Community Center Introduces the Paddle Sport to Locals

Pickleball is coming to Weaverville, as the town hosted an orientation session at the Community Center to introduce around 50 attendees to the game, its rules, and the schedule for the new pickleball courts at the facility, with clinics planned on a monthly basis from March to October.

Swift Lady Falcons Lead League in Basketball

West Henderson Lady Falcons are the cream of the Henderson County crop in girls basketball, and also lead their league so far in 2023-24.

‘M’ Turns ‘W’ Upside Down to Win CFB Crown

Witnessing in person my alma mater win a college football title game for the second time in 27 seasons is a thrilling start to the new year.

Covering Many Sports Celebrities, Pro Teams

Handling an apparent mind game from the most famous athlete of all is among highlights in a 35.5-year career.

Shuler to Pickens, Manuel: 35 Years of Local Sports Coverage

Scaling down my local sports writing as I mostly retire in 2024 will be quite difficult, as I’ve enjoyed it so much for the past 35.5 years.

Shrine Bowlers Manuel, Guest, Adams Shine

The 87th Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas last Saturday had five participants from western North Carolina, as the mountains continued its part in the prestigious all-star classic at the new (2019) Spartanburg High School.

Tennis Lady Cats Five-peat, Pacing Fall Squads

Two state titles and a few deep playoff drives highlight local high school teams, while WNC’s football rushing leader has an impressive individual feat.

West Reigns as WNC’s All-Around Athletic Best in 3A

West Henderson rates as the most prolific 3A school in the mountains and third statewide in 2022-23 in terms of its various teams advancing far in state playoffs, while Owen was seventh best among all 2A schools.

ACR Alum Rico Dowdle Scores TD on Thanksgiving

Former A.C. Reynolds rushing superstar Rico Dowdle is emerging on “America’s Team,” the Dallas Cowboys, while Asheville’s Eku Leota now plays for the home state Charlotte Panthers.

Blues Repeat as State Champs; Falcons Bow Out

West Henderson’s best-ever football season ended with a loss at Hickory in round four on Friday, but there is a local state gridiron champion in the Asheville School Blues.