Column: Sports unite Carolina, UNC athletics should too

June 17, 2026 - 01:21

At a time when sports across the world are creating more unity than division, the deletion of a post meant to stimulate equality is a step in the wrong direction for UNC athletics. The post in question, which encouraged fans to support both the Tar Heels and the Gamecocks in the name of shared values, was taken down quickly after backlash. But the message it carried remains relevant: college sports in this state are stronger when they acknowledge common ground, not just rivalry.

The tension between the University of North Carolina and the University of South Carolina is real, especially on the football field and basketball court. But that rivalry should not prevent athletic departments from standing together on issues that matter beyond the scoreboard. When a post about equality is removed because it might upset fans, it sends a signal that winning and brand loyalty matter more than principle.

Other sports programs across the country have shown that competition and cooperation can coexist. They hold joint charity events, share best practices for athlete mental health, and speak out together on social issues. There is no reason UNC and Carolina cannot do the same. The rivalry will survive a few moments of unity. In fact, it might even become healthier.

If the goal is to build a better athletic culture in the Carolinas, then deleting a post about equality is the wrong play. The right move is to keep the conversation going, even when it makes some people uncomfortable.