Sports

In spectacular home opener, Panthers dominate Robbinsville

Panthers player running with football in home opener game at night.

August 30, 2026

It was the first time the Panthers played a non-scrimmage game on their home field since 2024, and they sent a message to Robbinsville and the rest of the conference – the new stadium is beautiful and the team is here to play.

Green and white helicopter on football field with spectators in background. — The Mission Health MAMA helicopter landed on the football field to deliver the game ball for the dramatic opening of the Panther’s new home stadium.

The night started with flair as the game ball was delivered to State Senator Kevin Corbin by the Mission Health helicopter called MAMA (Mountain Area Medical Airlift). Corbin is credited with securing $62 million from the state to build a new school and athletic complex. Without that funding, the new facilities would not have happened.

Feeling like big-time college football, MAMA landed on the 50-yard line, directly on the paw of the Panther. After the dramatic landing, MAMA crew member Steve Schlesinger exited the helicopter and walked the game ball to a waiting Corbin (pictured above).

Now 2-0, Franklin’s defense showed that it is as stout as the offense is prolific. The 31-7 win against the Black Knights was never close (much like 42-7 win at Murphy last week).

Aerial view of roof renovation showing before and after comparison.

For the defense, allowing only 14 points in two games shows they certainly are capable of smothering opponents.

One telltale highlight for the Panther D came at the end of the third quarter. As Robbinsville tried to gain a little momentum, the Black Knights quarterback was forced to run for his life, narrowly escaping a safety and leading to a punt. That’s essentially what defined the night for the Knights offense.

High school football players in red and white uniforms during game. — The Panthers high scoring affair was due in no small part to the play of the offensive line. Here Brayden McConnell works to keep his quarterback unhurried.

Also like last week’s game, the offense had little trouble scoring points. The Panthers lit up the scoreboard in front of a standing-room-only home crowd hungering for home cooking at the new stadium.

Young football players in red and white uniforms during a game. — The Panthers overpowered the Black Knights in all phases of the game. Here Paxton Sutton barrels through the defense.

For Robbinsville, their losing streak was extended to 0-3.

Event flyer for Furry Frights fundraiser supporting animal rescue with music and silent auction.

Now the 2-0 Panthers prepare for another home game, this time against the 0-2 Swain County Maroon Devils on Friday, Sept. 4, at 7:30 p.m. This will be the team’s last non-conference warm-up. Conference play begins in East Flat Rock where Franklin will take on the East Henderson Eagles on Sept. 11.

Football player tackled during a game on a brightly lit field. — Antonio Hernandez busts through for the score.

Pictured top: Anderson Terrell keeps it in for a touchdown. All photos provided by Ronnie Vanhook.