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September 4, 2013

HEAT, tar heels, LIGHTNING can’t stop the Gamecocks The home opener for South Carolina came on the hottest day of the year, but temps in the high 90s and a tough North Carolina squad weren’t able to stop the 6th-ranked Gamecocks from a 27-10 victory.

Photos by Allen Sharpe/ Jenny Dilworth

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Spurs & Feathers

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Georgia game look-ahead...........................................4 “Battle of Carolinas” recap............................................6 Gamecock Club honored at halftime.......................8 Checking in with track & field and cross country coaches...........................................9 Men’s & women’s golf fall previews................ 10-11 Women’s soccer assistant coach profile and checking in with sand volleyball....................12 Catching up with Glenn Snyder..............................13 South Carolina/Georgia depth charts...................14 South Carolina to host All Sports Reunion.......................................................15

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Senior forward helps lead women’s soccer team .................................................19 Inside the Gamecock weight room........................20

Gamecocks in New York.............................................16

A Big Ole Good (Gamecock) Album.......................21

Dinobrite Productions makes Gamecock Mixtape......................................................18

“Inside the Chart” with Andy Demetra.................22 Equestrian team brings championship pedigree.............................................23 Association of Lettermen events............................25 Florence County Chapter raises funds for Athletics in fan’s memory.......................26 Swimming their way to the top..............................28 Nothing could be finer! by Ed Girardeau.............30 Upcoming events: Gamecock Club.......................31

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September 4, 2013

Spurrier, Richt must have seen the same thing in Georgia loss

By Bart Wright Contributing Writer In the Steve Spurrier era, the Georgia game has always been the most significant earlyseason date for every Gamecocks’ season, but the twist this week might be the frame of mind of each coach as they look ahead to Saturday in Athens.

Chances are Spurrier and Georgia Coach Mark Richt were both feeling some anguish about Georgia’s tumultuous evening in Clemson when suspensions, injuries and botched plays contributed to a season-opening loss at a time the Bulldogs needed a little boost of momentum for the Carolina game.

For Richt, it represented an opportunity lost, maybe several of them. He decided to play without his starting safety Josh HarveyClemons after the sophomore was involved in a marijuana incident last spring. HarveyClemons is considered a difference-maker in the Georgia secondary and his absence was surely felt in the defeat.

Losing running back Todd Gurley for a spell in the first half didn’t help the Bulldogs’ cause. Gurley only had 12 attempts in limited duty but he accounted for 154 yards – 12.8 per carry – in helping Georgia control the clock.

Quarterback Aaron Murray struggled after leading the Bulldogs to the Clemson five with a first down late in the third quarter, only to have the drive end up in a turnover and a lost opportunity at a crucial time. Murray is now 3-12 against top-25 opponents.

Spurrier knows the Bulldogs controlled the clock, dominated the game on the ground, gained more yards passing, more yards rushing and only gave it away with penalties and the critical turnover. He no doubt would have preferred to see a Georgia win with the Bulldogs feeling a little giddy about themselves, instead of gnashing their teeth about a game they should have won.

But there are edges Carolina takes into the featured Saturday game, as well.

For one, Spurrier will remind his players that they contributed to an 0-2 start for Georgia two years ago after a 45-42 win in Athens. It’s been done before.

The Gamecocks have edges of their own, starting with Jadeveon Clowney, who a lot of critics assumed was out of shape in the opening night victory last week against North Carolina.

AP photo/Richard Shiro

Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray calls out a play during the second half against Clemson Saturday en route to a 38-35 road loss.

Instead of conditioning, it might well have been a more prosaic issue that slowed Clowney – being a college kid. It has happened in various spots around the country, most notably with Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel who had a raucous offseason of autograph sessions and celebrity visitations that stirred up unnecessary at-

tention. In Arizona, another Heisman candidate, Ka’Deem Carey, was suspended for the opener. Clowney appeared to let the preseason hype get to him. That, and high humidity and the frustration of chasing plays designed to run away from him were a combination he let get to him.

The criticism delivered by ESPN’s Kirk

Herbstreit, that Clowney was playing, “not to get hurt,” seemed unfounded. The guess here is that we will see something closer to the Clowney we expected this season when they line up Saturday.

That gives the edge to the Gamecocks against a Georgia team with confidence and performance issues.

September 4, 2013

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Gamecocks claim battle of Carolinas in season opener by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com South Carolina’s offense proved to be the unit with the ability to strike quickly despite pre-game predictions, as the sixth-ranked Gamecocks rode a 17-point first quarter to a 27-10 victory in the season opener.

The 17 first-quarter points were the most the Gamecocks have scored in the first quarter of a season opener since putting up 23 against Central Florida in 1996. The charge was led by a three-play, 82-yard drive that was capped by a 65-yard touchdown pass on Connor Shaw’s first attempt to Shaq Roland. The score came only 1:19 into the first quarter.

“We did some good running, and obvi-

ously hit some big plays in the game … so we had some good plays, but had a lot of bad plays too,” head coach Steve Spurrier said.

“We’re happy to beat them. Who knows how good of a team they or us will be. It was a good first game.”

The Gamecocks capitalized on big plays by scoring their second touchdown on a 29-yard pass on Dylan Thompson’s only throw of the game. Mike Davis responded to North Carolina’s field goal to open the second half with a 75-yard touchdown run as he outran his pursuers. His run was the longest rush from scrimmage for the Gamecocks since an 88-yard run by Bobby Wallace in 2006.

The Tar Heels’ offense was able to move the ball by putting together a couple of long drives and capitalizing on third downs dur-

ing the game, but they were only able to net 10 points. The drives were 16 and 17 plays, respectively. However, the Gamecocks were able to answer both with scores of their own.

The Gamecock offensive line performed well, allowing the offense to put up 406 yards, including 228 rushing yards. They allowed only one sack. Davis led the way with 115 yards on 12 carries and the touchdown.

South Carolina’s defense performed well overall, despite the two long drives. They only surrendered 293 yards, 99 of them rushing.

“We played a team that snapped the ball 79 times and only had 10 points, a team that averaged 40-plus a ball game last year with a veteran quarterback coming back … we’ve got a lot we can work on, but there are some

positive things we can take from it,” defensive coordinator Lorenzo Ward said.

Standout Jadeveon Clowney had no sacks, but was around the ball on many plays. T.J. Gurley led the Gamecocks in tackles with nine, and many players saw action due to the heat and speed of the game.

The game also had an hour and 44-minute weather delay with 8:20 remaining in the fourth quarter. After the break, the teams traded possessions and the Gamecocks made a goal line stand to secure the victory late.

The Gamecocks will look to keep the offense clicking as they travel to Athens, Ga. next week to take on the Bulldogs in an SEC East top-25 showdown. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. The game will be nationally televised on ESPN.

PHOTO BY ALLEN SHARPE Shaq Roland races past the North Carolina defense to give South Carolina an early advantage over the Tar Heels in the season opener at Williams-Brice Stadium.

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September 4, 2013

PHOTOS BY ALLEN SHARPE AND JENNY DILWORTH Roland stretches out for a catch above. Below Brandon Wilds in action against UNC.

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September 4, 2013

Gamecock Club honors chapter MVPs

Photo by Allen Sharpe Athletics Director Ray Tanner, Gamecock Club Executive Director Patrick McFarland and York County president Chip Comer share a laugh. York County was the Garnet Division winner.

Photo by Allen Sharpe Photo by Allen Sharpe Horry County president Ryan Graham accepts the award for most improved chapter.

Rick Cutaia accepts the Director’s Cup Black Division award for Charleston County.

Photo by Allen Sharpe Aiken’s Chris Fulmer is given the Gamecock Club’s Most Valuable President award. He is joined by his wife, Kathy.

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September 4, 2013

Track and field coaches represent on the national level by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com

under your coaching and teaching that is selected to be there. That is probably the ultimate … that you have people there that you personTwo members of South Carolina’s track and ally had something to do with them being field coaching staff got the honor of representthere,” Quarles said. ing Team USA in international competition “It’s not necessarily a goal of ours, but more over the summer. of a product of the system. It’s really a credit Track and field head coach Curtis Frye was to those athletes that we’ve had here that they able to do so twice, serving as men’s head go on to compete internationally,” Frye concoach at the World University Games and an firmed. assistant coach for sprints and hurdles at the The staff was excited to have both Jeannelle 2013 IAAF World Championships. Both were Scheper and Kierre Beckles from the program held in Russia. Gamecocks’ assistant coach competing at the World Championships, as Delethea Quarles served as an assistant for well as alumni Natasha Hastings, Lashinda jumps and combination events at the World Demus and Jason Richardson performing well Championships as well. from the program.

“The advantages of a trip like that is to These athletes going on and doing well in ingain new experiences, even if you may have ternational competitions has helped to promote done some of these things before,” Frye said. the program and separate from others around “Growth never stops … there’s an opportunity the country. The coaches said that it is all a for everything that you’ve been selected to do, credit to the athletes they have been fortunate and sometimes you don’t realize until you’re in enough to have in the program, and also a the midst of a situation how good an opportuproduct of the relationships the staff has been nity really is.” able to have with them while on campus.

In serving as both a head and an assistant “We care for the whole athlete, and we have submitted photo coach, Frye discussed the differences in his just been blessed to have individuals who are duties also saying he enjoyed both experienc- South Carolina head track & field coach Curtis Frye and assistant Deletha Quarles in Russia. gifted enough to compete internationally. We es. Frye said he enjoyed being a resource, but like to create a life-long relationship with the he also liked being the decision maker as the head coach. to serve your country and to represent your university … It athletes, and it is great to see some of them go on to be suc“I like making the decisions because many things that people just kind of elevates what you’re doing,” Quarles said. “To me cessful on an international level,” Quarles said. see as urgent, because you’ve done them before … they’re not it’s one of the ultimate things to have been selected for in my Both coaches are excited about the upcoming season and the ‘panic urgent,’” Frye explained. “So I had a lot of wealth to career.” chance to help more athletes improve and grow as people godraw from and it made it easy for us. I liked being a resource, The honor to serve at the World Championships was great ing forward. but being a resource makes you need to be removed from the for both coaches, being one of the highlights of the sport every “I’m a juiced up guy from this trip. I’ve been reenergized on decision … you have to paint a picture for someone as an astwo years (second only to the Olympics). Quarles noted that why we do what we do. We’re impacting lives so that they can sistant of what needs to be done,” Frye added. it is an important competition to get on the radar for Olympic impact the world. That’s what coaching is,” Frye said. “MeetBoth coaches talked about the process of being selected team selection, and having student-athletes competing at that ing people where they are, and helping them get where they to the national team coaching staff, with applications, merit level is a tribute to those athletes. want to be is probably the thing that motivates me the most. evaluation and committee selection. They echoed each other The coaches were also reunited with some former Game“We want to build something that we can be proud of here at saying that it was a great honor and opportunity. cocks at the World Championships, which they said is one of South Carolina long range … I’m just proud to be a part of the “It means a great deal after being in coaching for over the ultimate testaments to the program. initial, now the actuality, and hopefully a part of the continua20-something years. To get selected of course is a great honor “It’s one thing to serve, but it is another thing to have someone tion,” Frye added.

