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UNC Asheville Mudpuppy Triumphs in Ultimate Frisbee After Hurricane

UNC Asheville Mudpuppy ultimate frisbee team in action

News Summary

Despite the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the UNC Asheville ultimate frisbee team, known as the Mudpuppy, demonstrated resilience and teamwork. After navigating a disrupted academic calendar and practice schedules, they found community support and competed fiercely in tournaments, showcasing their spirit and determination. With strong performances and a focus on unity, the Mudpuppy is ready to take on future challenges, embodying the essence of resilience in sports.

UNC Asheville Mudpuppy Overcomes Hurricane Devastation to Thrive in Ultimate Frisbee Season

Asheville, North Carolina, a city known for its stunning scenery and vibrant communities, found itself grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene last September. This was a monster of a storm that not only shook the foundations of homes but also sent shockwaves through the University of North Carolina Asheville. The impact was so severe that the university had to reset its academic calendar, opting for a nearly month-long pause and switching classes to an online format. The storm wreaked havoc, leading to damages estimated at a staggering $75 billion across several states, with our beloved Carolinas taking some of the worst hits.

The Mudpuppy’s Tale of Resilience

Among the many groups affected by this turbulent time, the ultimate frisbee team, affectionately known as the Mudpuppy, faced a real test of their mettle. Named after the Necturus maculosus, a small grey-brown spotted salamander that thrives in North Carolina, the team found themselves needing to adapt to unforeseen challenges that seemed a lot like the chaos caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Junior Jackson “J.C.” Carawan and senior Jackson Stanley, who lead the Mudpuppy as captains, described the sudden shattering of their normal routine. This isn’t just a club—it’s a family. Yet when the hurricane hit, it forced everyone to reassess and regroup. Friends were separated, practice times disrupted, and the chance to play the sport they love was under serious threat.

Community Support and Rebuilding

What happened next was nothing short of heartwarming. Other colleges rallied around the Mudpuppy, echoing the spirit of camaraderie and support typical of the ultimate frisbee community. Teams like Wake Forest and UNC’s Darkside lent a helping hand, allowing Mudpuppy players to practice with them. This act wasn’t just about throwing a disc but was also about nurturing friendships and rebuilding a collective spirit. The Mudpuppy team also found solace in participating in fall tournaments, including the Bare Bones event at UNC Charlotte. It was during these games that players began to feel a rush of relief and excitement as they hit the field together.

Fierce Competition and Strong Performances

With their spirits buoyed, the Mudpuppy faced tough competition head-on. Ranked as the 16th seed, they displayed remarkable grit during the River City Showdown, finishing second overall, with just two losses to the formidable #2 ranked team, Franciscan Fatal. The players fought fiercely, showing that even in the face of adversity, they could still hold their own against some of the toughest teams in the Easterns D-III Division.

While the Mudpuppy didn’t take home the ultimate prize, their season was marked with moments of brilliance and competitive spirit that sent a clear message: they’re not just here to participate; they’re here to win. With players like Brandon Bass stepping into the spotlight and rookie Raekwon Razor impressing everyone with his scoring prowess, there’s no denying that the future looks bright for the team.

A Family on the Field

Even through the ups and downs, the leadership of the Mudpuppy has focused on unity, emphasizing that playing ultimate frisbee is not just about winning but also about the love for the game. In the face of challenges, they’ve rallied together, creating a sense of family that transcends the sport itself. As they continue their season, you can be sure their spirit remains steadfast, ready to take on whatever comes next, because resilience is at the heart of the Mudpuppy.