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Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/31 Happy Halloween, Championships & Awards!

By The Editor on October 31, 2011 7:01 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: we're 'wild' about Wilds, Women's Soccer claims regular season SEC Championship, Halloween fun, Swimming & Diving sweeps Clemson and prepares to host Tennessee, and more!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN, GAMECOCKS!

Scream mask.jpg

Check out some fun Halloween memories and favorite costumes from Gamecock student-athletes here.

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: SEC Players of the Week (SECDigitalNetwork.com) *Freshman of the Week- Brandon Wilds*

Football: Brandon Wilds with solid starting debut (ESPN SEC Blog)

Football: Wilds spurts into stardom (GamecockCentral.com)

Football: Wilds thing: Brandon Wilds helps carry Gamecocks to win in first career start (The Daily Gamecock)

Football: Gamecocks grind it out, topple Tennessee (GoGamecocks.com)

Football: Gamecocks take winning road record to Arkansas (The Greenville News)

Football: Gamecocks Still Win Despite Change in Plans (SEC Digital Network)

Football: USC shuts down Vols for another road win (GamecockCentral.com)

Football: Carolina game balls (GamecockCentral.com)

Women's Soccer: Women's soccer scores SEC title (The Daily Gamecock)

Men's Basketball: Harris growing up on, off the court (GoGamecocks.com)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Women's Soccer. Kayla Grimsley and Christa Neary Named SEC Players of the Week

Cross Country. Gamecock Cross Country Competes at SEC Championships

Men's Basketball. Andy Demetra With Anthony Gill

Football. Brandon Wilds Named AgSouth Athlete of the Week

Football. Ingram a Semifinalist for Two Awards

Football. Wilds Named Freshman of the Week

Football. Gamecocks Climb Into Top 10

Football. South Carolina vs. Tennessee Post-Game Notes

Football. Gamecocks Defeat Tennessee 14-3 To Improve To 7-1 For The Season

Men's Soccer. Men's Soccer Travels To No. 9 UCF On Tuesday

Women's Basketball. New Season-Ticket Holders Can Select Their Seat at Exhibition

Men's Golf. Gamecock Men's Golf Wraps Up Fall Season in Fifth at Bridgestone Collegiate

Women's Golf. Gamecock Women's Golf Claims Fourth at Landfall Tradition to Conclude Fall Season

Volleyball. Coach Swanson Weekly Interview

Swimming & Diving. Swimming & Diving Teams Sweep Clemson In Dual Meet

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

We got a lot of great answers to our fill in the blank on Facebook and Twitter, "Brandon Wilds' performance on Saturday was ___________." What would you say?

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Gamecock Volleyball Shows Off Pumpkin Carving & Decorating Skills

Gamecocks' Favorite Halloween Costumes, Candy & More!

This Week's Home Events: Five Events on Friday

"Inside the Roost" Tonight: Discussing NCAA Presidential Initiatives

Gamecocks Turn Turnovers Into Turnovers...Say That Three Times Fast

Spurs Up Play of the Game: Connor Shaw's Game-Winning TD

Brandon Wilds Impressive in Debut as Gamecocks' Starter

VIDEO OF THE DAY

The Gamecock Productions highlight video feature from the win over the Vols on Rocky Top:

ROOSTER CROWS

South Carolina's defense has been stellar over the last six contests, as it has allowed only 58 points, an average of 9.7 points per game.

The Gamecocks own the nation's fifth-longest road winning streak with now six straight true road wins, a school record. Only Virginia Tech (12), Oklahoma State (9), Oregon (9) and Stanford (7) have longer current road winning streaks than the Gamecocks.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Check out members of the Gamecock Volleyball team showing off their pumpkin creations. More here.

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Gamecock Volleyball Shows Off Pumpkin Carving & Decorating Skills

By Brittany Lane on October 31, 2011 5:57 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Written by Assistant Media Relations Director Koby Padgett

The South Carolina volleyball team decided to have some fun last week, holding a pumpkin carving/decorating competition for bragging rights and more on the team. Each player had their own pumpkin to enter, trying to win in three different categories: MVP (Most Valuable Pumpkin), Scariest and Most Creative. Then the team was divided into groups of three or four, competing in the categories Most School Spirit and Best Pumpkin.

The esteemed judging panel of the volleyball staff looked over the pumpkins set up on the deck behind the office and deliberated for a time on each category. One group-decorated pumpkin stood out from the rest and swept the team categories. The Cocky-decorated pumpkin entered by junior Brandi Byers and sophomores Lindsey Craft, Juliette Thevenin and Frankie Vain won the judges' hearts.

When it came time for the individual awards, the competition was fierce. While one three-way entrant was creative, it did not top the fully-painted and carved piece by redshirt freshman Kellie Schmidt. Her black-based work with peace signs all around claimed that prize.

The scariest pumpkin competition would have had some tough competition if the group-designed pumpkins were allowed. But only one individual truly came up with a scary design: a very toothy and menacing design from freshman Hanna Forst.

While many great pumpkins entered the competition, only one could be named the MVP. And this being the volleyball team, the pumpkin painted like one of the team's game balls took home the top prize. Juliette Thevenin put together that artwork to win the award and become the only three-time winner in one day.

The squad took most of the pumpkins back home, but one stayed out on the Park Street steps leading into the Volleyball Competition Facility. When the team came back from its weekend travels, the "headless baby" design was still sitting in place.

Check out a slideshow of all the ladies' great pumpkins:

Volleyball hosts two home matches this weekend. Friday vs. Ole Miss at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday vs. Alabama at 1:00 p.m. Promotions info

Gamecocks' Favorite Halloween Costumes, Candy & More!

By Brittany Lane on October 31, 2011 3:06 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Happy Halloween, Gamecock Nation!

Leading up to the spooky day we asked several Gamecock student-athletes about favorite childhood Halloween costumes, fun trick-or-treating memories, favorite candy and more. Power Rangers, football players, and the Scream mask were all popular among this bunch. Check it out!

Bradlee Baladez - Men's Soccer, Sophomore
"My favorite costume was when I was probably about eight I was the red Power Ranger...Another year I was Spiderman for Halloween and I had a silly string web. When my friend opened the door for trick-or-treating I sprayed him in the face with it. It was pretty funny."

Power Rangers.jpg

Terrence Campbell - Football, Senior
"I always dressed up as an athlete, I always loved football so I would always want to dress up as a football player... It was fun being in Atlanta and going to Fright Fest at Six Flags with my friends. We'd play pranks sometimes on other schools in high school or egg folks, but just being kids and having fun."

Michael Flach - Swimming, Junior
"Best costume I ever had was one time I dressed up as a really old man. I had the mask and everything. It scared my little sister. She was really little and it scared her every time I wore it so I had a lot of fun with that. I was about 10 and she was about six... I always liked just going to all the houses getting candy then going back again to get the good candy a second time."

Stephon Gilmore - Football, Junior
"Most of the time I was a football player. One time I was Michael Vick, Jerome Bettis, Deion Sanders, a lot of different football players."

Markeshia Grant - Women's Basketball, Senior
"My favorite costume was definitely being a cheerleader."

DeVonte Holloman - Football, Junior
"I was either the red or white Power Ranger for about five years in a row."

Alshon Jeffery - Football, Junior
"I loved the Scream costume with the blood running out of it."
"In the neighborhood where we used to go trick-or-treating there was a man who played the chainsaw man. So when kids would go through the neighborhood he'd crank up a blower instead of a real chainsaw and chase everyone. It was funny but scary."

T.J. Johnson - Football, RS Junior
"My favorite costume was being Chipper Jones or some kind of football player."

Johnna Letchworth - Equestrian, Sophomore
"My favorite costume was being Angelica from the Rugrats."
"When I was 10 there was one house we trick or treated at that had this rock in front of the house that's 17 feet tall. It's huge. A kid jumped off the top of it in a costume and chased me and my friends around. You couldn't see his face. It was the scariest night of my life."

