Asheville Faces the Storm’s Wrath: Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath
Asheville, North Carolina, a city known for its stunning mountain views and vibrant arts scene, has recently endured a harsh reality as Hurricane Helene slashed through the Southeast. The region was left grappling with significant flooding and destruction, leading to a wave of community resilience in the face of adversity. The winds and rain hit hard, making history as one of the worst storms this area has faced since “The Great Flood” of 1916.
Janet Cone: A Leader in Troubling Times
Janet Cone, the athletic director at UNC Asheville for the past 21 years, describes her experience during the storm. Cone, who consciously chose to build her home in an easy-access area, believed she could always make it to work, even during winter’s wrath. However, Hurricane Helene posed an unexpected challenge that disrupted her plans. “In the 20-something years I’ve been here,” she recalls, “I don’t think I’ve ever not been able to get to work until that Friday.”
While Cone’s immediate neighborhood suffered mainly debris from fallen trees, the main roads were impassable, leaving her with no choice but to turn back home. Like many others, she initially had no idea of the storm’s severity. The power was out, and the TV was useless, but she managed to find a battery-operated radio to catch snippets of news. It wasn’t until Sunday that she received a message from a colleague in Charlotte offering help.
Mobilizing Support for Student-Athletes
Cone’s first priority was the safety of her student-athletes. She rapidly devised a plan to evacuate and relocate them. While it was impossible to predict the storm’s impact, Cone soon found out the athletic building had sustained serious flooding, with water levels reaching between eight and twelve feet!
Thanks to support from nearby universities and even the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, more than 140 student-athletes from UNC Asheville found refuge. The swim team headed to Gardner-Webb University, track athletes moved to Emory & Henry in Virginia, and the basketball and soccer teams settled into hotels and dorms near UNC Charlotte. This partnership allowed the Bulldogs to continue their training, albeit far from home.
A Community Comes Together
Chris Thomasson, executive associate athletic director for the Charlotte 49ers, reflected on the community’s spirit, saying, “This is what athletics is all about.” He emphasized the importance of nurturing young people and creating a supportive environment amidst crisis. The Asheville athletes quickly adjusted to their new surroundings, utilizing the 49ers’ facilities for strength training, practice, and meals.
The Charlotte Hornets also opened their doors to the Bulldogs, allowing them to practice in the state-of-the-art Spectrum Center. This collaboration is a shining example of unity during hardship, as sports teams band together to provide support and continuity for the students. “We’re proud to return the favor and host them at our home, especially during this time of need,” said a Hornets spokesperson.
The Human Side of the Storm
Coaches and players felt the storm’s impact not only on their schedules but also on their everyday lives. Coach Mike Morrell of the men’s basketball team canceled practice on the Friday leading up to the storm, sensing trouble ahead. After witnessing rapidly rising waters at a local bridge, he knew he needed to act. “We had to get the guys out of town, man,” Morrell said. With the loss of power and water, the urgency increased.
By Monday, all players were safely in Charlotte, understanding the gravity of the situation while expressing gratitude for the support received. Morrell wisely stated, “There is no playbook for this,” reminding us of the importance of compassion and community in tough times.
A Hopeful Future
While the damage from Hurricane Helene is undeniably severe, community connections and support systems remain strong. Cone expresses optimism, stating, “It’s horrible up there, but it’s getting better each day.” With time, galvanization, and focused efforts, the Asheville community will reclaim its vibrancy. Even in adversity, the spirit of collaboration and support shines through, offering hope and inspiration to a battered but unbroken city.
