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The Franklin Panthers varsity football team escaped with a narrow victory last Friday night, taking down the neighboring Maroon Devils of Swain County 14-6. Jacob Young scored the Panthers only two touchdowns of the game in what was a physically grinding contest between the two rivals. The win gives the Panthers their sixth straight victory over the 1A powerhouse, in a series historically dominated by Swain.

“Swain was a good challenge for us, on both sides of the ball. They play as hard as anyone, so we were not surprised about their ability to hang around,” said Panthers Head Coach Josh Brooks. “We just knew we had to keep playing, and it was a good struggle at the line of scrimmage. But eventually we we were able to take control.”

The Panthers are set to begin conference play against Brevard this Friday night. Although Brevard has struggled this year, the Panthers are preparing for a battle. “I don’t care who we play, we are going to get ready to compete and try to win every game,” said Coach Josh Brooks.

Conference rival Pisgah was predicted to finish first in the WNC Athletic Conference, according to the WNCAC preseason coaches poll. Franklin was predicted to finish third, but the Panthers have already shown that they are capable of making a conference title run.

Franklin’s volleyball team is off to an unbelievable start with an 8-1 overall record and going 3-0 in the Western North Carolina Athletic Conference. The Panthers are on track to take the conference championship later this season.

“I am very proud of the way the girls are playing,” said Head FHS Volleyball Coach, Anna Shields. “Several players have stepped up and have had to play several positions, are doing well in everything they do. We are 10 strong right now.”

Franklin’s first loss came after the Aug. 30 match against the Enka Jets, 3-0.