Kelcy Quarles - Football, Freshman
"My favorite costume was the "Scream" mask, but what was so good about it was that it had the plastic covering on it and it had food coloring that looked like blood and you could squeeze it and blood would come out on the mask. I loved it; I still have it."
"I was outside one time, it was me, my brother, and his friends and with them being older than me they were trying to joke me around. So I went to the closet and got [the mask], told my daddy what I was about to do, and we set them up. They were walking towards the woods and I climbed up in a tree and they looked up and they just looked at me in the mask and they all took off running."

Scream mask.jpg

And.... The winner for favorite Halloween candy???

Drum roll please....

Reese's peanut butter cups!

Skittles and Snickers came in 2nd and 3rd, respectively, in our super-scientific poll.

Enjoy and be safe trick-or-treating tonight and send in any photos of a Gamecock-themed costume, jack-o-lantern or decoration to gamecockathletics@gmail.com to be included in our Halloween Facebook album!

This Week's Home Events: Five Events on Friday

By Brittany Lane on October 31, 2011 1:13 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

THIS WEEK IN GAMECOCK COUNTRY...

We've got a stacked line-up of home events this weekend! Men's Basketball will lead things off on Thursday evening with their first competition of the season, an exhibition game against Kentucky Wesleyan. Women's Basketball will also host an exhibition game, taking on Limestone on Friday. Friday is a big day of events as Equestrian hosts Georgia at One Wood Farm, Swimming & Diving will take on Tennessee at Carolina Natatorium/Blatt P.E. Center, Men's Soccer will take on conference rival Kentucky at Stone Stadium for Senior Night, and take your appetite to the Volleyball Competition Facility for $1 Hot Dog Night as the Gamecocks host Ole Miss. Volleyball will be in action again Sunday at 1:00 p.m. vs. Alabama for Youth Day and Teacher Appreciation Day. As with every away football game, our official watch party is at Buffalo Wild Wings! This week's party is at the 4500 Devine St Buffalo Wild Wings location. Kick-off at Arkansas is 7:15 p.m. ET with the watch party starting with the pre-game radio show at 4:00 p.m.

Vance Benson will be among the Men's Soccer seniors participating in Senior Night Friday

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Men's Basketball vs. Kentucky Wesleyan - 7:00 p.m.
-First chance to see the 2011-12 Gamecocks in action
-Official team posters
-Exhibition game - Free Admission

Friday, November 4, 2011

Equestrian vs. Georgia - 1:00 p.m.
-Official team posters
*Equestrian takes on rival Georgia after going 1-1 on the weekend with a win over SMU and a tiebreaker loss to New Mexico State.

Swimming & Diving vs. Tennessee - 2:00 p.m.
-Official team posters
-The second of just four home meets this season
*The Gamecocks are coming off a sweep of Clemson last weekend.

Men's Soccer vs. Kentucky - 6:00 p.m.
-Fan Appreciation Night
-Faculty Appreciation Night
-Senior Night
*The Gamecocks currently lead Conference USA with just two games remaining - Tuesday on the road at UCF and this final regular season game vs. Kentucky.

Volleyball vs. Ole Miss - 7:00 p.m.
-$1 Hot Dog Night
-First 100 fans receive rally towels
-Youth League & camper reunion
-Boys & Girls Club Night; Big Brothers Big Sisters Night
-Facebook Friday- Show a coupon from the Volleyball fan page for a prize

Women's Basketball vs. Limestone - 7:00 p.m.
-First opportunity to see the Gamecocks in the 2011-2012 season
-Official team posters
-Exhibition game - Free Admission
-Pregame seat selection - new season ticket holders can choose their reserved seats for the season

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Buffalo Wild Wings Official Watch Party: Football at Arkansas - 7:15 p.m.
-4500 Devine Street location
-Party starts with pre-game radio show at 4:00 p.m.
-Official team posters, schedule cards and enter to win items
-MyCarolina Alumni Association members get a 10% discount on food items when they show their card at the watch party

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Volleyball vs. Alabama - 1:00 p.m.
-Youth Day- Face tattoos and a sign-making station to support the Gamecocks
-Teacher Appreciation Day- Show teacher ID for a Gamecock prize pack
-Twitterific Sunday- Mention @GamecockVolley on gameday for a prize
-Post-match autographs

Season tickets are available for Men's and Women's Basketball via GamecocksOnline.com.

"Inside the Roost" Tonight: Discussing NCAA Presidential Initiatives

By Brittany Lane on October 31, 2011 10:48 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

The Presidential initiatives announced last week by the NCAA will be the major topic of discussion on tonight's "Inside the Roost" radio show. University of South Carolina President Harris Pastides will join Athletics Director Eric Hyman and host Derek Scott on the show to discuss the initiatives and their implications. Some of the proposed changes include more stringent academic standards, including a minimum APR score for post-season eligibility, and student-athlete welfare measures, including additional athletics financial aid.

Courtney Newton, Women's Basketball student-athlete and President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), will also join the discussion to add the student-athlete perspective on the initiatives.

Tune in to "Inside the Roost" from 7:00-8:00 p.m. ET on 107.5 FM The Game or listen online. "Inside the Roost" airs every Monday.

Gamecocks Turn Turnovers Into Turnovers...Say That Three Times Fast

By Brittany Lane on October 29, 2011 11:59 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

There were two key moments into tonight's game that could have turned the game into something much different for the Gamecocks... but the defense would answer with two huge plays to keep the momentum in Carolina's favor.

The second half was off to an inauspicious start for the Gamecocks after a personal foul penalty. Two plays later, Connor Shaw would be intercepted by Prentiss Waggner, who scampered all the way down to the SC 2-yard line before he was tackled. The Vols seemed poised to take the lead but on their second play from scrimmage, D.J. Swearinger snatched a pass out of the air to return possession to the Gamecocks and set up the clutch third quarter scoring drive that would take 11:35 off the clock and give SC a 14-3 lead.

In the fourth quarter the offense would cough up another turnover, as the Vols recovered a fumble by freshman Brandon Wilds. But, on their very first play, freshman QB Justin Worley heaved it into double coverage where All-SEC corner Stephon Gilmore came down with the interception.

When you find yourself faced with adversity... "Win Anyway."

Spurs Up Play of the Game: Connor Shaw's Game-Winning TD

By Brittany Lane on October 29, 2011 11:43 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

The Gamecocks dominated the third quarter against the Vols, eating up 11:35 off the clock and marching 98 yards to the end zone on 20 plays. Connor Shaw capped the drive with a five-yard, diving score that would give Carolina its final 14-3 lead.

We put the Spurs Up Play of the Game up for a fan vote on Facebook and the fans made their choice clear with over 320 votes in less than an hour for Connor's touchdown.

Brandon Wilds Impressive in Debut as Gamecocks' Starter

By Brittany Lane on October 29, 2011 11:01 PM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

A Heisman-candidate running back out for the season and a true freshman who began the season fifth on the depth chart making his first collegiate start on the road in the SEC.

No worries... just time to "Win Anyway."

AP Photo/ Knoxville News Sentinel,Amy Smotherman Burgess

Head Coach Steve Spurrier and running backs coach Jay Graham both knew what they had in the freshman from Blythewood, praising his work ethic and abilities all week.

Brandon Wilds racked up 168 total yards (137 yards rushing on 28 carries, 3 catches for 31 yards), including 51 yards on the game-winning 98-yard drive in the third quarter that was capped by five-yard touchdown by Connor Shaw.

Great job, Brandon! Go Gamecocks!

