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24th Annual T.C. Roberson Golf Classic: More Than a Day on the Course

The T.C. Roberson 24th Annual Golf Classic returns on Friday, May 1st at 12:30 PM at Chestnut Mountain Golf Club, bringing the community together for a day that makes a lasting impact.

This event is more than an annual tournament. It is a direct investment in the student-athletes and programs that make up T.C. Roberson High School’s athletic department.

Now in its 24th year, this event plays a vital role in supporting Roberson athletics. Proceeds help provide essential resources like equipment, training tools, and facility improvements, ensuring athletes have what they need to succeed.

The impact goes beyond resources. Funds from the Golf Classic also create opportunities for teams to travel, compete at higher levels, and gain valuable experience that shapes both their athletic and personal growth.

At its core, Roberson athletics is about more than competition. It is about building leadership, discipline, and teamwork. The Golf Classic helps create an environment where student-athletes can grow into confident leaders both on and off the field.

The event also brings the community together. With support from families, alumni, and local businesses, the Golf Classic strengthens the connection between athletics, academics, and community pride.

More than a tournament, it is a tradition that continues to support student-athletes while strengthening the broader sports community across Western North Carolina.

The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission is proud to support and sponsor this impactful community event as part of our ongoing commitment to uplifting sports and student-athletes throughout the region.

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Featured Event Highlight Recap: Ingles Smoky Mountain Grapple

Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission coordinated and supported another successful year of the Ingles Smoky Mountain Grapple, a high‑energy wrestling event that brought close to 900 athletes to the Asheville area and generated overnight visitation for local lodging and hospitality partners.

Event highlights included:

  • 1,615 total matches

  • Girls Division: 224 wrestlers

  • JV Division: 269 wrestlers

  • Varsity Teams: 42

  • Varsity Wrestlers: 382

  • Five states represented: North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee

Grapple showcased Asheville’s ability to host niche and emerging sports while diversifying the region’s sports tourism portfolio. Building on this success, ABRSC is excited to welcome the Gladiator/Gladiatrix Series in June, with additional details to be announced on ABRSC’s website https://ashevillesportscommission.com

A HUGE SHOUTOUT TO ALL OF OUR PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS AND WRESTLERS WHO COMPETED AND SAW SUCCESS AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING THIS 2025-2026 SEASON! WINNING TEAMS AND PARTICIPANTS LISTED BELOW ALSO COMPETED IN THE 2025 GRAPPLE!

Wrestling Dual Team State Champions

1A Champion: Robbinsville High School

4A Champion: Uwharrie Charter Academy

Individual State Champions

  • 1A/2A Men’s Division

Men’s Champion:Robbinsville

Most Outstanding Wrestler:Adair Panama (Robbinsville)

113 Champion: Sullivan Cunningham (Swain County), 4th place at Grapple

120 Champion: Adair Panama (Robbinsville), 1st place at Grapple

138 Champion: Loxston Hooper (Robbinsville), 1st place at Grapple

144 Champion: Devin Hall (Robbinsville)

  • 3A Men’s Division

150 Champion: Alexander May (Hendersonville)

157 Champion: Joaquin Leunda Freeman (Charles D Owen), 2nd place at Grapple

  • 4A Men’s Division

Men’s Champion:  Pisgah

Most Outstanding Wrestling: Lorenzo Alston (Uwharrie)

126 Champion: Kail Burnette (Pisgah), 3rd place at Grapple

150 Champion: Micah Howard (Tuscola), 1st place at Grapple, John Clarke Award Winner

175 Champion: Lorenzo Alston (Uwharrie)

190 Champion: Jacob Hudgin (RS-Central), 1st place at Grapple

215 Champion: Landon Pope (Pisgah), 1st place at Grapple

  • 5A Men’s Division

Men’s Champion: Enka

106 Champion: Maddox Crooke (Enka)

113 Champion: Jacobie Morrison (Enka), 1st place at Grapple

  • 8A Men’s Division

126 Champion: Carter Furman (Northwest Guilford), 1st place at Grapple

138 Champion: Connor Reece (Northwest Guilford), 1st place at Grapple

150 Champion: Jack Gibson (Northwest Guilford)

157 Champion: Connor Reed (Leesville Road), 3 place at Grapple

215 Champion: Gavin Lopez (Green Hope)

  • 1A-4A Women’s Division

Most Outstanding Wrestler: Riley White (Uwharrie)