Gamecock cross country off to solid start by brian hand bhand@spursandfeathers.com

cross country program after running AA Elite Coaching in North Carolina for the past nine South Carolina assistant track years. & field coach Andrew Allden is Allden was on the job for less in his second stint at the helm than 20 days before leading the of the Gamecock cross country Gamecocks into their first cross program. country event on Aug. 30.

Allden previously coached the Despite the whirlwind start to Gamecock cross country team the year for Allden and his 31 from 1996-2000. During his student-athletes, the thing that first stop with the Gamecocks excites him the most in the uphe helped lead the team to a coming season for the team is program-best placing of fifth in the depth that the program has the SEC standings in 1999. currently.

He returns to the Gamecock “I see a lot of potential … if

I compare it to the teams that I was working with here in the late 90s, I would say that the team is deeper, so I think we are stronger at No. 10 and I think over time that’s going to have a significant ripple effect.

I am excited about what I would describe as the quality depth of the program,” noted Allden.

The depth to which Allden alludes was particularly evident in the Carolina Challenge meet on Aug. 30 with South Carolina picking up seven of the top-14 finishers in their home event.

The Gamecocks finished second as a team in the event.

The 5K Carolina Challenge was the first of two consecutive home meets to start the year for the Gamecocks. The Gamecocks will host the 5K Gamecock Invitational #1 this Friday evening at Hilton Field.

The Gamecocks will hit the road for the first time for the 5K Mountain Dew Invitational in Gainesville, Fla. on Sept.

14. The Gamecocks have seven meets in total before the SEC Championships on Nov. 1.

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High expectations for men’s golf entering upcoming year by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com The Gamecock men’s golf team had a strong season in 2012-13 and returns a core of contributors this season.

The Gamecocks have high expectations for the upcoming year. Golfweek ranks South Carolina in the top-20 in the nation (18th) to begin this year’s campaign.

The season will get underway for the Gamecocks on Sept. 6 as they play in the Carpet Capital Collegiate in Dalton, Ga. The event is three-day tournament that will be the team’s first test.

“I think the ranking is mainly a reward from last year … it’s always good to be in the top-20, top-25,” head coach Bill McDonald said. “I think it’s a statement that we made a good run last year, and they know we have a nucleus coming back.

“Personally, I think this team could go well beyond that. I think we have that capability this year to get ranked a lot higher,” McDonald added.

The team’s depth will be one of the strengths as three of the five players from last year’s postseason lineup will be ready for action in the opening event.

Caleb Sturgeon, Matt NeSmith and Will Starke will anchor the lineup for the Gamecocks.

“Caleb Sturgeon is our team leader I would say, and Matt NeSmith and Will Starke are sophomores now,” McDonald said. “Matt was the top player in the country coming in here, and he lived up to that reputation. Will was a top-15 player in the country as well and he’s extremely talented.”

McDonald also mentions junior Will Murphy, a player who has contributed for a couple of seasons, and some of the other members with experience as adding to the team’s depth.

McDonald also notes that the two freshmen on the roster have made the transition to college well and impressed on the course so far.

“I’m extremely impressed in our first week or so back with our two freshmen, Ben Dietrich and Kieron Fowler …. they are two outstanding young men and really good looking players,” McDonald commented. “They’re going to help us, and I think that they could both be really great Gamecocks.”

The depth of the team also was aided by the player’s participation in events and work over the summer. McDonald said that summer play is something that he strongly emphasizes, not only for player development, but for developing the program as well.

“I think it’s (ranking) a statement that we made a good run last year, and they know we have a nucleus coming back.” ~ Head Coach Bill McDonald

“I’m trying to encourage the guys to get out and play often and play high level events,” McDonald expanded. “It’s a great time of year for them to just focus on golf … there are a lot of really great events all over the southeast and the country that they can play in and get great competition.

“A lot of times you will see a player come back from a really successful summer, and it will springboard them into a much better collegiate year,” McDonald explained.

McDonald explained that this bump from summer play often comes from the student-athletes getting familiar with colPHOTO BY ALLEN SHARPE legiate competition and learning that they can compete on the college level. Overall, NeSmith lived up to his high expectations as a freshman by being named an All-American. he stresses that it is important to keep working and competing because the summer work pays off during the season.

Summer play also helps to decide the lineup for early-season events, such as the first one on the Gamecocks’ schedule.

McDonald noted that he based most of the lineup for the first event on which players had the best summer, thus keeping them from having to go through extra qualifying rounds early in the year.

The regionals and big tournaments for the golf schedule may come in the spring semester, but McDonald said that the fall portion of the schedule is just as important. He added that there are a few different things that can be accomplished in the fall, but all the events count.

“Our schedule is an accumulation starting now all the way to conference and on into regionals hopefully, so they’re very important tournaments,” McDonald noted. “With that being said, you also want to try to develop your team during this period as well and play as many guys as you can.

“The goal is really a combination of trying to play at a very high level and also getting as many guys into the lineup as possible,” McDonald concluded.

The Gamecock golf team looks to be in a prime position heading into the fall portion of the schedule, and they hope to capitalize on potential to put together another successful season.

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Women’s golf looks to depth for strength by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com

of the players performed well during the summer. Justine Dreher, Sarah Schmelzel and Chlesey Couch all participated in This season’s version of the South Caro- very competitive events over the summer. lina women’s golf team has head coach “We had a lot of success this summer, Kalen Harris excited about the upcoming and people played a lot of golf. Justine season, despite the fact that she doesn’t Dreher did very well at the British Womput much stock into South Carolina’s pre- en’s Amateur … she beat several really, season rank of 20th. really strong players,” Harris said.

“A ranking is a ranking, and things The returners were not the only players change throughout the year. It doesn’t to draw compliments from Harris, as she matter,” Harris said. “Hopefully we’ll im- said that the two freshmen coming in this prove on that ranking. We’ve got our goals year may comprise the best recruiting set very high this year, and I think we can class in her time heading South Carolina. accomplish a lot.”

Even though the recruiting classes are Harris says that the depth of this year’s small, the quality of this group gives them squad will be its biggest asset, and the fact acclaim. that she can field a lineup that is strong The two newcomers are Katelyn Damfrom the top to the bottom will make this baugh from South Carolina and Alex team competitive in every event.

Yang coming over from China. Dam“It’s probably the best depth that we’ve baugh was one of the top recruits in the had since I’ve been here … we’ve got a nation, and Yang brings a reliable, steady whole arsenal from one to five, and that’s game to create a combination that should really exciting that every kid can put up a greatly benefit the Gamecocks. low number,” Harris explained. “There’s “She’s had a lot of success and she’s not a whole lot of weakness from our one extremely talented. I think she is going to to our five.” be a player to watch throughout her four The returning class will bring experiyears … she’s always hit the ball a long ence and talent to the team, and many way and been very talented,” Harris said

of Dambaugh. “She’s going to be an exciting player to watch.”

Of Yang, Harris said, “she has an unbelievable short game, and plays a lot throughout the world and is just a very steady player. She hits a lot of fairways, hits a lot of greens and her short game is just phenomenal.”

The individuals on the team all bring talent, and Harris says that they will bring out the best in each other. The competition among the players does not take away for the team unity, as she says that they have bonded together and pushed each other to get better.

“We have great chemistry … it’s a fantastic group. We have people from both sides of the country and all over the world, and I think the camaraderie is good,” Harris said. “The competition factor amongst themselves is good … playing against each other every day will make them work harder and make them better.

“They will just have to step up a little bit more. The teams that I’ve been around and been able to work with, that has always made better players,” Harris added.

The competition in the SEC is another

added factor that Harris credits to making both the players and the team better. She said that the better teams push the Gamecocks to be better, and if they played in another conference the team might not be as good.

Overall, Harris said that the goal is always to contend for championships in every tournament despite the inconsistencies that can be present in golf. She is confident that this group’s depth will pay off and allow the team to do just that.

“The game of golf is strange at times, it’s similar to baseball I’ve heard, there’s a lot of luck involved. You have to have a lot of patience and just stay with it, stay with your process and kind of wait for your upturn,” Harris explained. “That’s part of the game, not to get too down on yourself, just remain positive and keep working on your process to stay with it.

“We’re just going to continue to work on our short game, work on our wedge play and scoring game and really get that through to them ... I think we’ve got a lot of talent and we’ll be patient in the process and the success will come,” Harris said.

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September 4, 2013

Jamie Smith huge part of South Carolina women’s soccer by brian hanD bhand@spursandfeathers.com

as a coaching duo and the proof of whether it works is in the championships.

The interesting dichotomy between the For most married people it would be an two spouses and colleagues has definitely interesting adventure to also go to work with evolved over the years though. your spouse every day.

“I joke around that she (Shelley) is exBut for Shelley and Jamie Smith it has led tremely tolerant of me … she is really good to championships for the South Carolina and she listens when I have input and we women’s soccer program. kind of bounce things off each other. We The married tandem has helped lead the are constantly talking about it in the house, Gamecocks to an SEC Tournament champi- which is probably not a good thing someonship and an SEC regular season title in the times, but it is nice that you can go home last four years and the Gamecock women’s and have someone to talk about issues with,” soccer program has become perennial conJamie Smith said. tenders not only in the SEC, but also nationJamie Smith also believes that while other ally during the stretch. programs talk about a family environment, The tandem is now in its 13th year together that is something that they actually provide

to their student-athletes.

“I think for us being a husband and wife they (student-athletes) are truly an extension of our family … it is how we treat it; as if they are our own, so hopefully that is how they feel it is,” Jamie Smith noted.

Shelley Smith echoes his comments.

“It has worked out so well … obviously we both have been so invested in building a program so it means a lot to us and it is a family as well. I always say I couldn’t do half the things I am able to do now as a coach and as a parent … we have just been a team in all aspects. We can count on each other to do what we need to do to get the job done as a family and as a professional,” Shelley Smith said.

A former AFLAC Assistant Coach of the Year award winner, Jamie Smith began his time with his wife Shelley at South Carolina coming off a strong background as a men’s assistant coach at Brown, Dartmouth and Vermont. He was at one point the interim head coach at Vermont.

An accomplished player in his own right, Jamie Smith graduated from Providence College in 1994. He was a three-year starter for the Friars where he is still second alltime for career saves with 263. He would later play professionally before getting into coaching.