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/28 Bring on the Vols

By The Editor on October 28, 2011 4:42 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: Bring on the Vols!, coverage from yesterday's SEC Basketball Media Day, Swimming & Diving takes on Clemson for the last time ever, Women's Soccer heads to try to capture the SEC title outright, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: No. 14 South Carolina, Tennessee relying on young players to step up (The Washington Post)

Football: One game, and one game only: South Carolina adamant it is focused just on Tennessee (The Daily Gamecock)

Football: Kendall's gameday prediction for USC-UT (GoGamecocks.com)

Football: Five Keys to Victory: Tennessee (TheBigSpur.com)

Women's Soccer: SEC "Five Questions": Shelley Smith (SECDigitalNetwork.com)

Women's Soccer: SEC glory in sight for soccer team (GoGamecocks.com)

Women's Basketball: Gamecocks take prediction to heart (GamecockCentral.com)

GAMECOCKS IN THE PROS

Cornerback Munnerlyn helps fuel Panthers' fresh start (The Republic)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Women's Soccer. No. 22 Gamecocks Travel To No. 18 Gators In SEC Finale

Equestrian. Dekko's Point Lifts Gamecocks Over No. 9 SMU

Basketball. SEC Basketball Media Day Sights & Sounds

Women's Basketball. Gamecock Women's Basketball at SEC Media Day

Men's Basketball. Gamecock Men's Basketball at SEC Media Day

Men's Golf. Gamecocks Set to Conclude Fall Schedule at Bridgestone Golf Collegiate

Football. Gamecocks Travel to Tennessee Saturday

Swimming & Diving. Gamecock Swimming & Diving Set to Face Rival Clemson for Final Time

Volleyball. Gamecocks Close Tough Stretch at Kentucky, Tennessee

Women's Golf. Gamecocks Head to Landfall Tradition to Close Out Fall Schedule

"Inside the Chart" with Andy Demetra - Pre-Snap Reads

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Safe travels, everyone! If you're not heading to Knoxville, come on out to the Buffalo Wild Wings Official Watch Party (10056 Two Notch Rd - Northeast location)

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Behind-the-Scenes with the Gamecocks at SEC Basketball Media Day

Swimming & Diving: Gamecocks Ready for Bittersweet End to Clemson Rivalry

Catching Up with Tori Gurley, Life in Green Bay

Coaches Support Building Construction Project Making Progress

"What Channel is the Game On?" South Carolina at Tennessee Edition

South Carolina Athletics 2010-11 Annual Report Available in Digital Format

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Highlights and behind-the-scenes at yesterday's SEC Media Day with Gamecock Basketball:

ROOSTER CROWS

Women's Soccer senior Kayla Grimsley is the only active player in the SEC with over 100 career points and is seventh on the NCAA active career points list.

Alshon Jeffery needs just 50 yards to match Kenny McKinley's record as the all-time leader in receiving yards (2,781). Alshon only needs three touchdown catches to tie Sidney Rice for all-time touchdown receptions at 23.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Check out another spooky Gamecock photo today from Justin Dixon! We've been featuring them all week and we'll post the best submissions on our Facebook page on Halloween! Send yours in to gamecockathletics@gmail.com, whether it's a Gamecock costume, jack-o-lantern, decorations, send it our way!

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com! A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Behind-the-Scenes with the Gamecocks at SEC Basketball Media Day

By Brittany Lane on October 27, 2011 10:10 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

One of the markers of the official start of basketball season is in the books as SEC Media Day was held in Birmingham, Alabama, today.

Each program is represented by their head coach and one student-athlete. Darrin Horn, Dawn Staley, and senior student-athletes Malik Cooke and Markeshia Grant were on hand to talk to the media, take photos and film interviews in preparation for the Gamecocks' upcoming season.

Check out behind-the-scenes photos from the day below:

Every SEC school participates in Media Day, broken up into four sessions, each about two hours long, with three schools assigned to each session. This year the Gamecocks joined Florida and Arkansas for the final session of the day. The participants go through a rotation of several rooms at the Wynfrey Hotel in Birmingham. The Gamecocks spoke to print media and local TV, the SEC's own staff for a live stream on the SEC Digital Network, filmed interview segments for the league's various broadcast partners (ESPN, FOX Sports South, CSS) for use during the season, spoke to Sirius/XM radio, took still photos for ESPN, and more.

Videos of our interviews in the media room are available on GamecocksOnline.com All-Access.

Among other topics, Coach Staley discussed the team's great chemistry and strong post-season chances. She praised the team's veteran leaders implementing their own "buddy system" to help acclimate the new members of the team and says it did wonders for the team. Coach Horn discussed the great potential for Malik Cooke to lead the team and how facing some tough challenges this spring actually helped bring the team closer together. A lot of media were interested in hearing about newcomers Anthony Gill, Damien Leonard and Brenton Williams, who are all doing well with a few weeks of practice now under their belts.

The event takes a great deal of planning and organization on the part of the conference office. SEC staff members work throughout the day to keep everyone on schedule and moving smoothly through the rotation of different stations.

We kept fans in the loop via Twitter throughout the day and took a moment for Malik to give Gamecock Nation a special hello.

Malik Cooke at Media Day.JPG

Highlight video:

Men's Basketball will host an exhibition game vs. Kentucky Wesleyan on Nov. 3 at 7:00 p.m. Women's Basketball will take on Limestone in an exhibition game the following night, Nov. 4, at 7:00 p.m. Both games are at Colonial Life Arena. Season tickets for both teams are still available via GamecocksOnline.com.

Swimming & Diving: Gamecocks Ready for Bittersweet End to Clemson Rivalry

By Brittany Lane on October 27, 2011 9:56 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Written by student assistant Rebecca Duensing

This weekend will be the final showdown between South Carolina and Clemson, not on the football field, but in the pool. A series that dates back to 1923 will come to an end as Clemson has decided to phase out their Swimming and Diving programs at the end of this season. We caught up with some members of our South Carolina squad to find out what the rivalry meant to them.

"For me, it's been one of the biggest meets, every single year," said senior swimmer Mallory Cage. "We've had swimmers get their best times in the middle of the season, which is unheard of almost and it's always the most exciting meet."

Cage said they plan months in advance to face their rival and while it is sad to see the rivalry come to an end, she hopes it will go out with a bang - a big Gamecocks win.

A packed house at the last full meet between the two programs held at Carolina in 2010. For this year's meet, the Diving portion will be in Columbia and the swimming in Greenville.

For senior swimmer Ryan Connolly, Clemson is the biggest meet of the year besides SEC's because there's so much anticipation leading up to it. Not many meets are as intense as the rivalry meet, and that intensity is not always just between the swimmers. Connolly's favorite part of the rivalry is the huge crowd that comes and gets involved cheering. While it'll be sad to lose that rivalry, he said, "it'll be fun to beat them one last time."

Senior swimmer Lindsey Olson and junior diver Rylan Ridenour also agreed that it's a highly anticipated meet because they get so excited and revved up. Ridenour said it gives him the motivation to train a little bit harder in preparation.

Olson reflected on the a favorite memory in the series from her freshman year, saying, "Our swim meet was incredible. It was home and the seniors were just revved up and we blew them away."

Cage still remembers recording her best time of the season in the 200m breaststroke that year, along with a few other Carolina swimmers in the same event to give the Gamecocks an edge.

"It was just so exciting because it was the turning point in the meet and we were like 'we've got this,'" said Cage. "I remember looking across the pool and [the Clemson team] were all sitting down."

Looking to this year's meet, Olson has bittersweet feelings saying that, "it's kind of sad, being a senior and it's their last year of being a program. It's pretty exciting though because it'll be good to end on a win." Ridenour predicted that "the scores are going to be high, and it's going to be a good time."

The diving portion of the meet will be held on Friday, October 28th at 6:30 p.m. in the Carolina Natatorium at Blatt P.E. Center. The swimming portion will be Saturday, October 28th at 12:00 p.m. at the Westside Aquatic Center in Greenville, S.C.

Catching Up with Tori Gurley, Life in Green Bay

By Brittany Lane on October 26, 2011 7:52 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Former Gamecock wide receiver and current Green Bay Packer Tori Gurley stopped by football practice today. We caught up with him to see how things are going. Gurley signed with Green Bay as an undrafted free agent this summer and after training camp was signed to the team's practice squad. NFL teams can sign eight players to their practice squad in addition to their 53-man roster.

"Everything is going great. We're undefeated. I'm getting better as a player and just waiting on my opportunity to get called up to make some plays on the field," said Gurley. "A lot of guys got sent home and I take a lot of pride in [the practice squad]. I come to work every day to help those guys get better because I know if I give them my all when it comes to game time they're going to be able to benefit from it as well as myself because I'm going against one of the top defenses in the NFL on a daily basis."

