Belle JohnsonSun, November 30, 2025 at 1:41 AM UTC·1 min readWISE COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) – The stands at Phil Robbins Field were packed as the Union Bears advanced to the next round of playoffs.
Over the past couple of weeks, the team had to overcome the challenge of staff changes following the disappearance of head coach Travis Turner.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAttorney for Turner family releases statement, claims Travis Turner left with firearm
Community members say this day was not about the investigation, but about the team.
”These boys are really fighting through it,” one community member said. “We’re super proud of them.”
Fans blew horns and popped confetti with each touchdown. Below the stands, crowds gathered at the fenceline of the field.
“It’s good that we can come together as a team and as a community,” another community member said. “I support the bears 100%. I’m from Appalachia. It’s good that we have such a good crowd here tonight.”
Union interim coach and defensive coordinator Jason Edwards said the team has been resilient through the adversity.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“The kids are the key to everything,” Edwards said. “We are blessed with great senior leaders, and they played in a lot of big games. You know, this was goal two of three, the ultimate goal. So, you know, so we’re just, we’re right where we want to be right now.”
After tonight’s win, the Union Bears remain undefeated.
Next week, Union will go up against Glenvar High School (Salem) at Bullitt Park in Big Stone Gap.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
AdvertisementAdvertisement