Smith has been able to take his talents in Please see smith, Page 21

Sand volleyball commences efforts to get ready for inaugural season by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com

“We’ve got until March to really work on strengthening, conditioning and getting geared up. They’re a little bit sore coming The newest program of South Caroina in to start the second day, but I think that is athletics has begun work for its upcoming kind of to be expected with the first week. inaugural season this spring. Head coach So they’re good. They’re all fired up, there is Moritz Moritz said that the excitement level is great energy in there, and we’re just having a so high for the group in every aspect that the lot of fun with that preparation phase,” Moritz team has gone through in getting the program added. started from scratch.

“The excitement level has been amazing for every little thing. It’s such a cool group because they’re so appreciative of everything, for the opportunity to build this,” Moritz said.

“The littlest things, like getting a shirt that says ‘sand volleyball’ on it … being able to go lift as a group and have team meetings as a group, they’re so fired up.

“It’s exciting to be able to see them rejuvenated in a lot of ways … it’s cool though, to see them come together, gel as a group and be excited about the future of the program.”

Moritz credits the team for being ambitious in approaching every challenge that they have faced thus far in the process. He said that the new members are self-motivated, with the new student-athletes learning the paths to the weight room, timing the walk to the practice courts and exploring the academic enrichment center on their own volition.

The team has begun working with the strength and conditioning staff, and Moritz said that the staff is fantastic at what they do.

He said that they are “not trying to reinvent the wheel” with the program, but the staff has Moritz credited not only the team, but done a good job of creating a specific proalso every part of the support staff for the gram for the team. student-athletes on campus, from the staff at “We’re definitely working on fine tuning the Dodie Academic Enrichment Center, the the student-athlete that is going to have fast nutritionists, academic advisors, the athletic footwork and really be able to explode off the training staff all the way up to the adminissurface,” Moritz said. “Now they’re develop- tration. ing speed and footwork with moving and “We can’t speak highly enough of everymaintaining good posture and good eyes. body that has their fingerprints on every

student-athlete in some way … we have quality people that are helping us with every different aspect, strength and conditioning, academic advisors that are unbelievable. It’s such a great opportunity and the resources that our kids have to develop is huge for us,” Moritz said.

Moritz said that there is a great relationship between the team and the support system of

and support, you’re going to be successful. There’s good people doing a lot of good things to help us, and they’ll probably never get the recognition they deserve,” Moritz continued.

With all that support, the countdown to competition has come even more to the forefront for the coach and team. Moritz installed a ticker that is counting down to that AVCA Sand National Championship tournament, which is about 250 days away. He said that it is a good reminder of what the team is working for in the process because the goal is to be competing in that tournament.

The team will take the court for the first time next week and begin training with balls and working on volleyball in a match-like setting. Moritz said the team will work on individual training with a focus on technique and fundamentals, taking the time to break down every skill to a baseline skill set and then building back up from there.

He said the excitement level that has been high in the first week or so will really get amped up when the team is able to go out and take to the courts. This will be true for not only the team, but for Moritz as well.

“That’s what we live for; that’s why we got into this job … the best part is to be on the court. You’re really working on the technical aspects, getting feedback and seeing the response and adjustments that they’re making and learning too. That’s everything that we love to do, and that’s the reason that we got people working hard to help them to be sucinto coaching,” Moritz explained. cessful. He added that this makes the team The team is excited to take another step in recognize that there are no little things or me- the process, and every one is important benial actions because everything is important cause that ticker is constantly counting down. in the creation of a new program. **Editor’s Note: Spurs & Feathers will “It is imperative to be excellent students, ex- be following sand volleyball all year. This cellent athletes and excellent representative of is the second article in what will be a yearSouth Carolina in the community. When you long adventure with South Carolina’s newkeep those things in mind with the resources est athletic program.**

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September 4, 2013

Catching up with Glenn Snyder by brian hand bhand@spursandfeathers.com

Most people change their ideas of what they want to do with their life many times before settling on a career.

That was not the case with former Spurs & Feathers writer Glenn Snyder who after 30 years with the publication has moved on to other new and exciting opportunities.

Snyder has known what he wanted to do with his life since he was 13 years old.

“When I was 13 I came to Columbia and saw the horseshoe and met our coach at the time, which was Marvin Bass. I knew that day I was going to come to school here, I was going to be in Columbia the rest of my life and I wanted to do what I have been doing for 30 years. So my life has worked out pretty well,” Snyder said.

That life as a Gamecock is nowhere near coming to an end as Snyder has just been hired

by The State to work with GoGamecocks.com.

“I am going to do it from a different slant. I am going to do it kind of from my experiences in all my years. I am going to do a preview of each game, a postgame and then on Wednes-

day I am going to do kind of a special feature … I am also going to do twice a week an hour online chat,” Snyder noted.

Snyder is pretty excited about the opportunity due to the fact that he has seen the good and bad with Gamecock athletics.

“I was a writer when we were 1-21. You think about the creative writing back in those days,” Snyder joked.

Snyder over the years has become extremely close with Steve Spurrier and he knows that his new opportunity with GoGamecocks.com might not have been possible without the efforts of the Head Ball Coach.

Spurrier’s efforts most importantly mean that Snyder will be able to continue his impressive streak of catching Gamecock football games.

“Let me tell you. This number will blow your mind. Tommy Suggs is the only person on earth that has seen more. I have seen 342 (football games) in a row,” Snyder remarked days before the season opener against North Carolina.

Now Snyder is at 343. 400 is just around the corner.

PHOTO BY ALLEN SHARPE Glenn Snyder (pictured with Spurrier) has been hired by The State to work on GoGamecocks.com.

14 • Spurs & Feathers

South Carolina OFFENSE WR: 4

8

80 WR: 1

23

19 WR: 3

13

82 LT: 53

74 LG: 50

65

52 C: 51

54

70 RG: 67

75

69 RT: 71

73

55 TE: 89

88 QB: 14

17

5 FB: 41

31 TB: 28

22

7 DEFENSE DE: 90

34

44 DT: 97

92

93 DT: 99

52 DE: 7

5 MLB: 8

11

28 WLB: 21

10

32 SPUR: 9

42

6 CB: 27

4 SS: 25

20 FS: 12

17 CB: 15

3

1

September 4, 2013

Depth Charts for Sept. 7, 4:30 p.m.

Georgia

Shaq Roland 6-1 Shamier Jeffery 6-1 K.J. Brent 6-4 Damiere Byrd 5-9 Bruce Ellington 5-9 Jody Fuller 5-11 Nick Jones 5-7 Pharoh Cooper 5-11 Kwinton Smith 6-4 Corey Robinson 6-8 Mason Zandi 6-9 A.J. Cann 6-4 Brock Stadnik 6-5 Bryce King 6-3 Cody Waldrop 6-2 Clayton Stadnik 6-3 Alan Knott 6-4 Ronald Patrick 6-2 Will Sport 6-5 D.J. Park 6-4 Brandon Shell 6-6 J.P. Vonashek 6-6 Na’Ty Rodgers 6-5 Jerell Adams 6-6 Drew Owens 6-6 Connor Shaw 6-1 Dylan Thompson 6-3 Brendan Nosovitch6-1 Connor McLaurin 6-0 Jordan Diaz 6-1 Mike Davis 5-9 Brandon Wilds 6-2 Shon Carson 5-8

190 207 188 166 196 217 174 184 212 341 293 314 286 281 319 281 272 315 294 334 323 283 296 237 244 209 218 220 237 233 215 223 219

So. So. So. Jr. Jr. Fr.-RS Jr. Fr. Fr.-RS Jr. Fr.-RS Jr. Fr.-RS Fr. Fr.-RS Fr.-RS Fr. Sr. So. Fr. So. Fr. Fr. So. So. Sr. Jr. Fr.-RS Jr. Jr. So. So. So.

Lexington, S.C. St. Matthews, S.C. Waxhaw, N.C. Sicklerville, N.J. Moncks Corner, S.C. Charlotte, N.C. Moore, S.C. Havelock, N.C. Hamer, S.C. Havelock, N.C. Irmo, S.C. Bamberg, S.C. Greensboro, N.C. Dillon, S.C. Seffner, Fla. Greensboro, N.C. Tyrone, Ga. Cocoa, Fla. Milton, Fla. Dillon, S.C. Goose Creek, S.C. Saint Marys, Ga. Waldorf, Md. Pinewood, S.C. Charlotte, N.C. Flowery Branch, Ga. Boiling Springs, S.C. Allentown, Pa. Raleigh, N.C. Hamilton, N.J. Lithonia, Ga. Blythewood, S.C. Scranton, S.C.

Chaz Sutton 6-5 Mason Harris 6-3 Gerald Dixon 6-2 J.T. Surratt 6-2 Gerald Dixon Jr. 6-3 Deon Green 6-4 Kelcy Quarles 6-4 Phillip Dukes 6-3 Jadeveon Clowney 6-6 Darius English 6-6 Kaiwan Lewis 6-0 T.J. Holloman 6-2 Jonathan Walton 6-0 Marcquis Roberts 6-1 Skai Moore 6-2 Larenz Bryant 6-0 Sharrod Golightly 5-10 Jordan Diggs 6-0 Chris Moody 6-1 Victor Hampton 5-10 Ahmad Christian 5-10 Kadetrix Marcus 6-1 T.J. Gurley 5-10 Brison Williams 5-11 Chaz Elder 6-2 Jimmy Legree 6-0 Jamari Smith 5-10 Rico McWilliams 5-11

263 218 268 307 318 287 298 315 274 226 221 228 234 225 205 215 195 214 212 202 189 195 196 218 199 187 183 187

Sr. So. So. Jr. So. So. Jr. So. Jr. Fr.-RS So. Fr.-RS Fr. So. Fr. Fr. Jr. Fr.-RS Fr.-RS Jr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Fr.-RS Sr. Fr. Fr.-RS

Savannah, Ga. Fort Oglethorpe, Ga. Rock Hill, S.C. Winston-Salem, N.C. Rock Hill, S.C. Windermere, Fla. Hodges, S.C. Manning, S.C. Rock Hill, S.C. Powder Springs, Ga. Mays Landing, N.J. Stone Mountain, Ga. Daphne, Ala. Powder Springs, Ga. Cooper City, Fla. Charlotte, N.C. Decatur, Ga. Fort Myers, Fla. McDonough, Ga. Darlington, S.C. Jacksonville, Fla Stone Mountain, Ga. Cairo, Ga. Warner Robins, Ga. Union City, Ga. Beaufort, S.C. Jacksonville, Fla. Hampton, Ga

OFFENSE SE: 82

86 LT: 72

79 LG: 64

78 C: 61

66 RG: 68

75 RT: 71

75

63 TE: 88

87 QB: 11

14 TB: 3

4 FB: 48

43 FLK: 26

31 DEFENSE DE: 56

94 N: 96

93 DE: 58

47 OLB: 89

84 OLB: 59

91

84 ILB: 51

42 ILB: 52

45 CB: 4

2 CB: 5

6 SS: 11

39 FS: 28

20

Michael Bennett 6-3 Justin Scott-Wesley5-11 Kenarious Gates 6-5 Mark Beard 6-5 Dallas Lee 6-4 Watts Dantzler 6-7 David Andrews 6-2 Hunter Long 6-4 Chris Burnette 6-2 Kolton Houston 6-5 John Theus 6-6 Kolton Houston 6-5 Xzavier Ward 6-7 Arthur Lynch 6-5 Jay Rome 6-6 Aaron Murray 6-1 Hutson Mason 6-3 Todd Gurley 6-1 Keith Marshall 5-11 Quayvon Hicks 6-2 Merritt Hall 5-11 Malcolm Mitchell 6-1 Chris Conley 6-3

205 206 327 300 295 307 295 312 314 280 298 280 278 254 254 208 202 232 219 257 226 190 206

Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Sr. So. Sr. Jr. So. So. So. So. Jr. Jr.