Gurley is adjusting well to life in the NFL and says the experience of being at Lambeau Field is incredible.

"It's the mecca of football. [Former Packers head coach] Vince Lombardi is the face of the NFL, the Super Bowl Trophy is named after him. Just walking through that tunnel and those hallways, you can almost hear him talking, 'be a better player, work hard and do whatever it takes to win.'"

Life in Green Bay took a little bit more adjustment for a kid raised in the South. He's enjoying the amazing cheese and says the Packers do a great job of feeding the team at the facility, but there is one drawback - "There's no Bojangle's," Gurley said, laughing, adding that he'd be going straight to the Bojangle's beside Williams-Brice after practice.

Fortunately Gurley isn't the only Southern guy up in Wisconsin. Several other former SEC players are on the team as well. The Packers boast 13 SEC players on their active roster.

"Derek Sherrod [Mississippi State], Pat Lee [Auburn] and Randall Cobb [Kentucky], we all hang out and watch the SEC on Saturdays," said Gurley, who says he's glued to the TV every week to watch the Gamecocks play.

"I miss the atmosphere and hanging out with my teammates," said Gurley. "We were a very close-knit team last year and those guys were like my brothers. When I left I felt like it was something that had to be done for me financially but I miss those guys. I love them to death, especially the receiving corps."

His favorite memory as a Gamecock?

"Winning the SEC East title down at Florida. It just felt great to beat them at home and that plane ride home, just being in the locker room, hearing Coach Spurrier cheer as well as all of my teammates. It's a moment that I'll never forget for the rest of my life."

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up:10/26 Ready for Basketball SEC Media Day

By The Editor on October 26, 2011 4:31 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: Coach Spurrier and Stephon Gilmore named to additional watch lists, Football continues prep for going to Rocky Top, junior Rylan Ridenour was named SEC Male Diver of the Week, Basketball gets ready for SEC Media Day tomorrow, and more!

Keep up with all the action at tomorrow's basketball SEC Media Day via our Twitter page (@SpursUpBlog) and the SEC Digital Network website. Seniors Markeshia Grant and Malik Cooke will be representing the Gamecocks' women's and men's teams at SEC Media Day. Tweet us your questions for them or leave them in the comments!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: Fatherly advice benefiting Quarles (TheBigSpur.com)

Football: Video - The Basics: Steve Spurrier shows his plan against a Cover 2 Defense (SEC Digital Network)

Football: Spurrier on Tennessee: "It's Gonna Be a 'Down-to-the-Wire' Ball Game" (WLTX)

Football: Gamecocks come to Rocky Top to battle Volunteers (FOX News)

Football: USC to face Palmetto State native QB Worley (Anderson Independent Mail)

Football: USC players meet, discuss task of repeating as SEC East champions (The Post and Courier)

Basketball: Hoops Media Day Is Here (SEC Digital Network: SEC "Insider" Blog)

Volleyball: Volleyball prepares to travel to Kentucky, Tennessee (The Daily Gamecock)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Football. Spurrier, Gilmore Named to Lists

Equestrian. Equestrian Ranked Fourth in Latest Coaches Poll

Baseball. Teams Set For 2011 Garnet & Black World Series

Women's Soccer. Women's Soccer Weekly Report

Women's Basketball. Women's Basketball Announces Two Fan Trips This Season

Men's Soccer. Gamecocks Suffer Non-Conference Loss To No. 4 UNC

Swimming & Diving. Ridenour Named SEC Diver of the Week

Swimming & Diving. Coach Moody Press Conference

"Inside the Chart" with Andy Demetra - Stephon Gilmore, facing a freshman Vols QB, and a look at stats, including this good nugget: "Watch For... The big play. In 7 games, Tennessee has allowed 6 plays from scrimmage of 60 yards or longer. That ties for the most in the nation."

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

We want to make sure fans can participate in SEC Media Day too, so send in any questions for Markeshia Grant or Malik Cooke to us on Twitter or in the comments here on the blog!

tweet-sec media day questions.jpg

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Coaches Support Building Construction Project Making Progress

"What Channel is the Game On?" South Carolina at Tennessee Edition

South Carolina Athletics 2010-11 Annual Report Available in Digital Format

Protecting the Value of TV and Radio Rights in Sports

From "Inside the Roost", Jay Graham Speaks on Lattimore, Wilds

Gamecock Baseball Alumni Reflect on Program's Growth and Success

New iPad App Takes Carolina Football Film Study High-Tech

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Linebacker Shaq Wilson is our latest Gamecock Spotlight. Get to know more about the junior from Florida:

ROOSTER CROWS

South Carolina junior Rylan Ridenour has been named the SEC Male Diver of the Week with the highest score in the SEC so far this season. Ridenour has now earned SEC Diver of the Week honors three times in his career.

A win over Tennessee would give the Gamecock football senior class 30 wins (7 in 2008 and '09; 9 in '10 and 7 in '11), a new school record for wins in a four-year period.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Check out another great Gamecock jack-o-lantern from Samuel Tucker! Send in your Gamecock-themed Halloween photos (any great football player or Cocky costumes out there?) to gamecockathletics@gmail.com and we'll feature the best ones in a special album on our Facebook page.

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Coaches Support Building Construction Project Making Progress

By Brittany Lane on October 26, 2011 3:20 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Construction at the Athletics Village at the Roost continues to make progress. AD Eric Hyman, Executive Associate AD Kevin O'Connell, who oversees facilities, and other staff members recently got a tour of the Coaches Support Building and an update from the architect.

Marc Warren (center) of JHS Architecture (Jenkins, Hancock & Sides-Architecture) discusses the progress at the Coaches Support Building

The Coaches Support Building will house offices for the majority of our teams' staffs, with the exception of football, men's and women's basketball, volleyball and baseball, whose offices will remain at their facilities. The building is three stories and 68,000 square feet. It will also bring several departments under one roof, including the Business Office, Compliance, Gamecock Club & Development, Administration, Media Relations, Ticket Operations, Marketing, Operations and Facilities & Event Management.

From left: Kevin O'Connell, Ann Derrick (Project Manager, Facilities Planning and Construction Department at Carolina), and Eric Hyman on the 3rd floor balcony area of the Coaches Support Building overlooking the Athletics Village with Williams-Brice in the background.

The building is the other cornerstone of the Athletics Village that will complement the already complete Dodie Anderson Academic Enrichment Center. The building is currently projected to be completed this spring. The landscaping around the Athletics Village is projected to begin in January 2012.

Conceptual image of the Coaches Support Building set to be complete in spring 2012.

"What Channel is the Game On?" South Carolina at Tennessee Edition

By Brittany Lane on October 26, 2011 12:51 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Our weekly "what channel is the game on?" post continues with your #13 Gamecocks on the road at Tennessee. Every week we'll bring you this post to try to help out those in Gamecock Nation who can't make it to the game in person.

This week shouldn't be too hard to find as the Gamecocks are taking on the Vols on ESPN2 at 7:15 p.m. ET. The game will also be available nationwide online at ESPN3.com (depending on your internet service provider). ESPN's Mark Jones, Ed Cunningham and Jessica Mendoza will be on hand to call the action.

Game Information:
Who: #13 South Carolina at Tennessee
When: Saturday, October 29, 2011, 7:15 p.m. ET
Where: Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, TN
TV: ESPN2, ESPN3.com
Radio: Gamecock IMG Sports Network

While we don't know the exact channel number for every local ESPN2 channel across the country, we've included a few below. Remember to check your local listings for the actual channel number in your area.

Local Channel Listings for ESPN2 (leave us a comment if you see a different channel so we can update our list):

Time Warner Cable

Columbia, SC     Channel 27
Florence, SC     Channel 28
Myrtle Beach, SC     Channel 26
Summerville (Charleston), SC     Channel 27

DirecTV     Channel 209
Dish     Channel 144
AT&T Uverse     Channel 606
Charter Cable     Channel 33

If you miss the original airing of the game or just want to re-watch the game (Who wouldn't? Especially if it's a Carolina win!) catch the re-broadcast of the game on Sunday, October 30, at 8:00 p.m. on SportSouth following The Steve Spurrier Show at 7:30 p.m. The replay also airs on Mondays at 1:00 p.m. and Wednesday at 11:00 p.m.

