterwinners from the 2024 squad, including two of its top defensive threats from a season ago: senior Janelle Blue (111 blocks, 156 kills) and classmate Samantha Jo Mikosky (73 blocks). Learn more at https://catamountsports.com/sports/womens-volleyball.

Bradley University, led by Head Coach Alicia Williams, opens up its first high-level road trip schedule in Asheville after a 15-16 record in 2024 before diving into its Missouri Valley Conference schedule. The Braves are poised to bring their competitive “Hilltop” style of play to Asheville. Learn more at https://bradleybraves.com/sports/womens-volleyball.

Head Coach Benavia Jenkins leads the UNC at Charlotte 49ers, a member of the American Athletic Conference, to Asheville to rack up early wins with Seasoned returners like Jessica Ricks, Kristen Birmingham, and Lauren Nixon, who were mainstays in last year’s matches. Learn more at https://charlotte49ers.com/sports/womens-volleyball.

The College of Charleston Cougars finished 25-9 in the Coastal Athletic Association Conference and will face Bradley for the first time. Head Coach Jason Kepner hopes that the recent transfers of Emma Duffield, Rosa Brencic, Izzy Marinelli, Lauren Dow, and Lainee Mack will keep the 2025 team rolling with victories. Learn more at https://cofcsports.com/sports/womens-volleyball.

All four schools are also 2025 recipients of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Team Academic Award sponsored by INTENT. The award honors collegiate and high school volleyball teams that displayed excellence in the classroom during the school year by maintaining at least a 3.30 cumulative team grade-point average on a 4.0 scale or a 4.10 cumulative team GPA on a 5.0 scale.

“Asheville, much like the rest of the country, is a volleyball community. Following the 2024 Ingles Southern Conference Volleyball Championship relocation due to Hurricane Helene’s damage in Western North Carolina, our venue partnered with AVL Hoppers, a local volleyball non-profit, to raise over $15,000 for local groups affected by the storm,” Christopher Corl, General Manager of Harrah’s Cherokee Center - Asheville, said. “Xcel Volleyball continues to be the recognized leader in Western North Carolina's elite club scene, and multiple local and regional high schools continue to win state championships. This tournament will continue to grow because of our community’s commitment to this sport and our commitment to bringing high-level volleyball events like this to our community.”

Tickets for the championship tournament are on sale now for all-day at $10 and half-day at $5, with discounts available for youth, groups, and City of Asheville employees. Get your tickets and learn more at BlueRidgeVolleyballClassic.com today. Hotels for the tournament can be found at https://www.exploreasheville.com/places-to-stay.

ABOUT ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE REGIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION
The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission was formed in the fall of 2010 by a handful of civic-minded leaders with a vision to impact the local economy by bringing more sporting events to the region. The Sports Commission attracts sports events and related meetings to enhance the health, wellness, and quality of life for area residents and sports enthusiasts and will generate a positive economic impact by promoting our region as a recognized sporting destination.

ABOUT EXPLORE ASHEVILLE AND THE BUNCOMBE COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Explore Asheville is the official destination marketing and management organization for one of the most vibrant destinations in the southeast. Explore Asheville is powered by the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, a public authority that has been investing in and building community since 1983. The authority has committed $96 million to more than 50 community capital projects including many sports venues.

ABOUT HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CENTER - ASHEVILLE
Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville (HCCA), which features the ExploreAsheville.com Arena and Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, annually hosts a diverse variety of events that reflect the creativity, uniqueness, and artistry that Asheville, N.C., and Western North Carolina are known for. In recent years, the facility has hosted world-class sporting events such as NBA Preseason Games, two Billie Jean King Cups Ties, the Ingles Southern Conference Basketball & Volleyball Championships, Blue Ridge Volleyball Championship, Asheville Championship, and the Camping World Maui Invitational as well as music and performances by Bob Dylan, The Lumineers, Dave Chappelle, John Prine, Old Dominion, Sturgill Simpson, Kacey Musgraves, Widespread Panic, Billy Strings, Warren Haynes’ Christmas Jam, and more. For more information, visit HarrahsCherokeeCenterAsheville.com.

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Hurricane Helene recovery forces SoCon Volleyball Championship venue change

SoCon Volleyball Championship moves from Asheville, N.C. to Spartanburg, S.C.