Alpharetta, Ga. Camilla, Ga. Grantville, Ga. Adamsville, Ala. Buford, Ga. Dalton, Ga. Johns Creek, Ga. Memphis, Tenn.

LaGrange, Ga. Buford, Ga. Jacksonville, Fla. Buford, Ga Moultrie, Ga. Dartmouth, Mass..

Valdosta, Ga. Tampa, Fla. Marietta, Ga Tarboro, N.C Raleigh, N.C. Blackshear, Ga. Alpharetta, Ga. Valdosta, Ga Dallas, Ga.

Garrison Smith John Taylor Mike Thornton Chris Mayes Sterling Bailey Ray Drew James DeLoach Leonard Floyd Jordan Jenkins Josh Dawson Leonard Floyd Ramik Wilson Tim Kimbrough Amarlo Herrera Reggie Carter Brendan Langley Sheldon Dawson Damian Swann Shaq Wiggins Connor Norman Corey Moore Tray Matthews Quincy Mauger

299 336 290 321 282 276 265 220 246 254 220 232 228 244 229 181 190 178 165 201 214 196 200

Sr. Fr.-RS Jr. So. So. Jr. So. Fr. So. So. Fr. Jr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Fr. So. Jr. Fr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Fr.

Atlanta, Ga. Millen, Ga. Stone Mountain, Ga. Griffin, Ga. Gainesville, Ga. Thomasville, Ga. Millen, Ga. Eastman, Ga. Hamilton, Ga. Tucker, Ga. Eastman, Ga. Tampa, Fla. Indianapolis, Ind. College Park, Ga. Snellville, Ga. Marietta, Ga. North Memphis, Tenn.

Atlanta, Ga. Tyrone, Ga. Duluth, Ga. Griffin, Ga. Newnan, Ga. Marietta, Ga.

6-3 6-4 6-1 6-4 6-3 6-5 6-3 6-4 6-3 6-4 6-4 6-2 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-1 5-11 5-11 5-10 5-10 6-2 6-0 6-0

*These depth charts are taken from the listings from each team’s previous game.

Spurs & Feathers goes to print shortly after each football game. Please visit www.spursandfeathers.com over the course of the week for updated depth charts.

Spurs & Feathers • 15

September 4, 2013

Athletics department to host All Sports Reunion South Carolina Athletics Media Relations The University of South Carolina Athletics Department has announced the dates for the 2013 All Sports Reunion. The reunion will take place during Homecoming Weekend, November 1-2 in Columbia. To kick off the weekend, former student-athletes are encouraged to attend the 2013 All Sports Reunion Reception on Friday, November 1 in the Athletics Village. On Saturday, former student-athletes will join fellow alumni at the My Carolina Alumni Association Homecoming Tailgate in Gamecock Park (former Farmer’s Market) prior to watching the Gamecock football team take on Mississippi State.

“The Gamecock All Sports Reunion gives us a chance to honor former student-athletes who have worn the Garnet and Black and represented the University so well,” said Athletics Director Ray Tanner. “We have a long and storied history at USC and by honoring our past; we hope to keep this tradition going so that Gamecocks for years to come will be treasured in the memories of

“We have a long and storied history at USC and by honoring our past; we hope to keep this tradition going so that Gamecocks for years to come will be treasured in the memories of all that support Carolina.” ~ Athletics Director Ray Tanner

all that support Carolina.”

This year’s event will be open to all former student-athletes from all sports and all years. Please visit Reunion Registration to register. Registration deadline is Oct. 18.

For more information, contact Jay Brown, Gamecock Club Assistant Director at 803.777.5723 or JayBrown@sc.edu.

16 • Spurs & Feathers

September 4, 2013

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Pictured on left is Cocky outside of The Mason Jar in New York City. Pictured on the right is the NYC Gamecocks watching last year’s South Carolina-Arkanas game inside The Mason Jar.

A Carolina New York State of Mind by brian hand bhand@spursandfeathers.com

thews noted. statistics,” Buzzelli remarked.

The group has been around for a long time, Buzzelli feels that it is a home away from but things really began to pick up for the home for the roughly 8,000 or more GameGamecock fans in the Big Apple may have group five years ago with 50 people coming cocks in the greater New York area who a New York state of mind, but in arguably out to support the Gamecocks at watch pareither went to school there, have children that one of the toughest places to live in the coun- ties on a regular basis. Three years later it go to school there or are just general Gametry they have not forgotten their roots and was around 200 people a game. cock fans. how to show southern hospitality to their felNow the NYC Gamecocks begin the 2013 “You meet alumni everywhere up here. low Gamecocks. football season with 400-plus people at each This year alone, 122 kids are coming to The New York City Gamecock Club and watch party, South Carolina the Greater New York chapters of My Caro- which is held at “You meet alumni everywhere as freshman lina Alumni Association work hand-in-hand The Mason Jar from the area,” up here. This year alone, 122 kids Buzzelli said. to make New York feel like home for Game- in New York cock fans in the area.

City.

According to are coming to South Carolina as Buzzelli, There are roughly over 8,000 alumni in the According to evgreater area and the chapter is one of the larg- Buzzelli, the ery other SEC freshman from the area.” est out of the Carolinas and Atlanta.

NYC Gameschool in New ~ New York City Gamecock Club president JR Buzzelli This is something in which My Carolina cocks are a York City also Alumni Association president Nick Mat“very active has about equal thews and New York City Gamecock Club chapter.” They have even gotten The Mason the amount of alumni and fans in the area so president JR Buzzelli take great pride. MatJar to completely buy in to their product as it makes it a very competitive situation with thews is also the vice president of the New the restaurant recently joined the Gamecock the other SEC chapters.

York City Gamecock Club chapter.

Club’s Garnet Market.

Despite the competitive nature between “We have a large alumni base in the area, “This is a remote chapter so it is tough to go SEC schools, the NYC Gamecocks jointly but it is transient and the turnover is great. to home events. Most people in the area may work with the other SEC chapters to host We help newcomers navigate the city and we be able to only go to one or two games a year. events. In fact, there was even an SEC tailalso cater to people in the area on vacation When we have the game-watching events we gate in Central Park. or that are even just there for the week. Some try to make it a home away from home. There The alumni association in the area may be of the most rewarding comments we have are no commercial breaks because during the large, but the Gamecock Club is still continureceived is that (when they were with group) breaks we have a band play the fight song, or ing its growth with the club, featuring just it felt like home with the atmosphere,” Mathave raffles, or give out general Gamecock over 100 members.

The fledgling New York City Gamecock Club may be a work in progress, but Buzzelli is excited about where they are currently.

“I don’t benchmark against other chapters. I benchmark against the opportunity and with 8,000 people living in the New York-New Jersey-Connecticut area with very high interest in the Gamecocks, I am excited about the future. It’s a lot of work but also energizing and a lot of fun to work with so many passionate Gamecocks.”

According to Matthews, one of the ways they have gotten the word out about the NYC Gamecocks is through social media avenues and their website.

This mindset has helped to draw in the large crowds for their game-watching, alumni, networking and philanthropic events.

In fact, the NYC Gamecocks want every Gamecock fan to know that if you visit New York City come by and watch a game with the group, or even that you can just come by The Mason Jar and show your Gamecock Club card to get a discount. They want to be one of all Gamecock fans stop in the city that never sleeps.

For more information on the NYC Gamecocks, please visit their official website at www.nycgamecocks.com. You can also follow them on Twitter @NYCGamecocks and like them on Facebook at NYC Gamecocks.

September 4, 2013

Spurs & Feathers • 17

18 • Spurs & Feathers

September 4, 2013

Dinobrite Productions sets out to make something dynamite for Gamecock fans by brian hand bhand@spursandfeathers.com Dinobrite Productions set their goals pretty high when deciding to do a video to promote their Gamecock Mixtape.

They wanted to simply make the best Gamecock video ever.

Recorded for the most part in the summer of 2012 at The Jam Room recording studio in Columbia, S.C., the Gamecock Mixtape took a lot longer to formulate than expected with everything finished with the mixtape basically around the time of South Carolina’s fourth straight victory over Clemson in November of 2012.

Realizing that they wanted to spend more time getting things together for the release of the mixtape, the Dinobrite Productions duo of producer Joey Thompson and artistic director Fabio Frey decided that a top-notch video was in order.

After doing the video for “Rock Out (aka the Spurrier Rap)” three years earlier, the tandem originally felt that doing a video might not be in their best interest, but in the end they decided that it would be the best way to get the word out about the mixtape.

They then decided to dream big. And dream big they did.

Dinobrite Productions even formulated that since their dream for making the best Gamecock video ever was so big that they would even have to take off a few months from doing their normal day-to-day job of putting together top-notch videos for organizations like United Way and universities such as Dartmouth and South Carolina (for example the Carolina’s Promise capital campaign videos).

Once they took off work for a few months, they got down to business with one simple, but extremely large idea guiding them: “What if we had George Rogers and Marcus Lattimore drive off in a Ferrari?”

“It was the basis for everything,” Thompson noted.

The duo wrote the idea down in their office, on their phones and even put in each of their houses to constantly remind them that was the goal.

Through Gamecock video-making legend Justin King knowing Marcus Lattimore and George Rogers buying in, the idea actually became a reality.

Thompson mused that to them having the opportunity to work with Lattimore and Rogers on this video was to them akin to the experience of the Red Sox coming back from

“Another goal was not only to help get the word out to Gamecock fans, but out to the national audience as well. We wanted to show just how hardcore our fans are.” ~ Artistic Director Fabio Frey

could include moving on to New York and/or Los Angeles.

The duo met at South Carolina by doing comedy skits and they were actually the first comedy production team to be featured on Comedy Central’s Tosh.O twice.

The strong resume now accompanying them, they will depart hoping to unleash a comedy movie on the world in the next five years.

They depart South Carolina having done exactly what they wanted.