In addition to television, hear from your very own Gamecocks Todd Ellis, Tommy Suggs and Terry Cousin on the Gamecock IMG Sports Network radio broadcast. Gamecock football games are available on dozens of affiliates throughout South Carolina (click here for a list). The game is also available via satellite radio (Sirius 220/XM 200). For those headed to Knoxville the in-stadium radio frequencies for our broadcast are: 98.1 FM (primary) and 101.5 FM (secondary).

Fans anywhere in the country can listen to the Gamecock radio broadcast of the game with a premium account on GamecocksOnline.com All-Access.

South Carolina Athletics 2010-11 Annual Report Available in Digital Format

By Brittany Lane on October 26, 2011 12:38 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Each year South Carolina Athletics produces an annual report evaluating and recapping the past year, including a look back at each team, facilities, development and more. This year that report is available online in digital format. Click here to view the report online.

It really was an impressive year for the Gamecocks with so many "firsts" that we've talked about several times here on the blog and great academic success as well. Enjoy looking back over the past year and keep cheering for an even better 2011-12 from your Gamecocks.

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up:10/25 Tennessee Week is Underway

By The Editor on October 25, 2011 6:46 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: video and quotes from Monday's practice and today's football press conference, Men's Soccer takes on North Carolina tonight, Gamecocks in the NFL update, another spooky fan photo, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: Gamecocks prepare for Worley (ESPN SEC Blog)

Football: Gamecocks closing in on SEC East Division title (The Greenville News)

Football: Bruce Ellington beginning to make major impact on the field (The Daily Gamecock)

Football: South Carolina at Tennessee (CBSSports.com)

GAMECOCKS IN THE PROS

Gamecocks in the NFL (GamecockCentral.com)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Women's Soccer. Women's Soccer Returns To National Rankings

Men's Basketball. Gamecock Men's Basketball Holds After School Fan Experience At Fort Jackson

General News. NCAA Announces Graduation Success Rate

Football. Steve Spurrier's Weekly Press Conference Quotes & Videos

Football. Gamecocks Return to Practice Fields Monday

Football. Gamecocks and Hogs Set to Kick at 7:15 ET

Baseball. South Carolina Baseball To Hold Garnet & Black World Series

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Only four more days!

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Protecting the Value of TV and Radio Rights in Sports

This Week's Home Events: Men's Soccer Takes on #2 UNC

Women's Soccer Preps for Meaningful Senior Day on Sunday

From "Inside the Roost", Jay Graham Speaks on Lattimore, Wilds

Gamecock Baseball Alumni Reflect on Program's Growth and Success

Baseball Letterwinners Share Favorite Carolina Memories at Alumni Weekend

New iPad App Takes Carolina Football Film Study High-Tech

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Men's Soccer senior Danny Cates in the Gamecock Spotlight:

ROOSTER CROWS

Men's Soccer head coach Mark Berson is aiming for his 450th career win tonight vs. UNC. Berson would be only the eighth Division I coach to reach the 450-win milestone.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

We're showing off your best "spooky" Gamecock photos all week and we'll collect the best submissions into one big Halloween album on Facebook. Keep 'em coming to gamecockathletics@gmail.com!

Here is Ericka Hammett and her roommates showing off their Gamecock spirit with a Gamecock jack-o-lantern and their spurs up!

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Protecting the Value of TV and Radio Rights in Sports

By The Editor on October 25, 2011 5:06 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Remember when a press conference or a news clip was just that .... News? Back in the era of three channels of black and white televisions, times were much simpler.

A simpler time... for television rights at least!

In today's age of media coverage, those same three or four local channels still battle fiercely for coverage but they are now battling sports talk radio, internet message boards, blogs, Twitter, Facebook, and 24 hour cable sports channels. With the dramatic rise in coverage, so too has been the rise of broadcast and content rights issues.

In today's media world, the media outlet is paying for the right to be the exclusive provider of a particular category of content. For example, the SEC has sold its television game broadcast rights to CBS and ESPN collectively. At South Carolina we have sold our radio game broadcast rights to WNKT 107.5 FM The Game. With the sale of those rights comes the subsequent protection of those rights. However, the policies and agreements put in to place are not intended to diminish editorial coverage but rather protect the commercial value of the asset.

Let's look at a few examples.

Example #1 Football Game on ESPN

South Carolina is playing Team B at 7:15 PM on ESPN. First of all, since CBS has the priority in the SEC pecking order, ESPN can only begin their broadcast once the exclusive CBS window is closed at 7 PM ET. The CBS exclusive window is not only great exposure for the premier SEC game of the week, it also fetches a much higher monetary value.

Fast forward to the end of the game. Alshon Jeffery caught a game-winning touchdown pass from Connor Shaw after a five minute 4th quarter drive. While local TV stations and websites can post the highlights from footage they captured from the game, they are required to use no more than three minutes of clips and they may not use the broadcast footage. Therefore if the local website wanted to post video he/she recorded from the ESPN broadcast of the entire final five minute drive, they would be in violation of the SEC's and ESPN's rights.

As you can see, within these media agreements the press is able to report and cover the game and sport, but there is a fine line between reporting the news and capitalizing on content owned by someone else.

Example #2 Coach Appearance on Local Radio

At the University of South Carolina, we have sold our radio broadcast rights to WNKT 107.5 The Game. Not only does The Game have the exclusive rights to broadcast our games on the radio, but they also carry our coach's call-in shows. Protecting the call-in shows can sometimes become problematic.
For example, if a local radio show requests a head coach to come on their show and discuss his/her recent success, the coach can agree but he/she can only be on for five minutes. Due to our contractual arrangement a coach may not regularly participate in another radio show as the primary feature of that show for a period longer than five minutes.

The contract exists to protect the rightsholder. If a competitor to the Flagship station were to be able to have a particular coach on their show regularly for an extended period of time, the value of the coach's call-in show would be significantly reduced.

These examples are intended to shed a little light on the complicated world of managing media and broadcast rights. As the pressure to compete increases around the nation, all schools must maximize the value of their assets and make wise business decisions.

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up:10/24 Women's Soccer Records, First and Honors

By The Editor on October 24, 2011 6:00 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: Women's Soccer senior Kayla Grimsley sets a new career points record and the team is guaranteed at least a share of their first regular season SEC Championship, Coach Berson goes for 450 wins and Men's Soccer looks to upset #2 UNC, Football comes off bye week ready to prep for the Vols, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: Spurrier speaks on Sunday (TheBigSpur.com)

Football: Shaw starting to settle in with Gamecocks (The Greenville News)

Men's Basketball: Cancer awareness hits home for duo (GoGamecocks.com)

Men's Basketball: Darrin Horn's 4th Annual Ladies Clinic (GamecockCentral.com)

Men's Soccer: South Carolina finds way to keep C-USA lead (Soccer America)

Women's Soccer: Kayla Grimsley sets career record for points at South Carolina (The Daily Gamecock)

Women's Soccer: SEC Soccer Players of the Week (SECDigitalNetwork.com)

Women's Soccer: Grimsley has goals in mind (GoGamecocks.com)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Volleyball. Coach Swanson Press Conference

Men's Soccer. Men's Soccer Set To Host No. 2 North Carolina On Tuesday

Men's Soccer. Gamecocks Earn 4-3 Win In C-USA Match At FIU

Women's Soccer. Kayla Grimsley Named AgSouth Athlete of the Week

Women's Soccer. Kayla Grimsley And Ariane Lukens Earn National Honors

Women's Soccer. Grimsley Sets School Points Record In South Carolina's 3-1 Win

Women's Golf. Gamecocks Climb to 17th on Final Day of SEC/Pac-12 Challenge

Football. Gamecocks and Hogs Set to Kick at 7:15 ET

Football. Gamecocks Ranked 14th in Both Major Polls

Women's Tennis. Alawi Falls in ITA Regional Quarterfinals

Swimming & Diving. Gamecocks Sweep Georgia Tech in Home Opener

Men's Basketball. Men's Basketball Hosts Fourth Annual Darrin Horn Ladies Clinic

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

This Week's Home Events: Men's Soccer Takes on #2 UNC

"Inside the Roost" Tonight: Darrin Horn, Cara Howley

Women's Soccer Preps for Meaningful Senior Day on Sunday

From "Inside the Roost", Jay Graham Speaks on Lattimore, Wilds

Gamecock Baseball Alumni Reflect on Program's Growth and Success

Baseball Letterwinners Share Favorite Carolina Memories at Alumni Weekend

New iPad App Takes Carolina Football Film Study High-Tech

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Highlights from the Women's Soccer 3-1 win over Arkansas on Senior Day yesterday, including Kayla Grimsley's record-breaking goal to give her the new career points record at Carolina. The SEC-leading Gamecocks are now guaranteed at least a share of the regular season SEC Championship. They can win the title outright with a win or a draw on the road against Florida on Friday.