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The 2024 Ingles Southern Conference Volleyball Championship, originally slated for Asheville, North Carolina, will be contested on Nov. 21-24 at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

"We heard very clearly from some of our closest partners – Ingles Markets, Explore Asheville, Harrah's Cherokee Center - Asheville, and the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission - that it is in everyone's best interest to move this year's Ingles SoCon Volleyball Championship to allow Asheville time to recover from the effects of Hurricane Helene” said SoCon Commissioner Michael Cross. “Asheville has been an outstanding host for many SoCon championships and we look forward to playing at the Harrah's Cherokee Center – Asheville next year. We extend prayers and support to everyone who has been effected by this tragic and heartbreaking situation. We appreciate Wofford College's willingness to host the Championship on short notice and are looking forward to providing an outstanding championship experience for our student-athletes, coaches and fans."

The tournament will begin on Thursday, Nov. 21, with the No. 9 seed facing the No. 8 seed. Quarterfinal matches will take place at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. on Friday. The semifinals will begin at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, with the championship match slated for 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24. All times are eastern.

The Southern Conference is helping with the recovery efforts in Asheville by partnering with World Central Kitchen to help provide meals. Donations can be made here.

All pre-sale tickets that were purchased for the tournament in Asheville will be honored at Wofford. Ticketmaster has reached out to those who purchased seats for the event and have offered refunds if fans who are unable to attend in Spartanburg.

Samford leads all current members in tournament titles with seven, the most recent victory coming in 2022. ETSU, Furman and Western Carolina each boast three tournament wins. The 2023 champion Wofford, who won the first women’s tournament title in school history last November, will be looking to repeat this season and return to the NCAA Tournament.

ABOUT THE SOUTHERN CONFERENCE

The Southern Conference is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina, consisting of 10 full member schools across six states in 20 sponsored sports. Nine other institutions serve as affiliate members in the SoCon-sponsored sports of wrestling and rifle. The SoCon is celebrating its 103rd anniversary in 2024. The fifth-oldest NCAA Division I college athletic association, the SoCon contested the first-ever collegiate conference basketball tournament in 1921, tackled freshman eligibility in 1922, became the first conference to adopt the 3-point field goal in basketball in 1980 and developed women’s championships in 1984.

ABOUT ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE REGIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION

ABOUT HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CENTER - ASHEVILLE (HCCA)

ABOUT EXPLORE ASHEVILLE AND THE BUNCOMBE COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

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Great Smoky Mountain Beach Wrestling Championships

USA BEACH WRESTLING TOUR OF AMERICA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 26, 2024

Contact: Ed Duncan (edduncan160@gmail.com), Chris Smith (chris@ashevillesports.org)

Beach Wrestling Comes to Asheville

The Inaugural Great Smoky Mountain Beach Wrestling Championships set for October 5th

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Summer is still happening in the mountains of Western North Carolina!

USA Beach Wrestling in conjunction with the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission and the High Country Youth League are bringing the fun and excitement of beach wrestling to Carrier Park in Asheville on Saturday, October 5th.

Beach Wrestling is one of the fastest growing styles of wrestling in the world and while events in Eastern North Carolina have become regular offerings, this mountain event is a first for the area.

"We're excited to be extending the footprint of beach wrestling to our local community," said Ed Duncan, event coordinator for USA Beach Wrestling and director of the High Country Youth League. "The event is about Sand, Sun, and FUN, and it doesn't matter if it's a beach, a lake, or a local park, it's going to be a good time."

‘We can’t wait for our community to be able to host and witness beach wrestling, as it’s a sport that will be a great addition to the local sports portfolio,” said Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission President Chris Smith. “This truly is a sport that brings exciting future opportunities for our region.”

Area clubs and wrestlers have participated on a national and even international level in the style. Last fall, Mitchell High School’s Halley Wheeler participated in the U20 and Senior World Championships, as did TC Roberson's Connor and Lilly Reece. This year, Alicia Reyes of Hendersonville will represent Team USA at the U17 Championships in Katerini, Greece, accompanied by the S. Matthew Baynard Foundation's Randall and Cheryl Baynard as coaches and team leaders.

“To have Asheville’s first foray into beach wrestling guided by Ed Duncan and Cheryl Baynard is quite the coup,” Smith added. “Ed and Cheryl bring a tremendous amount of expertise and knowledge and that can only spell great success for the Great Smoky Mountain Beach Wrestling Championship.”

The Great Smoky Mountain Beach Wrestling Championships is open to wrestlers of all ages. There will be both men's and women's divisions, as well as a "King/Queen of the Ring Competition". Weigh-ins get underway at noon, with wrestling action getting started around 2:00pm.