“You set your goals high and sometimes it turns out even better than you could imagine. three games down to win the 2004 American not only South Carolina fans, but everyone This video is something we will always be League Championship series over their rival nationally just how far the Gamecocks have proud of and is hopefully something that the Yankees. It was that big. come. fans will cherish forever,” Thompson con“The day of the shoot on July 1 it was over“Another goal was not only to help get the cluded. cast and we were worried that the guy with word out to Gamecock fans, but out to the na- For more information on the Gamecock the Ferrari would not show up if it was rain- tional audience as well. We wanted to show Mixtape, please visit gamecockmixtape.com. ing, but the clouds opened and he showed up. just how hardcore our fans are,” noted Frey.

To learn more about Dinobrite Productions, That kind of good fortune carried throughout That goal has been accomplished for the please visit dinobritevideo.com. the video. I guess you could say we felt the most part as the video has been featured by Gamecock gods were with us,” Thompson ESPN and other national media outlets. said.

One of the reasons Dinobrite Productions Lattimore and Rogers were not the only feels it was so successful is that while it is a two to buy into the video with Gamecock rap video, and although everyone may not greats Mike Hold, Alex Hawkins, Brandon love rap, they went about making a product Bennett, Steve Taneyhill, Andre Goodman, that was clean by FCC standards and profesRyan Brewer, Travelle Wharton, Troy Wilsionally done. liamson, Johnathan Joseph, Tim Frisby, JasThe video as noted is just the lead-in to per and Casper Brinkley, Captain Munnerthe Gamecock Mixtape, which was profeslyn, Cliff Matthews, Travian Robertson and sionally mastered by the same person (Joe Devonte Holloman all making appearances Lambert) that mastered Macklemore’s last in the video. Even Sir Big Spur and Darius album. Frey laid down most of the beats and Rucker made appearances.

Dinobrite Productions conceptualized all the After nabbing their goal of Lattimore and songs eventually rapped by various rappers Rogers for the highly-polished, professional from the Palmetto State. video, Dinobrite Productions then set out to The mixtape even features a special skit make an overall video that was a “cool hiswith Rogers and Gamecock baseball legend tory lesson” for Gamecock fans.

Michael Roth.

The duo read about Gamecock history, The video accomplished and the Gamecock watched Gamecock documentaries and Mixtape on the street, Frey and Thompson even looked through old yearbooks to show now set their sights on their future, which

September 4, 2013

Spurs & Feathers • 19

Veteran leading team to success on the pitch by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com

had great talent, but we’ve never just looked as good as we do now as a team.”

Au said the goal for the team will be to Senior forward Danielle Au was honored go into conference play undefeated, but as the SEC Offensive Player of the Week recognized that sometimes a game can just for netting two game-winning goals in the go against you. The other goal for non-conGamecocks’ undefeated opening weekend ference play is to continue to build the team that included an upset of seventh-ranked chemistry that led to the team’s success over Duke. the first weekend.

Au is also in the top-10 in the program “We have a lot of new faces, so it will be record books for goals and points, but the hard to adjust and travel, but I think we’ve statistics and accolades are not important to done well with adversity so far. I think it will her. be a good challenge, but also a good opporAfter its strong start, South Carolina has tunity for us,” Au said. jumped into the rankings and been recogThe personal goals and team goals align nized nationally for their play. This includes well for Au, as must be the case on any sucthe honor for Au as well goalkeeper Sabrina cessful team. She said that she does not reD’Angelo and midfielder Elizabeth Sinclair ally pay attention to statistics or accolades, being selected to teams of the week by Top- but rather just wants to do her job the best DrawerSoccer.com and CollegeSoccer360. she can to help the team win. com.

“I didn’t even know about the accolades Au said that the team has come together because I don’t have Twitter or social media with great chemistry and is focused on … but obviously as a forward you’re always achieving as a group rather than individual trying to create scoring opportunities. So honors. you always have that in the back of your “We couldn’t have gotten any of that with- mind, but it’s never about the statistics or PHOTO BY ALLEN SHARPE out the team - certain results, you just want to balls slipped through, win,” Au noted. “Part of Danielle Au was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week for her efforts on the pitch last week.

“In years before we certain passes made - if your job is to score and someone didn’t work set people up, but I don’t had great talent, hard in this aspect we pay attention to the stawouldn’t have gotten this but we’ve never just tistics.” opportunity. We’re just Smith knows that Au looked as good as we will really lucky that we’ve be an offensive all gelled really well and do now as a team.” weapon for the team gogotten those opportuni~ Danielle Au ing forward, whether she ties,” Au said. “We’ve is scoring or setting up worked really hard in the teammates with chances. summer and spring, and it’s exciting that we “Obviously she’s proven she can score can catch a couple of breaks and do well.” goals already this year. She will continue to Head coach Shelley Smith said that Au has produce for us. If she starts to gain attention been doing the little things to get better, and from other opponents it will open up others she has been working hard since the end of around her who are capable of scoring as last season to improve. Smith is pleased with well,” Smith commented. her dedication and the way she has been Overall, the goals of Au’s senior season are leading by example. to have a successful season, even saying that “It means a lot when your seniors have that she would love to have an undefeated season much invested, and it helps bring the young for her season. She thinks this group is caplayers along … It’s not what she’s done pable of that, but knows that realistically that while we’re next to her, it’s what she’s done is quite the challenge. all year,” Smith added.

“I want every game to be a battle for us, Au credited the team gelling together and and I want us to compete well. I think we group mentality for the early season success- have the ability to do that. I really think the es, and hopes that these can be continued team this year is special … I think we can and repeated throughout the season. She said make a run in the playoffs and the SEC and that this year’s squad is special and could be return to being a top program,” Au said. capable of great achievements in the always The Gamecock soccer team is set up for a tough SEC. competitive run, and as the season unfolds “I think our team gels really well. We’re re- they will see if they can continue the level of ally competitive and serious during practice, play displayed in the season-opening weekbut as soon as practice ends or we’re in the end. If that can happen, then Au’s hopes may locker room, we’re having fun and joking be attainable as the team looks to contend around,” Au explained. “In years before we both on the SEC and national levels.

20 • Spurs & Feathers

September 4, 2013

Inside the Gamecock weight room by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com

When most people think about preparing to play football, they assume it is just a bunch of big guys lifting a lot of heavy weights. Director of Football Strength and Conditioning Joe Connolly says that there is much more in the process than just weightlifting in preparing these athletes to play.

“My goal, and really my job description in general … you’ve got general physical preparedness and specific physical preparedness. We’re talking about running, conditioning, lifting; getting guys bigger, stronger, faster,” Connolly explained. “Position coaches handle the specific, and I handle the general part of it.”

The facilities play a big role in allowing the players to improve under Connolly’s guidance, and the football facilities and weight room draw his praise.

“We’re blessed to have a great facility here … we try to stay up on the latest technology, but also try to have the best equipment for the guys. We have all the different bells and whistles you can have,” Connolly said.

The priorities for Connolly and his staff differ between work during the season and offseason preparation. Recovery and regeneration must become the focus during the season and must play a big role in their efforts. During the season he also attends all the meetings to mentally go through the same things the players and coaches are put through.

Every two days a group of players, split into offensive and defensive categories, come in for a session with the strength and conditioning staff, but they are not always in to lift weights. The groups come in on opposite schedules to keep Connolly busy all the time during the season.

“A lot of times we will have a recovery and regeneration circuit where we’re working on soft tissue quality, mobility and flexibility, then getting them out the door,” Connolly said. “Really it breaks down to an individual basis.

“When we do actually lift it is a lot of maintenance. We like to get them in and get them out with a pretty decent tempo and get a little blood flowing to promote that recovery. We do a lot of yoga, a lot of pilates and we’ve gone so far as to do meditation for the guys,” Connolly continued.

Overseeing the stretching before practices and games and working with the injured players are other important facets of Connolly’s job description. Working to maintain the strength and conditioning of injured players and trying to get them back on the field as soon as possible are valuable aspects on gamedays and at practice. For this, Connolly

and staff work directly with the athletic training staff.

Connolly does note that summer work is one of the most important times of the year.

Starting in May or early June, depending on the academic calendar, the players come for four weeks, have a week off for July Fourth week, then come back for another four weeks.

Summer workouts are on a voluntary basis, but getting all the players to attend and work is basically the standard in programs around the nation. The players train for two hours a day, four days a week during the summer, and the staff promotes the players coming in for individual work to supplement the team workouts.

“On a weekly basis we do everything we possibly can. We do speed, agility, quickness training, we do conditioning and obviously strength training,” Connolly said. “We do individuals needs training, whatever that

may be. We do muscle mass gain, weight gain, core strengthening or shoulder mobility.

Whatever that may be we handle all of that.

“We also handle recovery … again, we do a lot of soft tissue work, a lot of massage, a lot of yoga and a lot of pilates. We try to do everything we possibly can and stay up-todate on current research … we try to get the guys to the best place they can be and the place their coaches want them to be,” Connolly said.

The first summer session has a bigger focus on gaining speed, both linear and lateral, and strength, while the second summer session has conditioning as the focal point. The goal is to get the players ready for camp and the season in the second session.

These summer programs had excellent attendance and commitment from the athletes, and Connolly said that this has been the norm for some time now. Connolly said the two factors that contribute to the collective buy-

“We’re talking about running, conditioning, lifting; getting guys bigger, stronger, faster.”

~ Joe Connolly

ing in of the team are “the quality young men that have been recruited … and the positive results of the past few years.”

Connolly also says that there must be a balance between the hard work and fun, especially during the voluntary summer period.

He said the key is to sprinkle in some fun so that they guys will want to come in and keep working.

A.J. Cann and Chaz Sutton both got special mention for their work over the summer, but Connolly said the whole team improved. He explained that Cann and Sutton both really seem to love the process of getting better and doing whatever it takes to get there.

One of the main keys Connolly preaches to the players and his staff is the process that it takes to get ready for gamedays. Connolly says that every day players can either get better or worse, and they have to be committed to and like the process of getting better.

“If you break down a calendar … 67-72 percent of your time in a 365-day calendar you’re preparing for three percent of your time,” Connolly explained. “You’re preparing for those games, so if you don’t like the process, then you’re going to be in trouble. All our guys, they really enjoy the process.”

In his five years on staff, Connolly has seen the change in the program’s culture with a new commitment to winning and getting better. He said that some of that comes from the staff, but mostly it is a credit to the athletes that have come into the program because at the end of the day it is all about discipline and mental toughness.

“It doesn’t matter how great of an athlete your player is if they are not mentally and physically tough enough to play football,” Connolly said. “It’s been fun, and again I believe that it has a lot to do with the quality and character of the young men we’re bringing in and our coaches are bringing in.

“The guys buy in, they’ve got great attitudes and they love to work, and that’s the difference … it’s the ones that have the mental fortitude and mental capacity to be able to handle the 365-day grind. That’s the difference,” Connolly confirmed.