ROOSTER CROWS

Kayla Grimsley earned several honors after her record-breaking performance Sunday. She was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week and was selected to the Top Drawer Soccer National Team of the Week along with being named the Gamecocks' AgSouth Athlete of the Week. Freshman Ariane Lukens earned her first career national honor being selected as a CS360 Primetime Performer after scoring her first two career goals at LSU on Thursday.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's fan photo is from Mary Anne Hinton at the Tennessee game in 2009. Here are Brooklyn, Ashley & Mary Anne in their Halloween get-ups! We're going to give a special edge to "spooky" Gamecock fan photos this week, so send them on in!

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

This Week's Home Events: Men's Soccer Takes on #2 UNC

By Brittany Lane on October 24, 2011 4:06 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

THIS WEEK IN GAMECOCK COUNTRY...

Men's Soccer headlines our home events in Gamecock Country this week taking on No.2-ranked North Carolina on Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. Students will receive double student rewards points and free pizza and the first 500 fans will receive pink rally towels in support of our Kick for the Cure breast cancer awareness. Men's Soccer has won seven of their last eight games and are currently in first place in Conference USA. Coach Berson earned his 449th career victory in the Gamecocks' win over FIU on Saturday, meaning he will go for his landmark 450th win vs. the Tar Heels. Football comes off the bye week to go on the road to Knoxville to take on the Vols Saturday. If you're not going to the game, come on out to the Buffalo Wild Wings Official Watch Party at the Northeast location to cheer on the Gamecocks.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Men's Soccer vs. #2 North Carolina - 7:00 p.m.
- Kick for the Cure Game to support Breast Cancer Awareness -Pink rally towels for the first 500 fans
- Student Night- Double Rewards Points & Free Pizza
- 107.5 The Game "Halftime at Halftime" promotion
- Game preview

Carolina currently sits atop the Conference USA standings with a league-leading 5-1-0 record in conference play. The Gamecocks have won seven of their last eight games and are currently on a three-game win streak. Coach Berson now has 449 career victories and will look for his 450th vs. the Tar Heels.

Senior Danny Cates is in the Gamecock Spotlight:

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Junior Gamecock Club Halloween Party - 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Riverbanks Zoo
-Official team posters and schedule cards

Friday, October 28, 2011

Old Navy Appearance - 1:00-3:00 p.m.
140 Harbison Blvd at Columbiana Station
Cocky and the cheerleaders will be on hand helping Old Navy celebrate the launch of their team gear line, including the Gamecocks.

Swimming & Diving vs. Clemson - 6:30 p.m. (Diving portion)
-Official team posters

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Buffalo Wild Wings Official Watch Party:
#14 South Carolina at Tennessee - 7:15 p.m.

-Official team posters, schedule cards and enter to win prizes from Gamecock Athletics, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Midlands Buick, GMC dealers.

If you're not traveling to watch Carolina football on Saturday, make the short trip and watch the game at Buffalo Wild Wings. This week we'll be at the Northeast location. Carolina Alumni Association members receive a 10% discount on all food items (excludes alcohol) during the watch party when they show their card.

Buffalo Wild Wings Official Watch Party:
Buffalo Wild Wings Northeast
10056 Two Notch Road (next to Lowe's)
Columbia, SC

The fun begins with the live broadcast of the Gamecock Radio Network pregame show starting at 4:15 p.m. Kickoff is at 7:15 p.m.

"Inside the Roost" Tonight: Darrin Horn, Cara Howley

By Brittany Lane on October 24, 2011 11:49 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Joining host Derek Scott and AD Eric Hyman on tonight's "Inside the Roost" radio show (7:00-8:00 p.m., 107.5 The Game) are men's basketball head coach Darrin Horn and Cara Howley, redshirt freshman outside hitter on the volleyball team.

Men's basketball is in the midst of pre-season practice and will head to SEC Media Day in Birmingham on Thursday. Volleyball is coming off a three-set sweep of Mississippi State last Friday before hitting the road this weekend to take on Kentucky and Tennessee.

Make sure to catch "Inside the Roost" every Monday night from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on 107.5 The Game for weekly insight into Gamecock Athletics with Derek Scott and AD Eric Hyman along with weekly guests.

Women's Soccer Preps for Meaningful Senior Day on Sunday

By Brittany Lane on October 22, 2011 11:38 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

As Women's Soccer prepares to host Arkansas on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. in the final regular season home game of the year, we talked to the seniors about what Senior Day and potentially their last opportunity to play in a game at Stone Stadium means to them. The seniors will be joined by their families and loved ones before the game to be honored on the field.

Starting line-ups at Stone Stadium, home sweet home for the soccer seniors.

Natalie Aaron:

"To me, it is a celebration of the journey we as a senior class have been on for the past four years. It represents our class's achievements of making a name for our program and writing our place in history. I could not have asked for a better group of seniors and feel so blessed to have gotten to experience this with them. Stone Stadium is by far one of the most elite complexes in the nation. We are so spoiled with our field and fans. Without them, this experience would not have been complete. To them, thank you for all the support you have provided us over the past four years. We truly appreciate each and every one of you."

Ellen Fahey:

"It means the end of a great 4 years here at South Carolina. I have been so blessed with the friends I have made on this team especially all the seniors. I could not have asked for a better group of girls to spend 4 years with. This potentially being my last game at Stone Stadium brings an end to all the great memories and victories that we as a team have had here, memories that I will carry with me the rest of my life. I am excited I get to end those memories with such an amazing team!!"

Ali Glemser:

"It means a bittersweet end to the four years I've been a Lady Gamecock. Bitter because it will potentially be the last game I ever play on this field, and sweet because I'm honored to end my soccer career at USC beside such amazing girls."

Kayla Grimsley:

"It means the world. The fans here at this stadium and this university are the best I have experienced anywhere in the four years I've played. It's a bittersweet feeling knowing that I may never get to play in front of these fans again. I'm ready to see what's in store in the future, but I will forever miss Gamecock Nation."

Lolly Holland:

"I have had the most amazing 4 years here at Carolina. It has been an honor and a privilege playing in front of Gamecock Nation and these outstanding fans. It is such a bittersweet feeling playing at Stone Stadium for potentially the last time ever. I am so proud to be a GAMECOCK and I couldn't have asked for a more INCREDIBLE group of teammates and coaches to share this journey with."

Roya Mojarab:

"It means being done with all four years, all those years of good times and bad, building a family with people I will never forget, another step in life."

Maria Petroni:

"This potentially being our last ever home game makes Sunday a very special game. Playing soccer with all of these girls, especially our senior class, has been one of the best experiences of my entire life. I will never forget these four years, and I will miss every second of it when I am gone. It will be an honor to play with my team on our home field, in front of our home crowd, for possibly the last time of our careers."

Kortney Rhoades:

"It's both sad and exciting. Knowing how far the senior class has come as a whole and how much we have contributed to the program is such a great feeling. But also knowing that this could be my last game at home is so upsetting, this team has been my family for the last four years and not seeing the girls and coaches as often is going to be a hard thing to deal with. But it's exciting to move on to a new chapter of my life knowing that I've given everything I had to these girls that I both look up to and hold so close to my heart. I'm going to miss this so much."