132 Champion: Riley White (Uwharrie), 1st place at Grapple

145 Champion: Nola Walker (Newton-Conover), 3rd place at Grapple

185 Champion: Savada Kitchen (Brevard), 1st place at Grapple

235 Champion: Kimberly Talton (Madison), 1st place at Grapple

  • 6A Women’s Division

114 Champion: Sydney Mark (Asheville/SILSA), 1st place at Grapple

  • 8A Division

120 Champion: Lisa-Jean Foley (Millbrook), 4th place at Grapple

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64th MAAC WNC Sports Awards Banquet Set for May 3 at The Omni Grove Park Inn

ASHEVILLE – The 64th Western North Carolina Sports Awards Banquet presented by Ingles will be held on Sunday, May 3 at the Omni Grove Park Inn.

The banquet, first held in 1959 and conducted by the Mountain Amateur Athletic Club, honors the area’s top high school athletes and teams with 24 awards, 20 scholarships, the Riley Howell Courage Award, and a Special Olympics Scholarship

More than 100 of WNC’s top student athletes are invited to the banquet, which begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Omni Grove Park Inn’s Grand Ballroom.

Tickets are available to the public and can be purchased for $65/person below!

Finalists for the awards and scholarships recipients were selected from nominations from WNC coaches and athletic directors, who received their nomination forms in March. 

- For more information, contact Martha Gates at marthagates18@gmail.com -

Click the Button Below to see the list of finalists for each award that will be presented on May 3 and to purchase your tickets:


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Featured Event Highlight: 2026 Ingles Southern Conference Basketball Tournament

The Southern Conference Basketball Championships once again delivered an electric week of competition in Asheville, bringing together top collegiate programs and passionate fan bases from across the region. Held at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville, the tournament combined high-stakes basketball with a vibrant downtown atmosphere, reinforcing its place as one of the city’s premier annual sporting events. From thrilling matchups to community traditions like the Downtown Dribble, the championship continues to showcase Asheville as a trusted and energetic host for major collegiate events.

Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission provided full event facilitation, with destination and operational support for the Southern Conference (SoCon) Basketball Tournament, hosted at Harrah’s Cherokee Center. Coordination with venue partners and key stakeholders ensured a seamless experience for participants, staff, and visitors throughout tournament week.

The tournament relied on more than 150 volunteers, with special recognition given to F.I.R.S.T and the ABRSC core volunteer team. Championship night brought over 6,000 fans into the arena, delivering a high‑energy finale in downtown Asheville.

The robust weeklong of community engagement festivities continues to grow with Education Days, Downtown Dribble, which welcomed 950 registered participants, and Hometown Heroes. The event featured appearances by UNC Greensboro and Furman University cheer and dance teams, the Greensboro band and mascot, and interactive booths hosted by the City of Asheville and First Tee of WNC.

This successful collaboration strengthened ABRSC’s relationship with Southern Conference partners and supported future hosting opportunities, culminating in a ten‑year extension that reinforces Asheville’s long‑term role as a trusted SoCon destination.

Congratulations to the Women’s Samford Bulldogs and the Men’s Furman Paladins for being the 2026 SoCon Basketball Champions!

“The Southern Conference has a long history with the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission that has helped us to build one of the most successful conference college basketball tournaments in collegiate sports. From helping to drive sponsorships, ticket sales, community engagement and event coordination, it’s been a true partnership in every sense of the word. Having just signed a new 10-year agreement to keep our conference basketball tournament in Asheville, we are excited to get to continue working with the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission into the foreseeable future.”

- Geoff Cabe, Senior Associate Commissioner, The Southern Conference

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Featured Event Friday: Nike EYBL Scholastic Christ School Classic

The Nike EYBL Scholastic Christ School Classic once again brought elite high school basketball to Western North Carolina, showcasing some of the nation’s top talent in a highly competitive environment. Hosted at Christ School, the event delivered a high-level experience for athletes, coaches, and fans while reinforcing the region’s growing reputation as a destination for premier scholastic sporting events. With nationally ranked programs, fast-paced matchups, and a strong community presence, the Classic continues to elevate the visibility of Asheville and Buncombe County on the national basketball stage.

