SALISBURY— The Rowan Young Professionals (RYP), a program of the Rowan Chamber of Commerce, announced the launch of two new initiatives, YP Athletics and YP After Dark.

These programs are designed to offer even more opportunities for young professionals living and working in Rowan County to connect, network and thrive.

YP Athletics: Where team spirit meets community

In response to growing interest in sports-related activities, the Rowan Young Professionals have established a new committee dedicated to overseeing this type of programming. YP Athletics will serve as the hub for young professionals who enjoy team sports and seek to connect with others through athletic pursuits.

With a history of participation in the Rowan Chamber’s annual Dragon Boat Festival and the City of Salisbury Parks and Recreation Department’s kickball leagues, YP Athletics now aims to expand its offerings. The group plans to host weekly meetups for tennis, golf and other sports, encouraging members to stay active and connected.

“The best things happen organically, and that’s exactly what we’ve seen with YP Athletics,” added Kyler

Eagle, YP events committee chair. “A newcomer who moved here from California reached out in the official Facebook Group, asking if anyone wanted to learn tennis. Before we knew it, young professionals came out of the woodwork. For nearly a month, we’ve been meeting 2-3 times a week to play tennis, weather permitting, at City Lake Park’s courts or on campus at Catawba College. It’s been a fantastic way to get exercise while enjoying each others company.”

This tennis inquiry spurred the Executive Committee of Rowan Young Professionals to approve the formation of a new committee, YP Athletics.

“When I moved here from California for a job in the life sciences industry, I was connected to Rowan Young Professionals through the Rowan EDC’s Concierge Relocation Service, and it’s been a game-changer,” said Syed H. “In college, I was so focused on my education that I had to put many of my personal interests on the back burner. I played cricket in high school, and learning tennis has always been a goal of mine. Through YP Athletics, I’ve been able to make friends and finally learn to play. When I tell my friends back in California how quickly I found community here, they’re amazed — they thought moving to the South would be tough. But the hospitality in Rowan Young Professionals has been exactly the welcome I’d hoped for. I encourage all newcomers to check it out.”

Cornhole tournament fundraiser

In addition to regular meetups, YP Athletics will be hosting a YP Athletics cornhole tournament on Oct. 20 at noon at New Sarum Brewery. The event is open to all members of the community and spectators, with entry fees set at $25 per person or $50 per team. All proceeds will go to support the Rowan Young Professionals program.

Prizes which will be awarded to the first and second place teams, and participants will have the chance to win four tickets to a future Panther’s game, gift cards and swag from local favorites like New Sarum, Cheerwine, the Carolina Panthers, Cheer City Riot and the Roaring Riot. There will be more than $500 worth of merchandise and prizes, plus a 50/50 drawing. 

Attendees can enjoy craft beer from Salisbury’s own hometown brewery while supporting the growing young professionals’ program.

“Starting Rowan County Young Pro Athletics is about more than just the love of sports, it’s about giving young professionals another avenue to connect, grow and thrive together,” said Dillon Brewer, development committee chair and co-captain for kickball and dragon boat. “This initiative provides a space for building relationships, fostering community spirit and pushing beyond personal and professional limits, all while enjoying the camaraderie that sports naturally bring.”

“Joining the Dragon Boat Race was my first connection with Young Professionals, and it’s been an incredible experience ever since,” said Nicky Black, vice-chair of the Young Professionals program. “As the first captain of our inaugural team, I’m thrilled to see our involvement grow. I look forward to more chances to get outside, have fun and strengthen my bonds with the amazing friends I’ve made through YP.”

YP After Dark: Networking with a Twist

Following the success of the popular LIVE After Five summer series, RYP is excited to introduce YP After Dark, a new monthly evening meetup designed for informal networking and fun.

From September to May, YP After Dark will host engaging activities that foster connections outside of the typical workday.

The inaugural event was a bowling night on Sept. 20 followed by a trash cleanup for Rowan Creek Week.

Future activities will include attending various sporting events, exploring attractions like the Whitewater Center in Charlotte, haunted trails, and more.

“It’s been amazing to see the young pros grow with the launch of these new programs,” said Mollie Ruf, YP chair. “Last year, we hosted around 50 events and activities, and this year promises even more. There’s a place for every young professional to thrive in Rowan County through our offerings.”