UNC Asheville Athletics is thrilled to announce a significant expansion of its partnership with First Bank, elevating the esteemed financial institution to the position of Presenting Partner of UNC Asheville Women’s Athletics. This enhanced collaboration builds upon years of strong foundational support from First Bank, and will strategically focus on amplifying community engagement and fostering the comprehensive development of student-athletes.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Rusty Edwards and the entire First Bank team for their unwavering commitment to Bulldog Athletics and, in particular, their amplified support for women’s sports,” stated Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone. “First Bank has consistently demonstrated forward-thinking leadership in championing women’s athletics, and this partnership further solidifies their pivotal role in this vital area.”
First Bank’s deepened commitment will see them continue as the title sponsor for signature events such as “Our Turn to Play” and “Bulldog SportsFest,” reinforcing their dedication to the broader athletic program. Crucially, this partnership will empower First Bank to cultivate and expand support specifically for women’s athletics initiatives at UNC Asheville. A key component of this enhanced collaboration involves First Bank actively spotlighting the achievements and successes of women’s sports teams within the university. This will be achieved through the creation of engaging, in-depth social media content and dynamic in-venue activations designed to elevate the profile of female athletes and their accomplishments. In a remarkable gesture of community support, Partners First Bank will also be purchasing all tickets for home women’s volleyball matches, ensuring free admission for all members of the general public, further enhancing accessibility and fan engagement.
Rusty Edwards, Asheville Region Executive for First Bank, expressed enthusiasm for the continued partnership, stating, “First Bank is deeply invested in supporting our hometown team. These exceptional athletes contribute immeasurably to our community, providing not only thrilling entertainment but also serving as sources of inspiration and pride. These young women represent the future of our community, and Partners First Bank is incredibly excited to play a role in their growth and success. Go Bulldogs!”
Beyond the excitement on the field and court, a critical dimension of this partnership is the integration of financial literacy programming. Bulldog student-athletes will gain invaluable firsthand knowledge and practical skills through direct engagement with First Bank employees and ambassadors. These sessions will equip student-athletes with the essential tools for sound financial management, covering key areas such as saving strategies, investment principles, effective budgeting, responsible credit and student loan management, and strategic financial goal setting. This proactive approach aims to empower student-athletes with the financial acumen necessary for long-term success and security beyond their athletic careers.
About Partners First Bank
Partners First Bank, a subsidiary of First Bancorp, operates as a state-chartered community bank headquartered in Southern Pines, North Carolina. With total assets approximating $12.4 billion, First Bank maintains a robust network of 118 branches across North Carolina and South Carolina. Since its inception in 1935, Partners First Bank has distinguished itself by delivering customized banking solutions, combining cutting-edge financial products with readily accessible local expertise and advanced technology to effectively serve the diverse needs of individuals and businesses. First Bancorp’s common stock is publicly traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the ticker symbol “FBNC.” For comprehensive information, please visit the official Partners First Bank website at www.LocalFirstBank.com. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.
About UNC Asheville
UNC Asheville holds the esteemed designation of North Carolina’s public liberal arts and sciences university and is a distinguished member of the University of North Carolina System. UNC Asheville provides a relationship-centered educational experience designed to cultivate leadership and service, emphasizing critical thinking, articulate communication, applied research, community involvement, open inquiry, and undergraduate and graduate programs that address the most pressing challenges of our era. Through small class sizes, close faculty collaboration, and impactful experiential learning opportunities, UNC Asheville is dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders and engaged citizens poised to contribute to North Carolina and the nation.
Bulldog Athletics proudly supports 16 NCAA Division I sports teams. Having secured over 30 Big South Conference Championships since transitioning to Division I, Asheville student-athletes have garnered All-American recognition and consistently excel in academics and community service, earning numerous academic accolades and collectively contributing thousands of hours of community engagement.
For further information about UNC Asheville, please visit www.unca.edu and www.uncabulldogs.com.