The  Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission in partnership with Nike EYBL Scholastic & Christ School, hosted the Christ School Classic, at Christ School in Arden, NC. This partnership brought a nationally recognized elite high school basketball event to Western North Carolina. As the first‑ever Nike EYBL Scholastic tournament hosted by Christ School, the event significantly elevated the region’s visibility within elite prep basketball and positioned Asheville as a capable host for top‑tier national competitions.

The tournament welcomed five nationally prominent programs—Christ School, Montverde Academy, Brewster Academy, The St. James, and La Lumiere School—drawing athletes, coaching staffs, families, media, and spectators from outside the region. This influx of out‑of‑market visitors contributed to overnight stays and visitor spending at local hotels, restaurants, and businesses during a winter weekend.

The three‑day event was supported by a number of community volunteers, including Christ School staff and students, ABRSC core volunteers, and the Harrah’s Cherokee Center, who assisted with entry operations. Attendance brought out over 850 fans, creating an energetic atmosphere and demonstrating strong collaboration between educational institutions, sports organizations, and destination partners. The successful execution strengthened relationships with national sports stakeholders and showcased the community’s ability to host future Nike EYBL Scholastic and similar elite youth sporting events. 

The success of the Christ School Classic is mostly due to the tremendous efforts of the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission. Repeatedly we received glowing remarks of how well “our tournament” was organized. This was among many veteran schools of the EYBL who have been attending and hosting these tournaments for many years. We consistently gave credit to the ABRSC commission. The Christ School Classic would not have been a success without their involvement! They led the logistical planning of the tournament from the very beginning. They thought of and handled all aspects:  air travel, lodging, ground transportation, food, hospitality room, media, tickets, t-shirt sales, media coverage, website design, etc…  Additionally, they were great and would recommend to anyone to use their expertise.”

- Duncan Parham, A.D., Strength Coach, Science Teacher Christ School

Game 5 Recap Video: (1) Montverde VS Christ School

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Asheville Sports Commission Quarter Wrap up!

Throughout the first quarter of 2026, the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission (ABRSC) supported a diverse mix of local, regional, and national sporting events across multiple venues. ABRSC continues to work closely with event rights holders, venue partners, and municipal stakeholders, ABRSC ensured smooth operations and positive experiences for athletes, spectators, volunteers, and organizers. The ABRSC team led the efforts and provided community engagement, support, volunteer opportunities, and expertise hands on boots on the ground teamwork, reinforcing Asheville’s reputation as a welcoming and well-prepared sports destination. 

Across Q1 events, roughly 200 volunteer opportunities were supported through hands‑on, boots‑on‑the‑ground teamwork. These efforts reinforced Asheville’s reputation as a welcoming and well‑prepared sports destination while generating increased overnight visitation and room nights for TDI partners. Local hotels, restaurants, and businesses benefited from visitor spending during an important off‑season period, further elevating Asheville’s profile as a competitive and flexible host community.

Featured Events Include:

  • 2025 Ingles Smoky Mountain Grapple (Dec. 19-20, 2025): One of the most premier high school wrestling tournaments in the southeast. This tournament showcased over 1,000 total matches over three divisions: Women’s, Junior Varsity, and Varsity.

  • 2026 Gala Gymnastics (Jan. 9-11, 2026): Gala Gymnastics brought a youth‑focused, sold‑out gymnastics event to Asheville, welcoming athletes, families, and spectators from across the region. With over 1,600 gymnasts in attendance, the event generated multi‑day stays and reinforced Asheville’s appeal as a premier destination for youth and amateur sports competitions.

  • 2026 Nike EYBL Scholastic: Christ School Classic (Feb. 20-22): A nationally recognized elite high school basketball series, hosted at Asheville’s own, Christ School. three of the 5 teams participating were nationally ranked top 10 in the country.

  • 2026 Ingles Southern Conference Basketball Tournament (Mar. 5-9, 2026): An Asheville Sports stable. Coming off the signing of a 10 year extension, The Southern Conference Basketball tournament highlighted fierce competition and community throughout their time back home!

— Keep an eye out for specialized features with more information on our Q1 Events! —

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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:


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:

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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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