Spurs & Feathers • 21

September 4, 2013

Just a Big Ole Good (Gamecock) Album

by brian hand bhand@spursandfeathers.com

Patrick Davis’ “Just a Big Ole (Game) Cock” has been a huge hit among Gamecock fans since its release in 2010.

Davis eventually took the fame he found amongst Gamecock faithful from “Big Ole Gamecock” and wrote the baseball anthem “Wingo & His Yard Cocks” and also put together a popular YouTube series entitled “Big Ole Gamecock Great Interviews” (which Davis states still has 25 yet to be seen videos).

The “Just a Big Ole (Game) Cock” song and phenomenon in itself was part of a strong grassroots movement by Carolina fans to promote the song to other members of Gamecock Nation and Davis himself, who is a South Carolina graduate who over the last decade has plied his trade as a singer/ songwriter in Nashville for major music publishers EMI Nashville & Warner Chappell Publishing.

The Camden, S.C. native has not just been successful individually, but also as a songwriter for acts such as Lady Antebellum, Jimmy Buffett, Jewel and even fellow Gamecock, Darius Rucker.

Returning to his roots and hoping to build on the strong bond many Gamecock fans already feel for his previous Carolina related material, Davis began putting together a concept album involving the Gamecocks and just recently unveiled “The Gamecock Album,” an album he released in collaboration with The South Carolina Athletic Department.

South Carolina Associate Athletic Director/ CMO Eric Nichols and Davis worked hard to find a way that the album could be what Davis calls “a win-win” for everyone.

“I wanted something that would be beneficial for all parties involved: the fans, the pro-

gram, myself and the university. I wrote five songs with our great state and the University of South Carolina in mind, and then I added seven of my more popular solo works to ‘The Gamecock Album,’” Davis noted.

Although he had been approached over the years by a bevy of Gamecock fans on the idea, what Davis did not want to do is put together a concept album just to get it out there.

Instead, he wanted to put together something that was extremely well done and also “enjoyable for the long haul.”

Despite being known more as a country singer/songwriter, Davis feels that the album will be enjoyable to fans of all genres.

“My idea was to create something that was not just great to listen to in your car or around the house, but also an album that

“Constantly I am learning things, just like in a relationship with your wife or sigcoaching the men to new heights as a mem- nificant other you are always learning new ber of the women’s staff at South Carolina. things. I am the same way when I am around “She (Shelley Smith) taught me a lot when the girls and the team. I am constantly tryI first got here having come from the men’s ing to get better with the team,” Jamie Smith side … there are things that are different remarked. than the women are than the men, but there Shelley Smith notes that Jamie’s wealth of are a lot of similarities. The similarities were knowledge and experience from working easy to pick up and we worked together on with some of the top men’s coaches in the them. She did a good job on helping me with country is a huge boon to the South Carolina the things that were different,” Jamie Smith women’s soccer program. said.

“I have relied on him from a lot of those Even with as much success as the program years he learned so much about the game has obtained during his tenure, Jamie Smith under great mentors. I think his vision and nevertheless concedes that he is still trying his ability to teach the game is phenomenal. to figure out the differences in the men’s and He plays a big role in coaching the athletes. women’s game to this day. He even likened “As a head coach we feel we are a team of it, ironically, to a relationship with a spouse. coaches. He has a way to push the players.

Sometimes I may be a little softer. I think we complement each other well. When they need to be pushed or kicked a little harder he’s got that kind of drive. I think that is why we work well together. It has worked out better than we ever imagined when we got into this 13 years ago,” Shelley Smith said.

Shelley Smith continued that now the unique relationship and Jamie’s efforts with the team are really an advantage for the Gamecocks.

“Jamie is such a good teacher of the game, men or women; he is good at what he does.

He’s learned how to coach women. He is very good. Not all men have that ability.

He truly does. I am very thankful for all he brings to the team and our family,” Shelley Smith concluded.

Smith, continued from page 12

Gamecock faithful will crank at tailgates and even inside the stadium on game days. I feel like the songs on the album from ‘Game Day Carolina Girls’ to ‘My Carolina’ to ‘We Ain’t Far,’ which includes guest vocals from my Gamecock brothers Darius Rucker and Edwin McCain, are tunes that every South Carolina fan can relate to and hopefully get excited about,” Davis said.

Davis has accomplished that and much more with the “The Gamecock Album” with the best part being that some of the proceeds will be going to the Gamecock Club.

“I was thrilled when Eric Nichols came to me with the idea … being a songwriter and musician I honestly never thought I would have anything to do with the athletic department at USC, but this project is just a real blessing for me, being a lifelong fan and everything … the Gamecock Club is so important to the University I just feel it is a perfect, happy coincidence. To me, it is like a nice little bow on the top of a present.”

Even Clemson fans have taken notice of the greatness of “The Gamecock Album.” Well, at least one song according to Davis.

“I have had a number of my Clemson friends tell me that they have tried hard to dislike ‘My Carolina,’ but they just can’t … which of course makes me smile,” Davis said.

“The Gamecock Album” was released to the public on Aug. 23 and it can be purchased now on GamecocksOnline.com, PatrickDavisMusic.com, iTunes and at local retailers, including Jewelry Warehouses. It will also be sold on game days at Williams-Brice Stadium.

News, music, tour dates and more on Davis can be found on PatrickDavisMusic.com.

Davis can be followed on Twitter @PDMusic.

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by Andy demetra Contributing Writer

hand,” he explained. “You have to maneuver your wrist, so the paint catches [the grass] the right way.”

For 30 years, Eddie Dunning has carried on Eddie Dunning never thought he’d become the tradition of painting the Fighting Game- the caretaker of one of South Carolina’s most cock logo at midfield at Williams-Brice beloved images, a symbol seen by 80,000 Stadium. fans at every home game and millions more And like any good tradition, he wants to on television. Dunning had been on the athpass it down to the next generation. letics grounds crew for a year when South For the past year, Dunning has quietly been Carolina decided to replace the artificial turf teaching the art of painting the Gamecock at Williams-Brice Stadium in favor of natuto an understudy: his 22-year-old nephew ral grass in 1984.

Jonathan Dunning, one of the newest memAs part of the makeover, supervisor of fabers of the athletics grounds crew. cilities Sarge Frye hired someone to paint the “I know I’m not going to be down here for- Gamecock at midfield. But after dotting the ever. You have to look down the road,” Dun- outline, Dunning said the man backed out. ning said last week.

So far, his nephew has shown a knack for the job.

“It was tricky at first. But it started to come to me as I did it more and more,” Jonathan said.

This year, the Dunnings’ work began three days before the Gamecocks’ season opener against North Carolina, under a sun-splashed morning sky at Williams-Brice Stadium.

They first laid out a 38-foot by 28-foot stencil, dotting it with black paint to create an outline of the Gamecock. They then colored the logo a few strokes at a time, alternating between garnet and black paint, using a pair of pressurized airless sprayers.

Eddie and Jonathan worked in tandem, painting the Gamecock in short, precise bursts from head to tail. Every few strokes, Eddie stepped back to analyze their work or give instructions.

As Jonathan followed him around, nozzle in hand, he used the same techniques that his uncle had learned over three decades of painting.

“You have to know how to move your

September 4, 2013

“He got nervous. He said ‘I can’t do this,’” he recalled.

Frye then asked Dunning, who had painted the end zones the day before, to finish the job. Dunning had no formal artistic training – not even an art class at St. John High School in Cameron, S.C. – but he agreed anyway.

“I didn’t let them know. But the Lord spoke to me. He said, ‘today I’m going to make you an important man.’

Dunning has been doing it ever since, painting the Fighting Gamecock the week before the season opener and touching it up throughout the year when the colors fade.

His work earned him the 2001 Order of the

Silver Crescent by then-Gov. Jim Hodges, honoring his contributions to the state of South Carolina.

It was in 2008 that Frye’s son Jerry first suggested he bring in a relative to learn the family business with him. That idea came to fruition last September, when Jonathan was hired as a member of USC’s grounds crew.

Eddie still carries a picture of Jonathan and his older brother, posing in their Calhoun County High School football uniforms, in his wallet.

Since the week of the UAB game in 2012, Jonathan has been working alongside Eddie, little by little learning the secrets of painting the perfect Gamecock. Like how to keep the sprayer close to the ground to narrow some of the filling. Or how to leave four inches of grass between the top of the Block C and the 50 yard-line marker.

While he has no plans to stop, Dunning knows he can’t continue forever. He says teaching his nephew is as much about honoring God as creating a legacy.

“You’ve got to have enough knowledge to know that your work is not finished. You’ve got to teach someone else, to keep His work going on Earth,” he said.

Last week, their final lines sprayed, another Fighting Gamecock set to debut, the Dunnings had one last family tradition to uphold.

Together, they climbed up to the third level of Williams-Brice Stadium to inspect their work.

Jonathan remembered the first time he gazed down at his and his uncles’ Gamecock, a view he’ll hope to have for many years to come.

“It felt good when I first did a little bit of it,” he said.

“My uncle said, ‘you’ve got a little bit of you in there.’”

September 4, 2013

Spurs & Feathers • 23

Gamecock equestrian takes championship pedigree into upcoming year by brian hand bhand@spursandfeathers.com

more events in the fall so they would not be burned out - both mentally and physically - by the time we hosted the championship,” Major Most teams would feel that it had been a pretty said. good year if they won an SEC championship, but The fact that the Gamecocks are hosting the with a program with a national championship second-ever SEC championship is something in heritage and as storied as Gamecock equestrian, which Major takes great pride. it is known that higher heights are always sought.

“We are already in the planning stages right South Carolina equestrian head coach Boo now. We are doing upgrades and our locker Major feels that even though her team ended room is scheduled to be done by December. last year on a “pretty good note” with a title at Auburn did a tremendous job hosting (the SEC the inaugural SEC equestrian championships at equestrian championships) last year, but one of Auburn the team could have fared better at the our goals has been to do it better than they did.

NCEA national championships.

We also hope to not have our student-athletes as “We could have been better at nationals. It was involved in the running (of the championship),” a little bit of a let down after working so hard to Major said. win the SEC. Sometimes that happens,” Major Before that though, Major wants to make sure noted. her team is ready for the first competition of the The reigning SEC champions return a solid year against Kansas State on Sept. 20. core to their lineup in 2013-14 team, but they “The main thing is that we are all focused and SOUTH CAROLINA ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS also bring in 12 newcomers, which includes 11 all looking towards the same goal which is a freshmen.