Jocelyn Spurrier:

"It's the bittersweet finality of 4 years of the best memories I've had in my life, shared with best friends that will now be a part of the rest of my life."

From "Inside the Roost", Jay Graham Speaks on Lattimore, Wilds

By Brittany Lane on October 21, 2011 2:36 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Written by South Carolina Athletics student assistant Rebecca Duensing.

On Monday night's "Inside the Roost" radio show Athletics Director Eric Hyman, assistant football coach Jay Graham and host Derek Scott covered a wide variety of topics ranging from Marcus Lattimore, Brandon Wilds, enjoying a bye week, and more.

When Marcus got rolled up and went down in the fourth quarter vs. Mississippi State, Coach Graham said he knew right away it was going to be bad news. Graham said that injuries like Lattimore's happen when players aren't looking, "if he had been carrying the ball, he would have been able to lift up his leg, but he didn't see it coming."

Even though Marcus can't make a direct impact on the field, that hasn't stopped him from watching film, coming to meetings, and continuing to lead the team. Graham knows Marcus hasn't skipped a beat. He said Marcus' reaction was, "ok, now I'm going to get myself ready for next season." Even though he's been in the business a long time, Hyman said "there aren't many people cut from the same piece of cloth."

Simply put, "he's just special."

In light of Marcus's injury, true freshman Brandon Wilds is expected to fill the starting role at running back. Graham praised Wilds, saying, "He really runs the ball well and has picked up the offense." He also stressed that the biggest thing for a freshman is picking up the protections and understanding coverage.

Graham tells all of his players, "you've always got to be ready because you never know how many plays you're going to get." Wilds has been impressive on the field ever since fall camp and has been working to adjust to the outstanding defensive lines the Gamecocks face in the SEC.

Fortunately the Gamecocks get a breather this weekend. They find themselves not only on a bye week, but the university's fall break. Hyman thinks the break is "just what the doctor ordered." The level of play is "pretty intense, and sometimes it's good to have a little reprieve to get your batteries recharged and get reinvigorated and get back at it," said Hyman. The team has the chance to go home for the weekend to "recharge and get some of momma's meals," said Graham. However, none of "momma's meals" for the coaches who will use the off week to hit the road recruiting.

The Gamecocks have five more games to go, and it's not an easy schedule, but Hyman is confident that "they're teams we can have success against." Scott pointed out that he hasn't seen "too many surprises" in terms of wins and losses across the SEC. Graham agreed and said that the season has "pretty much played out the way we thought it would, wish we could've gotten that Auburn game, but we're still leading in the East. We just have to finish strong."

The Gamecocks return to play next weekend when they travel to Tennessee to take on the Volunteers on Saturday, October 29, at 7:15 p.m., airing on either ESPN or ESPN2.

Make sure to catch "Inside the Roost" every Monday night from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on 107.5 The Game for weekly insight into Gamecock Athletics with Derek Scott and AD Eric Hyman along with weekly guests.

Weekend Gamecock Events: Volleyball, Swim & Dive, W. Soccer

By Brittany Lane on October 21, 2011 2:23 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Football may be on a bye week but there is home action in Columbia every day this weekend! Come on out and cheer on your Gamecocks!

Friday, October 21, 2011

Volleyball vs. Mississippi State - 7:00 p.m. - Volleyball Competition Facility
-Dads & Daughters Night
-Facebook Friday - show the coupon on the Volleyball Facebook fan page for a prize!

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Swimming & Diving vs. Georgia Tech - 3:00 p.m. - Carolina Natatorium/Blatt P.E. Center
-Free official team posters
*One of just four home meets for the squad.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Women's Soccer vs. Arkansas - 1:00 p.m. - Stone Stadium
-Faculty Appreciation Day
-Senior Day
*It's the final regular season home game for Women's Soccer! The Gamecocks are currently in a two-way tie for first place in the SEC with Florida after a 4-1 victory over LSU on Thursday.

Gamecock Baseball Alumni Reflect on Program's Growth and Success

By Brittany Lane on October 20, 2011 8:01 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Baseball is in the air with the World Series now underway and South Carolina Baseball recently held their Alumni Weekend during fall practice. A record-high 128 former letterwinners and coaches returned to Columbia for the weekend's festivities including a golf outing and an Alumni Game at Carolina Stadium.

"It's real enjoyable to come back. For people that haven't been back here yet to see this ballpark, it's an amazing place to see, wish I had the opportunity to play in it," said former pitcher Blake Taylor (2001-02). "A lot of lasting relationships were built while I was here so it's fun to get back and visit with the guys, catch up and share old memories."

Taylor still holds the South Carolina record for saves with 21 in the 2002 season and may have been the true original "Sandstorm" fan - it was his pitching intro song in 2002.

"I was the closer and it did not get the reception that it gets today! Nobody knew what it was, everybody looked at me like I was crazy - this isn't baseball music," said Taylor, laughing. "Everybody thought I was crazy coming out to it, but now everybody loves it...I'm glad it caught on."

Catching up with friends and reminiscing on their own time at Carolina is one of the most fun parts of the Alumni Weekend for many of the participants.

"Anytime there's a chance to come back and see your former teammates and friends and the family of Gamecock Nation, it's good to get back," said All-American catcher Landon Powell (2001-04). "I just got back from the baseball season about a week ago, but I was looking forward to this weekend and getting down here to see a bunch of old buddies."

Normally behind the plate, Powell (currently in the majors with the Oakland A's) threw batting practice before the game at Carolina Stadium.

Landon Powell throwing BP. Click here to see more photos from Alumni Weekend.

While no one will ever forget the magic of Sarge Frye, Carolina Stadium has created several amazing moments of his own in just three years. The new ballpark was quite a sight for former players visiting for the first time since it opened. Chris Plummer (3B, 2000-01) gushed about the stadium.

"One word: wow. It's just amazing," said Plummer. "Everything is first class - locker room, weight room, the stands. It's really cool to be a part of."

It was also the first visit to Carolina Stadium for Ryan Bordenick (1995-98), who was named an All-American in both 1997 (DH) and 1998 (UT).

"It's absolutely amazing," said Bordenick. "I played seven years in the minor leagues and traveled around the country. This ballpark is nicer than 90% of the ballparks I played in. And that was a professional level, so they definitely did it right. I'm very proud to see the program doing well."

That same feeling of pride in the program was expressed by many of the former players, all gratified that the groundwork laid by past great teams was finally rewarded with back-to-back National Championships.

"The national recognition is nice, we've been getting that for the last decade. But when you win it once people are like, 'oh well it was about y'all's time.' But you win it back to back and they're like, 'these guys are for real.'" said All-American and 10-year MLB'er, Adam Everett (SS, 1997-98). "It's really nice to see what Coach Tanner's done. He's done it the right way. It's a lot of fun to watch them. I'm very proud to be a part of this program."

"I'm really happy for Coach Tanner. He was a joy to play under and I'm really happy that he's been so successful," said Taylor. "We got him as close as we could [national runner-up in 2002], but unfortunately we didn't win it. I'm glad he finally got over the hump and got two of them. He's the best coach in America right now."

"I played the first two years that Coach Tanner was here. We knew Carolina program was on the up with him and he's the best coach in America in my book," said Bordenick. "To see him do well, to see the performance, it makes us all feel good, that all that hard work we did in the past is starting to pay off."

"It's cool to see them win the championship. It's emotional for me even watching it on TV you feel like you had a small part in that," said Powell. "This ballpark is amazing, this program is amazing. It's just growing and growing. It's just exciting to be an alumni and see what this baseball program is accomplishing. I'm happy for all the coaches and players and I think we all feel like we had a part in it."

Indeed, they did.

