This Week in Athletics: Panthers Set for Battle of the Burg, Cross Country Opens Season at Converse Kickoff
Terica Peay
Orangeburg, S.C. — Claflin University Athletics turns its attention to another busy week as the Lady Panthers prepare for a home-and-home Battle of the Burg against South Carolina State, while the men's and women's cross-country teams officially open their 2026 seasons in Spartanburg.
Claflin enters the week after finishing 2-2 at the CBU Patriot Day Classic in Memphis, Tennessee, last weekend.
Several Lady Panthers made significant contributions throughout the weekend.
Nadia Embry finished with 67 assists, while freshman
Joi Tinsley added 56 assists and nine service aces.
Abigail Watts recorded 51 digs, providing a steady presence defensively, while
Aryanna Connell delivered a team-high 12 kills against LeMoyne-Owen. The Lady Panthers also received strong offensive and defensive efforts from
Zaniya Harris,
Monica Burns and other members of the roster throughout the tournament.
The weekend moved Claflin to 5-4 overall heading into this week's Battle of the Burg.
The week begins with volleyball as the Lady Panthers face South Carolina State in back-to-back matches on Sept. 15 and 16. Claflin will travel to South Carolina State for Tuesday's opening match before returning home Wednesday for the second meeting. Both matches are scheduled for 6 p.m.
The Battle of the Burg provides another opportunity for the Lady Panthers to build on a competitive opening stretch to the 2026 season.
Giving Back Through Volleyball
The two-match series will also provide an opportunity for fans to support a meaningful community initiative. Fans are encouraged to bring diapers and wipes as part of a joint donation effort supporting expecting parents and families in need.
Donations can be dropped off with Athletics at the Jonas T. Kennedy Health & Wellness Center. The donation drive has been extended through noon Sept. 16.
Cross Country Opens 2026 Campaign
The week's athletics schedule closes in Spartanburg, where Claflin's men's and women's cross country teams will begin their 2026 campaigns at the Converse Kickoff, hosted by Converse University.
The men's race is scheduled for 9 a.m., with the women's race following at 9:45 a.m.
The meet marks the first opportunity for both Panther squads to compete this season as they begin what they hope will be a successful 2026 campaign.
With volleyball rivalry action, community engagement, and the start of cross country, Claflin Athletics is set for another week filled with competition, Panther pride, and opportunities to represent the university.
Stay Connected
For complete coverage of Claflin Athletics, follow us on social media at @claflin_athletics (Instagram) or Claflin University-Athletics (Facebook), or visit the official home of the Panthers at www.athletics.claflins.edu.
About Claflin University Athletics
Claflin University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II institution that sponsors 13 intercollegiate sports. The university's athletic program includes volleyball; women's flag football; men's and women's cross country; men's and women's basketball; softball; men's and women's indoor and outdoor track and field; and baseball. Claflin's teams compete primarily in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), while the baseball program competes in the Peach Belt Conference.