The large number of student-athletes will more against Kansas State on Sept. 20 and Fresno good competition against Kansas State. I think “I feel like we have a real enthusiastic, cohesive than likely allow for strong competition, parState on Sept. 27 were scheduled by Major to get they’ve got to be willing to kind of go the extra group. We have very good leadership with a ticularly among the surplus of newcomers with her team ready for the grind of the year. mile … one of the things they’ve got to do is great senior class. There is not a bad one in the Major feeling with the depth she will be able to In fact, the Gamecock equestrian schedule was just make sure they stay focused that when they bunch; in competition or out of the arena,” Major hopefully plug new student-athletes into the right designed with the idea of having many more are in practice, or at the training room, or in the said. spots. events in the fall of 2013 so that the team would weight room that they are paying attention to Preseason preparations for the 2013-14 South The Gamecocks will have just under a month not be worn out as they prepared to host the 2014 what the folks are telling them to do and they Carolina equestrian team began on Monday, to get settled before opening their 2013-14 sched- SEC Championships on March 28 and 29. get the most bang out of their buck from each Aug. 26 with a record 40 student-athletes on the ule with two home meets.

“There is a lot of behind scenes stuff that goes of those areas that they can over the next three roster.

The two home meets to kick off the year into hosting a championship. So I scheduled weeks,” Major concluded.

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September 4, 2013

Hall of Fame Ceremony, Association of Lettermen Golf Tournament coming up

by jay brown Gamecock Club

• All-America baseball shortstop Drew Meyer, a first-round draft choice by the Texas Rangers, who still holds the SEC record for Hall of Fame Induction: Thursday, Sepmost base hits in a season with 120 in 2002. tember 12th in The Zone at Williams-Brice • All-America softball pitcher Megan MatStadium. The reception will begin at 5:30 p.m., thews (Buning), who played from 1998-2002. with the dinner and inductions starting at 6:30 Matthews won 101 games for Carolina, and p.m.. The event is open to the public; tickets led the nation in saves as a true freshman. are $50 per person and may be ordered from When Matthews closed out her career in the Association of Letterman (803-760-0534) 2002, she was the Gamecocks’ all-time leader or the USC Athletic Department (803-777in strikeouts, complete games and innings 4274). Tickets are also available in the Game- pitched. cock Club Lobby at the Rice Athletics Center • Four-time women’s track All-American (1304 Heyward Street).

Charmaine Howell, who excelled in the 800 meters, finishing as runner-up at the NCAA indoor and outdoor championships. Howell The class of 2013 Hall of won a silver medal in the 2000 Olympics in the 4x400 relay. She also ran at the world Fame Class includes: championship in 1999.

• The late Arlo Elkins, who guided Caro• Max Runager, outstanding punter for lina’s women’s tennis team to 17 consecutive coach Jim Carlen’s teams of the late 1970s, NCAA tournaments, and 19 overall. Elkins who was voted to Carolina’s all time team coached the Gamecocks from 1983-2012, with in 1992. Runager punted in the NFL from his teams winning 438 matches.

1979-1989 for the Eagles, 49ers and Cleveland

Browns. He punted for two Super Bowl teams - the Eagles in 1980 and the 49ers in 1984.

• Dave DeCamilla, who anchored the offensive line for coach Paul Dietzel’s Gamecocks from 1968-1970. DeCamilla was named firstteam All-ACC in both 1969 and 1970. Carolina won the ACC title in 1969.

• Chris Boyle, baseball catcher for coach June Raines from 1981-84 who helped lead the Gamecocks to two College World Series appearances. In his career Boyle drove in 198 runs, second only to Justin Smoak’s 207, and he also had 224 base hits.

• And the late Jake Bodkin, who was voted first-team All-ACC on coach Warren Giese’s offensive line in 1960, after being named second team in 1959. Bodkin won the Jacobs Blocking Trophy for the state of SC in 1960 and was drafted by the Buffalo Bills.

Also, the annual USC Association of Lettermen’s Golf Tournament will take place Friday, September 13th at Cobblestone Golf Course (280 University Club Pwky.,

Blythewood, SC 29016) beginning at 12:00 pm. There are still sponsorship opportunities available: • Block C Sponsor: $1500- advertisement with company link on Lettermen’s website, ¼ page ad in 2013 Lettermen’s Directory, 3 by 6 ft banner at dining area, 2 sponsor signs on holes 2 and 11, 1 foursome golf team in the golf tournament, 4 passes to Lettermen’s Association Lounge at Williams Brice Stadium and 2 passes in Colonial Life Arena • Gamecock Sponsor: $1000- advertisement with company link on Lettermen’s website, 2 sponsor signs on holes 3 and 12, 1 foursome golf team in the golf tournament, 2 passes to Lettermen’s Association Lounge at Williams Brice Stadium and 2 passes in Colonial Life Arena • Varsity Sponsor: $500- Thank you recognition on Lettermen’s website, 2 hole sponsorships • Hole Sponsor: $200- sign placed at tee-box in recognition of company

26 • Spurs & Feathers

September 4, 2013

Golf tournament raises funds for Athletics in fan’s memory by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com

The first Monday of June every year for the past six years in Florence county has been a fun afternoon of golf with many Gamecock personalities helping to raise money for South Carolina Athletics. This year the Florence Chapter of the the Gamecock Club hosted the Sixth Annual William Rhea Memorial Golf Tournament with the biggest turnout for the event ever.

The event is named after Rhea, a former South Carolina student who graduated from Trinity Collegiate in Darlington, S.C. Rhea was a freshman at USC when he died in a beach house fire in Ocean Isle Beach, N.C. that claimed the lives of seven college students on Oct. 28, 2007.

“He was a huge Gamecock fan; he loved golf and he loved baseball,” Florence County president Michael “Scat” Scaturro said. “So when SUBMITTED PHOTO we started this thing, we decided that we would Pictured is Lexington County Gamecock Club President Steve Gunter, his son Bill Gunter name it after him knowing that he was a big and Florence County Gamecock Club President Scat Scaturro.

Gamecock fan and went to school there.”

The first year of the memorial tournament was the year that Carolina Stadium was built to house the South Carolina baseball team. Since Rhea loved baseball, the funds were earmarked for the new facility.

“They were looking for money for a sound system in the new locker room, and we raised over $10,000 and donated it to them to put the sound system in,” Scaturro said. “Then Coach [Ray] Tanner invited William’s brother, Andrew, to throw out the first pitch of the opening weekend series. That was pretty special.”

The funds raised by the tournament over the years have gone to help many Gamecock programs, and the Florence chapter has been able to donate over $75,000 to the Athletics Department. Since donating to the baseball team the first year, they have contributed funds to the Gamecocks’ cheerleaders, marching band, swim team, golf team, FCA and the Frye Foundation.

“This year we had the biggest turnout ever with 28 teams,” Scaturro noted. “From this year we donated some money to the indoor practice facility, and Dodie [Anderson] is tripling whatever else goes into that fund, so that multiplies itself times three.

“We’ve touched a lot of different sports up there, and been fortunate enough to be able to send a decent amount of money up there to them,” Scaturro added.

The participants are joined by a coach or Gamecock celebrity, and they get the chance to spend some time with the coaches and get to know them on a personal level.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Scaturro mentions that the assistant coaches This year’s winners were (left-to-right) Forrest Matthews, Jay Shealy and Gamecock Club As- from the football team participate every year, sistant Director Jay Brown (not pictured Stephen Thompson). and at this past tournament men’s basketball

“We’ve touched a lot of different sports up there, and been fortunate enough to be able to send a decent amount of money up there to them.” ~ Michael “Scat” Scaturro

coach Frank Martin, the soccer coaches and many Gamecock Club staff all participated.

Tommy Suggs, former Athletics Director Eric Hyman and University of South Carolina University of South Carolina president Dr. Harris Pastides also have all attended the event in the past.

The tournament is scheduled for early June every year to accommodate the schedules of the football coaches and allow them to participate. Scaturro said the timing enables many of them to come because it is after recruiting and spring practice but before the season. The coaches’ attendance is a highlight of an event where everyone in attendance enjoys a great time together.

Former Gamecock athletes frequent the event often as well, especially former baseball and basketball players from the area when possible.

“It’s just a fun afternoon of golf and interacting with the coaches, and we’re able to raise some money and donate it back to the University,” Scaturro said. “There are a lot of good Gamecock folks at this thing. The main thing for us is to give back to Gamecock Athletics, and do it in a young man’s name that was a big Gamecock fan.”

September 4, 2013

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28 • Spurs & Feathers

September 4, 2013

south carolina athletics media relations

South Carolina men’s and women’s swimming coach McGee Moody had an incredibly busy summer with one of the highlights being part of the staff at the World University Games.

Swimming their way to the top for Team USA by mike kucharski mike@spursandfeathers.com

Part of the draw for Moody was a chance to be a part of the staff that was put together Swimming head coach Mc- to serve Team USA. He said Gee Moody was another one the staff had a sort of Big Ten/ of South Carolina Athletics’ SEC flavor, and many of the members to earn the honor of other coaches were people serving on the coaching staff that he looked up to on his for Team USA. Moody was way up through the coaching picked for the team in midranks, including Jack Roach May after getting informed and Frank Berson from the by the national team director, US National Team. Moody and he was on the staff for added that the experience the World University Games gave him a great amount of in July. insight into performing on Moody said that the logistics the national and international of serving in this role were level, and how other coaches complicated because of the run their programs. timing, but it was an oppor“It was really interesting to tunity that he could not pass see the makeup of the staff. up. He was already scheduled While we were out there for a mission trip to South a lot of the time was just Africa, with only one day spent talking about swimbetween the games and his ming. Because all of us are trip. The national team agreed ‘swim-heads,’ that’s all we to fly him from Moscow to talked about out there. How to Johannesburg for his mission advance the sport, to make it work, and that sealed the deal better and what can we do diffor him. ferently,” Moody explained.

“It was a no-brainer for me.

South Carolina was also I’ve always wanted to reprehonored with the opportunity sent my country as a coach, to bring a student-athlete and being given the opporto participate in the World tunity was a great honor,” University Games. Swimmer Moody said. “For about 26 Michael Flach was chosen to days I was elsewhere, all the team and performed well over the world really. The op- in both events in which he portunity that I was given to participated, including winrepresent our country and to ning a silver medal as a part help the sport of swimming of the 4x200-meter freestyle was incredible.” relay. Flach also swam in the

200-meter butterfly, advancing to the finals and finishing sixth.

“The US is an elite swimming country in the world, so putting guys on national teams is a big deal for us … he had a great meet. He did some things he’s never done before,” Moody said. “Michael was a standout and the national team director tagged him as a guy he thinks has a really legitimate shot at making the US Team in 2016, so we’ve got to act on that now.

“He had a chance to be a part of a medal-winning relay, which to me that’s the ultimate in representing your country because it’s just that.

You are working with other guys from the US to try to win. The only team that beat them was the Russians, and being in their home country, they brought their “A-team” … you do the best you can against those guys, and our guys swam great and I was really proud of all of them,” Moody said of the silver-medal winning relay team.

Moody also noted that there were multiple Gamecock student-athletes competing on the international level over the summer. Swimmers Gerard Rodriguez and Marwan El Kamash both swam at the World Championships held in

Spain over the summer.

