Engaging Updates from South Carolina Athletics: A Message from Jeremiah Donati
H2: Greetings, Gamecock Nation!
As we draw closer to the end of another exhilarating academic and athletic year, there is so much that our remarkable student-athletes and dedicated department have achieved. Let’s dive into the latest updates that showcase the incredible spirit of Gamecock Athletics!
H2: Celebrating Our Graduates
Education is a cornerstone of our values, and at South Carolina, we are deeply committed to preparing our student-athletes for success beyond the playing field.
This year, we proudly celebrated our achievements in the classroom, leading the Southeastern Conference with 215 student-athletes named to the SEC Academic Honor Rolls. Last Thursday, I had the honor of presenting our soon-to-be graduates with their rings during the annual Senior Ring Ceremony. This past weekend, 107 Gamecock student-athletes participated in commencement exercises, marking a significant milestone in their lives.
H2: This is Our State
In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, we have claimed the Palmetto Series, sponsored by the SC Education Lottery, for the sixth time in the last seven years, finishing with a 7-4 victory against Clemson. Points were secured in key sports, including football, basketball, and women’s golf.
I can’t wait to channel this momentum into next year’s Series! Gamecock pride is alive and well in Columbia!
H2: Partnering with the Best
We are thrilled to announce a multi-year partnership with Legends, a global leader in premium experiences. Legends will oversee premium seating and support ticket sales and fundraising initiatives for the revitalization of Williams-Brice Stadium. Their impressive track record includes working with over 90% of Power Four university athletics departments, and we are excited to join their prestigious portfolio.
Learn more about our exciting partnership with Legends!
H2: Securing SEC Championships
A hearty congratulations is in order for our women’s golf program, which secured its second SEC title—its first since 2002! This victory adds to a spectacular year in which women’s basketball and equestrian also claimed SEC championships.
In individual achievements, future stars emerged as Sophie Verzyl claimed victory in the 3-meter diving event, and JaMessia Ford defended her SEC Indoor Championship title in the 200-meter sprint. Kudos to Kalen Anderson, our exceptional women’s golf head coach, on earning her fifth SEC Coach of the Year award!
H2: Postseason Glory for Gamecock Teams
The Gamecock spirit shines brightly as we enter the postseason with remarkable performances:
Softball under first-year head coach Ashley Chastain Woodard achieved 39 wins, marking the most wins in a season for a debut head coach in the program’s history. They garnered the No. 8 seed in the NCAA Tournament, an exciting first for our program!
Both men’s and women’s golf teams earned top 4 seeds in their respective NCAA regionals, showcasing versatility and strength. The women’s team recently claimed the NCAA Charlottesville Regional Title, advancing to their fifth consecutive NCAA Championship.
In tennis, our women’s team made its 30th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance, advancing to the second round, while our men’s team progressed to the SEC Championship Match, making it to the NCAA Super Regional for the fifth straight year.
- Our track and field teams are ready to compete in the upcoming SEC Outdoor Championship in Lexington, Kentucky, with the women’s team currently ranked sixth nationally and the men’s at 28th.
H2: NFL and WNBA Draft Highlights
We are proud to witness our Gamecocks stepping into the professional realm.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, five remarkable players—Nick Emmanwori, T.J. Sanders, Demetrius Knight Jr., Kyle Kennard, and Tonka Hemingway—were drafted, while seven more signed free-agent deals.
In women’s basketball, three stars—Te-Hina Paopao, Bree Hall, and Sania Feagin—made their mark, being selected in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
Congratulations to all these student-athletes; we eagerly anticipate their continued success on the professional stage!
H2: Looking Ahead
Big things are on the horizon for Gamecock Athletics! I am excited to keep you informed about our progress and the ever-evolving landscape of college sports. The inspiration I draw from our student-athletes and passionate fan base fuels my commitment to excellence.
Here’s to even more success together!
H3: Forever to Thee!
The future is bright for Gamecock Athletics. Let’s celebrate the achievements and continue to support our teams as they represent the Garnet & Black with pride!
