Message from Matt: Crossover Season is Here
10/15/2026 7:00:00 PM | General
What an exciting time of year to be a Spartan! As we move deeper into October, our fall sports are hitting their stride, basketball season is right around the corner, and USC Upstate Athletics has plenty to celebrate.
Our women's soccer program has been outstanding under Coach Odell's leadership, racing to a 9-2-3 overall record and a perfect 5-0 mark in Big South Conference play. It's been exciting to watch this team compete, and I look forward to seeing what they accomplish as we enter the final stretch of the regular season. On the men's side, our soccer team is battling through conference play with a 2-2 Big South record. Spartan Volleyball is 8-8 on the year and working hard in the gym.
Our cross country programs have also given us plenty to cheer about! Both the men's and women's teams swept the team titles at the Brevard XC Classic, putting together impressive performances at the Brevard AirStrip earlier this fall.
Of course, October also means crossover season is officially upon us! As our fall teams continue competing, our winter sports are preparing to take center stage. I want to thank our coaches, athletic trainers, operations staff, communications team, and everyone working behind the scenes. This time of year demands long hours, flexibility and teamwork. Much of that work happens out of the spotlight, but it does not go unnoticed or unappreciated.
I also want to remind everyone that the 11th Annual Josh Lee Memorial 5K has been moved to October 24. This event holds a special place in the hearts of our Spartan family as we honor the life and legacy of former cross-country student-athletes. More importantly, proceeds support the Josh Lee Memorial Scholarship, helping create opportunities for future Spartan student-athletes while keeping Josh's memory alive.
Speaking of what's ahead, basketball season is almost here! Both our men's and women's basketball programs have been hard at work preparing for the upcoming season, and I cannot wait for more fun-filled nights at the Hodge Center. If you joined us for Morgan Square Madness, you already got a sneak peek at our student-athletes and the energy surrounding both programs. What a fantastic event and a great opportunity to connect with our Spartanburg community in such a wonderful setting! Events like these remind us that USC Upstate Athletics is about much more than competition. It is about bringing people together and creating connections throughout our Upstate community.
Finally, I want to give a special shoutout to CJ Rich from our men's basketball program, who was selected to represent the Big South Conference in discussions surrounding the Protect College Sports Act in Washington, D.C. Having one of our student-athletes selected to join conversations about the future of college athletics is something we should all celebrate. As the landscape of college sports continues to evolve, student-athletes need a seat at the table. CJ is helping ensure their voices are heard, and we are proud of him for representing USC Upstate and the Big South Conference.
We have so much to look forward to in the coming weeks, so I encourage you to get out, support our Spartans and be part of the excitement. Whether it's on the pitch, along the cross-country course or soon inside the Hodge, your support makes a difference.
-Matt