For more information visit the event website at www.ncwrestling.org

Photo Credit - Ed Duncan/USA Beach Wrestling

ABOUT ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE REGIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION

ABOUT HIGH COUNTRY YOUTH LEAGUE

The High Country Youth League is the largest youth wrestling organization in Western North Carolina. We serve over twenty-five counties by providing affordable wrestling instruction for youth wrestlers as well as developmental based competitions.

ABOUT USA BEACH WRESTLING

From the days of Roman soldiers practicing for amphibious landings on the shores of the ancient Mediterranean, to the modern beaches of today, sand or “Beach” wrestling, has been an important international style of combat sport. Countless variations of “beach wrestling” have existed for millennium, however, common grounds had to be found in order to allow sportsmen from the different regions and countries to compete in official championships and games.

ABRSC 7/23/24 ABRSC 7/23/24

SoCon Volleyball Championship set for Asheville

Southern Conference Volleyball
702 N. Pine Street · Spartanburg, SC 29303
864-591-5100 · 864-591-3448 (Fax)
www.SoConSports.com
______________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2024
Contact: Ralan Wardlaw (rwardlaw@socon.org)

SoCon Volleyball Championship set for Asheville

Tickets now on sale for conference’s first neutral site volleyball championship in November

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Southern Conference, in conjunction with Ingles, Explore Asheville, the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission, and Harrah’s Cherokee Center, will host its 2024 Ingles SoCon Volleyball Championship in Asheville, North Carolina, at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville on Nov. 21-24.

"The Southern Conference has an amazing partnership with Asheville, North Carolina and our mutual desire to host the SoCon Volleyball Championship at the Harrah's Cherokee Center further solidifies this strong relationship,” SoCon Commissioner Michael Cross said.

The 2024 volleyball championship marks the first time in the conference’s history that the tournament will be hosted exclusively at a neutral location for all teams.

“I’m thrilled that the Southern Conference has chosen to host the 2024 Volleyball Championship at a neutral site this November,” Chattanooga head coach Julie Torbett Thomas said. “Asheville is no stranger to hosting major events and I have no doubt that they will go above and beyond to deliver a first-class volleyball championship. Volleyball is the fastest-growing spectator sport in our country, and its an exciting time for everyone to get on board and see why women’s volleyball is skyrocketing in popularity.”

“When the Sports Commission first approached the Southern Conference about the prospects of bringing its volleyball championship to Asheville, we thought it would be a great fit. Now, we know it will be a success in Asheville,” Executive Director of the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission Chris Smith said. “Having Ingles as the title sponsor brings instant credibility and partnering with Explore Asheville allows us the opportunity to roll out the red carpet to the SoCon student-athletes and fans. With such an amazing volleyball community already in place, this tournament has tremendous room for growth.”

The SoCon and the city of Asheville have been linked for many years. The conference was headquartered in Asheville from 1986-2002 and the last 13 SoCon Basketball Championships have been played inside Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville. The basketball tournament was also in Asheville from 1984-95. The volleyball championship will be hosted in Asheville through 2026.

“As the official destination marketing and management organization, Explore Asheville is thrilled to build on Asheville’s collective and long-standing partnership with the Southern Conference,” Vic Isley, President & CEO of Explore Asheville said. “Our recent investment in multi-sport courts for the ExploreAsheville.com arena, in partnership with the City, enabled our community to expand into women’s volleyball. This championship will add to the vitality of our economy, community, and region.”

“We are happy to do our part as the event promoter in securing another key sports championship event in partnership with the Southern Conference over four days on a historically slower weekend in Asheville,” Christopher Corl, General Manager of Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville said. “This event was brought to Asheville as a result of the hard work and commitments from our strategic community partners, local businesses, and volleyball community.”

“We look forward to bringing high-level college volleyball to the area and we're confident that the partners and volunteers who support the Ingles SoCon Basketball Championships will replicate that incredible experience for the conference's volleyball student-athletes and coaches,” Cross said. “It's All Here in The Southern Conference, and Asheville, and we can't wait until November!"

Tickets for the championship tournament are on sale now. Daily general admission and Courtside Lounge passes are available for $15 and $35, respectively. The Courtside Lounge packages include access to courtside seating and the Courtside Lounge with light complimentary fare from Ingles. Get your tickets and learn more at https://soconsports.com/wvb today. Hotels for the tournament can be found at https://www.exploreasheville.com/places-to-stay/.

ABOUT THE SOUTHERN CONFERENCE

ABOUT ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE REGIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION

ABOUT HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CENTER - ASHEVILLE (HCCA)

ABOUT EXPLORE ASHEVILLE AND THE BUNCOMBE COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

-www.SoConSports.com-