Both swimmers competed well, and Moody explained that the experience was a huge deal for Rodriguez, being a native of Spain.

“He represented his home country at the World Championships in his home country.

He became kind of a rock star over there a little bit, which is cool,” Moody expanded.

Moody said that the summer was incredibly hectic for South Carolina’s coaching staff, and they did not see much of each other. Moody was not the only one to travel internationally, as associate head coach Jason Memont traveled with the Gamecocks to the World Championships.

He is quick to credit his staff

for helping to coordinate the many different training plans that were specified for each athlete in their programs and competitions over the summer.

“I’m not the head coach that I am without my staff. They deserve a lot of the credit for this. A lot of times it’s the head coach who gets a lot of the glory, and it’s the assistant coaches do a lot of the work,” Moody said. “I’m very thankful for the staff that we’ve been able to hold onto here and the work that they do.”

Moody said that it is good to have all of the student-athletes back on campus to put the focus immediately back onto the NCAA season. The staff will also take a long-term

view and look at the events next summer and working to get ready for the next national and international competitions in the future, with the goal of being great at NCAA Championships and also putting more athletes on national teams.

“We have a lot of work to do not only physically in terms of preparing for those championships, but also mentally and in team aspects,” Moody said.

Moody and his staff are excited to have the group back on campus ready to make progress toward the goals that they have set for the team in the upcoming year. They are poised to push for a successful season and much more.

September 4, 2013

Spurs & Feathers • 29

30 • Spurs & Feathers

September 4, 2013

Nothing Could Be Finer! - Bring on Georgia Openers are a mixed bag. I always go into a new year anticipating an undefeated season. I am about as optimistic as they come. I even thought we would win them all in 1999.

That did not go so well, but hope always springs eternal with the kick off of a new season.

There have been some openers that have not gone exactly according to plan. 1984’s first game was one of those, when The Citadel came out and gave us all we wanted and more. If not for a half back pass by Quinton Lewis for a long score, a touchdown saving tackle on the ensuing kickoff, and Ed Girardeau a red zone stand, that Contributing season could have Editor never happened.

Even last year’s first game against Vanderbilt was closer than you would like and we were fortunate to get out with a win. There are many examples of such close calls, much less the ones that went the wrong way.

That being said, this is altogether a different era. Expectations really are realistic that USC can win every single one. North Carolina did not represent chopped liver, and for those of us old enough to remember, these guys used to be a real pain, and love looking down their noses at us. Just harken back to the beginning of the summer to the baseball Super Regional. UNC’s head coach Mark Fox referenced the real Carolina, all this represented more than your average, every-year opener. I am sure that I speak for a lot of Gamecock fans when I say, I do not like the Tar Heels.

So the sound thumping of North Carolina is sweet in more than one way. The season is off to a great start with a convincing win over an opponent that might go on to have a pretty good year, and a group I just love beating. Yes, it could have been more resounding in terms of the final score, but a win is a win, and this really was never in doubt whatsoever. From the third play with Conner to Shaq, to the thunderstorm delay, to the literal mop-up after, they never had a chance.

And all the postgame on JD Clowney and whether he is in shape. I think we will all find out just how in shape he is. Maybe he needs to eat extra fruit, or a steak, or whatever he needs to feel better, but the guy goes 100 miles per hour and he is right. You can practice and run as many wind sprints as

you want, but you cannot duplicate playing an opponent who is playing full speed, in 100-degree heat, with 80,000 fans screaming, on national TV. As he said, he will get better with every game, which is scary for our opponents! And you gotta love him referencing the score. It is all that matters.

So what could be finer than beating North Carolina? I’ll tell you what would be finer, beating Georgia for the fourth year in a row!

Basically folks, here we go. Talk about not being fond of a particular school, this is it.

At least Clemson is in South Carolina.

Growing up in Aiken, we are a stone’s throw from the Savannah River. Believe me, when you cross that river into Augusta, Ga., you are in a different world. And for a lot of reasons, but the one I am talking about here, the population is decisively Dawgs. I worked in the 1980s in night clubs as a DJ. They never stop barking. And our brethren in the Augusta Gamecock Club will need our help in the Border Bash on Riverwalk in Augusta, Friday night before the game. They will need as many of us there as possible.

But three wins in three years has made the Dawgs whimper just a bit. Four would be huge and would put USC on the fast track to the SEC East. Georgia does not have the schedule that they have had the last two years, and a loss would not mean the end of the world just as a loss to us has not killed Georgia’s Division hopes the last two years.

But needless to say, a win would make life much easier!

Watching the game Saturday night, Georgia’s line certainly was exposed by Clemson. Quite frankly, they were not very impressive (we’ll worry about Clemson later). Gurley is a man and stopping him in particular will be important (not to mention Marshall). And they will be ready. When Brian and Mike were at SEC Media Days, they asked Murray about South Carolina.

Instead of the pat answer of, “we’re only thinking about the first game,” Murray was willing to talk about how important it would be to beat the Gamecocks and the fact that he had never beaten South Carolina. They did not quit against Clemson and they will not quit on this one either.

This one is important. With a loss already, the pressure will be enormous on the Bulldogs not to go 0-2. I’m certain they will play much better than what we saw in the first game. But I think the Gamecocks will be better as well, and it will be tough, but this is definitely one that we can win. Clowney will have something to prove and four wins in a row against Georgia is within reach. Execute and we will be one step closer to the goal for the season. And that would be finer!

photo by Travis Bell/Sideline Carolina

South Carolina’s Brian Scott hauls in the game-winning pass from Phil Petty over Georgia’s Bruce Thornton in Athens, Ga. on Sept. 8, 2001. The Gamecocks won 14-9.

Photo by Lee Studio/Sideline Carolina

The University of South Carolina Gamecocks host the University of Georgia Bulldogs in this Oct. 5, 1968 photo. Georgia earned a narrow 21-20 victory in the game.

Spurs & Feathers • 31

September 4, 2013

20th Annual 2013 South Carolina – Georgia Please remember reserved bus seats DO NOT include Border Bash game tickets. Please contact Glenn Cox, (864) 597-8380, September 6th at 4p.m. at the Augusta Common in Augusta, Ga. The event will feature live music, cheerleaders, and mascots from both South Carolina and Georgia.

Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the gate. Children 12 and under are free, and VIP tickets are available. Visit borderbash.net for more information.

Greenville County UGA Bus Trip

Saturday September 7th, 2013 $40.00 per person (Includes Bus, Box Lunch, Drinks/Water) •The bus will arrive at 10AM as the K- Mart Lot, Hwy 29/I-185 •The bus will depart at 10:30AM •Reservations: Call Dan at (864) 244-3739, Joan at (864) 316-5756, or T. Wayne at (864) 901-8462

Bus Parking- Georgia Game

September 7th, 2013 Athens, GA Classic Center (300 N. Thomas Street) •Gamecock buses have parked here for years •Arrangements by the Greenville County Gamecock Club •Total cost is $50.00 per bus •To reserve call Dan Drew at (864) 244-3739

Spartanburg County Gamecock Club

“Leave the driving to us!”

First come, first serve so don’t wait; seats will fill up fast!

2013 Away Football Game Bus Trips Sept. 7 - Georgia (Athens, GA) COST: Early Bird (Before Aug. 1st) $ 45/seat After Aug. 1st $ 50/seat) Departure Time & Place Jason Deli’s Parking Lot ( W.O. Ezell Blvd. Spartanburg) For more information please contact Glen Cox at (864) 597-8380 Oct. 19 - Tennessee (Knoxville, TN) COST: Early Bird (Before Sept. 15th) $ 50/seat After Sept. 15th $ 55/seat) Departure Time & Place Jason Deli’s Parking Lot ( W.O. Ezell Blvd. Spartanburg) Departure Time: TBA (once game time is confirmed) Please make Check payable to : Spartanburg County Gamecock Club Mail to: P.O. Box 5146, Spartanburg, SC 29304

with questions.

The Edgefield County Bus Trip To Georgia There are fifty seats available and will be reserved on a “first come, first served” basis. The cost is $35.00 per seat. The Edgefield County Gamecock Club will provide cups, ice, plates, napkins and a variety of soft drinks and mixers. Food will not be provided. Feel free to bring coolers with your tailgating food. The bus will depart from the Johnston, S.C. municipal parking lot at a time TBD. To reserve your seats, contact Edgefield County Gamecock Club President Frank Davis at (803) 275-7056 (cell); (803) 2754786 (home) or by email: lfrankdavis@bellsouth.net.

Deadline is September 1st. Seats are likely to sell out so get in touch ASAP!

Florence County Gamecock Club Fall Rally

Wednesday, September 18 6-8 p.m.at the Floyd Conference Center at Carolina’s Hospital System; 805 Pamplico Hwy., Florence, SC 29505.

Dinner begins at 6 p.m. with Roger’s BBQ House furnishing your meal, and the program starts at 7 p.m.

AD Ray Tanner along with head baseball coach Chad Holbrook and head men’s basketball coach Frank Martin will be attending along with other special guests.

Contact Club President Scat Scaturro at (843) 621-8008, or Rocky Rietkovich, Florence County Gamecock Club Board of Directors, Public Relations Officer (843) 4950288.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at Roger’s BBQ House, Jernigan Law Firm, Mickey Finn’s, Crawford Law Firm or from a member of the Board of Directors.

Spartanburg County Gamecock Club – September Meeting Thursday, September 19th 7 p.m. at Spartanburg Downtown Marriott Convention Center Admission is FREE and the meeting is open to all Gamecock fans.

Guest Speaker will be Phil Kornblut, host of the syndicated radio show SportsTalk.

Phil will give us his insights and thoughts on summer practices and the 2013 football season.

Come early & listen to Phil as he broadcasts his statewide radio program LIVE from Spartanburg, 6-7pm!

Don’t forget to check the calendar on spursandfeathers. com for all upcoming Gamecock Club and athletic events.

Upcoming South Carolina Athletics Events zz Sept. 6-8 Men’s Golf: Carpet Collegiate Classic.......................................all day zz Sept. 8-10 Women’s Golf: Cougar Classic.....................................................all day zz September 6 Women’s Soccer at Clemson..................................................5:30 p.m.

Cross Country Gamecock Invitational (5K)................6 p.m.

Volleyball at Clemson......................................................................7 p.m.

Men’s Soccer vs. High Point.........................................7 p.m. zz September 7 Volleyball at Furman.......................................................................12 p.m.

Volleyball at Winthrop.....................................................................4 p.m.

Football at Georgia.....................................................................4:30 p.m. zz September 8 Women’s Soccer vs. SMU..............................................1 p.m. zz September 10 Men’s Soccer at Coastal Carolina................................................6 p.m.

Home events are bold

32 • Spurs & Feathers

September 4, 2013