Despite the many changes to the 2020 fall sports season, Chapman’s teams are excelling on the field, court, green and course. 

The Lady Panthers tennis team has remained undefeated with an 8-0 record and big wins over Clinton and Spartanburg. They hope to win their region for the third consecutive year and make a third run to the 3A state finals. 

“My team has been successful this season simply because we believe in ourselves and each other,” junior Elizabeth Williams said. “We all support each other and give each other confidence so that we can be the best versions of ourselves.”

Williams is extremely proud of her team’s success thus far, but especially within the region.

“I am the most proud of how my team performed against Clinton this season, the team we beat to win Upper State last year,” Williams said. “We were tied at 3-3, and (number one seed) Westlyn (Morris) and I needed to win number one doubles in order to win the match. Even though we had both just finished our singles matches, we came on the court ready to play doubles, and we won in a 10-point tiebreaker.”

Additionally, the girls golf team has remained undefeated with wins against Blue Ridge, Greer Middle College, and Landrum.

“I’m most proud of our team for supporting each other and always trying to help each other out,” said sophomore Olivia Ireland. “We have stayed positive even when we don’t do our best.”

Both Chapman boys and girls cross country teams have done well, placing in the top five at the Clinton High School Open Meet, the top 10 at the SCA Invitational, and the top 20 at the Lakelands Invitational. Junior Emma Whitaker, who placed second at the 3A state meet last year, placed 5th individually at the SCA invitational, which included 21 different schools.

“Our team goals include progressing and getting faster at each meet and growing closer as a team,” Whitaker said. “During this season, I want to qualify for state and try for an all-state placement. I also want to progress each race and leave no regrets.”

Lady Panthers varsity volleyball is currently second in their region, with 3-0 wins over everyone except Woodruff. For sophomore Clara Gramling, trust is key to victory.

“Every time we step foot onto the court, we have to trust that everyone will do their job and play the game we know how to play,” Gramling said. “The whole athletics department has done an amazing job at making sure we can play while also being safe.”

Last but certainly not least, football season is officially underway, and the Chapman football team has not disappointed with region wins against Woodruff and Emerald. Obviously, the 2020 season looks different in terms of various guidelines and restrictions, but for junior Lance Holden, that doesn’t matter

“I honestly think that our season score-wise is going to be like last season, maybe not with the amount of points, but just with the passion and will,” Holden said. “I think the most important thing for our team is just to remember that we can really become the best team here and never become complacent.”