Back-to-Back National Champions: 2010-2011

Baseball Letterwinners Share Favorite Carolina Memories at Alumni Weekend

By Brittany Lane on October 20, 2011 7:45 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

128 former Gamecock Baseball players and coaches were in Columbia recently for the team's Alumni Weekend. They're all incredibly proud to be a part of the program. Check out five former Gamecocks favorite memories from their time playing for Coach Tanner and South Carolina Baseball:

Adam Crisp (2006-08)

"I always remember the road trips. That's when the fellowship came in with the guys, the hotel rooms, and when we went to other people's stadiums. It was just a good experience my five years here, I had that one extra year, just being with the guys. It's not so much baseball that you miss, it's being with the guys that you played with."

Adam Everett (1997-98)

"I think more than anything it was just getting the program going, and whenever Coach Tanner was - I'm looking for the right word here so I don't get in trouble - a little more rambunctious, when he got after it more he got into us a little more. We had so many memories. It could've been the rat that ran across mine and Ryan Bordenick's room when we were in Arkansas my junior year, or the same trip when Adam [Poe] got yelled at in the locker room."

Chris Plummer (2000-01)

"Just the guys we were around, they're my best friends. We still keep in touch and that's rare, but we're really close. Winning the SEC championship in 2000 was awesome, we came up a little short of Omaha, but look at this place now; I wouldn't change it for the world."

Landon Powell (2001-04)

"First year going to World Series in 2002 and breaking that hump. Coach Tanner had been coaching 17-18 years at that point and hadn't been to the world series, so to see him get to go for the first time, knowing him since I was a kid, that was special for me, to be a part of that team when he got to go for the first time. The SEC championship in '02 was really special, the comeback against Miami we rallied all the way in the 8th inning and ended up winning."

Blake Taylor (2001-02)

"For me personally, I enjoyed getting the university back to the College World Series. I think it had been 17 years. We got the chance to come from behind and defeat Miami who was the defending national champion. I think that was probably one of the most exciting games at Sarge Frye field. And getting a chance to pitch a complete game against North Carolina and playing in the College World Series."

What are your favorite memories of these guys?

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/20 D-Line Love and Men's Basketball After-School at Pinckney

By The Editor on October 20, 2011 5:53 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition some good pub on our stout defensive line including Jadeveon Clowney and Melvin Ingram; updates from Men's Basketball practice, the latest Gamecock Spotlight, and more.

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: Ingram receives midseason honor (GoGamecocks.com)

Football: Clowney's potential no laughing matter (Anderson Independent Mail)

Football: Spurrier: Shaw learning from mistakes (GamecockCentral.com)

Football: A Wilds time for Spurrier's Gamecocks (Chattanooga Times Free press)

Football: SEC notebook: Unheralded freshman running back suddenly South Carolina's best hope (The Commercial Appeal)

Football: Butler talks special teams (TheBigSpur.com)

**Football: Why are sacks becoming scarce (GamecockCentral.com)

Men's Basketball: 'My turn' (GamecockCentral.com)

Men's Basketball: Harris returns to practice (GoGamecocks.com)

Men's Basketball: Horn gives one week update (TheBigSpur.com)

GAMECOCKS IN THE PROS

Gamecocks in the NFL (GamecockCentral.com)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Baseball. Baseball America Ranks Gamecock Recruiting Class No. 6 In The Nation

Equestrian. Equestrian Update With Coach Major

Women's Golf. Gamecocks Set to Compete Against Loaded Field at SEC/Pac-12 Challenge

Volleyball. Gamecocks Battle in Three-Set Loss to No. 13 Florida

Men's Basketball. Coach Horn Media Availability

Football. Gamecocks Practice Wednesday

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

New iPad App Takes Carolina Football Film Study High-Tech

New Twist on the "Carolina Calls" Radio Show for the Bye Week

Carolina Students to Work on ESPNU Campus Connection Production of Gamecock Volleyball Wednesday

This Week's Home Events: Volleyball Dig Pink, M.Soccer, W.Soccer, Swimming & Diving

Spurs Up Play of the Game: D.J. Swearinger's Flying Interception

Men's Basketball Newcomers Excited for Start of Practice

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Latest Gamecock Spotlight on Women's Soccer senior Kayla Grimsley

ROOSTER CROWS

The South Carolina women's golf team opens play in one of the premier tournaments in college golf on Friday as it travels to Knoxville, Tenn. to compete in the SEC/Pac-12 Challenge.The Gamecocks are playing in the event for a second-straight year. The inaugural SEC/Pac-12 Challenge was held last year at Stanford, where Carolina finished tied for 15th with a score of 912 (+60).

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Taking a break today from our usual Fan Photo submissions for a special event this afternoon! Young Gamecock fans at Pinckney Elementary School at Fort Jackson got a special after-school treat hanging out with the Gamecock Men's Basketball team!

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

New iPad App Takes Carolina Football Film Study High-Tech

By Brittany Lane on October 19, 2011 7:34 PM | 2 Comments | No TrackBacks

Coaches have been studying film for decades to grade themselves and scout opponents. Now, thanks to a new iPad application, South Carolina football coaches aren't chained to their desks or the TV screen - they've gone mobile. The Gamecock coaching staff is using the new "Road Trip" app from Dragonfly to study and grade game film right on their iPads.

Joe Lisle, Video Services Director, showing the app.

Within even just an hour after a game, coaches can have video loaded on their iPads ready to be analyzed. Consider the time after an away game. Before the app, coaches would still have film to grade once they got back to Columbia. Now with the app, some of the coaches had completely graded their film before the plane coming back from Starkville this week had even landed. In the app, both our film and opponent film is categorized by game into offensive, defensive and kicking plays. Coaches can fast forward, rewind, and pause on any clip they select.

"It's just like having a remote control in your hands," explained Video Services Director Joe Lisle, who coordinates all practice and game film for the team and manages the iPad app.

Lisle demonstrating the sketch functionality of the app

The app requires internet to initially connect to the server to retrieve the video, but coaches can then download clips directly to the iPad and watch them without a network connection, allowing for even more mobility. The app also includes a sketch functionality that allows coaches to draw out plays, blocking assignments, etc. right on the screen, then even take a screen grab image and send it in an email. Coaches are enjoying the freedom and efficiency of being able to watch film anywhere - on the plane, at home, on the road recruiting, etc. and not just here in the offices at Williams-Brice.

This particular app that debuted last spring is currently in use by just a small group of schools including South Carolina, with all of the users providing on-going feedback for the company to continually make changes and improvements. Other Carolina sports, such as men's and women's basketball, are also trying out the app.

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/19 Dig Pink & a Well-Timed Bye Week

By The Editor on October 19, 2011 6:54 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition Gamecocks look to improve during bye week, "Carolina Calls" switches it up, Volleyball "digs pink," Women's Soccer heads to LSU, four members of the Women's Tennis team are set to compete in the ITA Regional, and more!

TONIGHT AT HOME

Volleyball vs. #13 Florida - 8:00 p.m. - Dig Pink! - TV: ESPNU
-First 200 fans receive free pink Gamecock t-shirts in support of breast cancer awareness
-Cocky's Birthday Celebration: Photo opp with Cocky for the first 100 fans
-Zumba for the Cure halftime performance
-Free pizza and Double Student Rewards points for students!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: South Carolina's Bruce Ellington likely to see increased role (The Post and Courier)

Football: Spurrier: Everybody has to pick it up (ESPN College Football Nation Blog)

Football: Unity (TheBigSpur.com)

Football: No. 14 South Carolina, Spurrier try to overcome adversity during bye week (The Washington Post)

Men's Soccer: Men's soccer takes down Wolfpack (The Daily Gamecock)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Women's Tennis. Four Gamecocks Set to Compete in ITA Regional

Swimming & Diving. Coach Moody Press Conference

Men's Basketball. Coach Horn Media Availability

Football. Gamecocks Practice Wednesday

Football. Carolina Calls Heads To Sandhills

Women's Soccer. South Carolina Travels To LSU For Classic SEC Rivalry Match

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

The guys are more determined than ever!

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

New Twist on the "Carolina Calls" Radio Show for the Bye Week

Carolina Students to Work on ESPNU Campus Connection Production of Gamecock Volleyball Wednesday

This Week's Home Events: Volleyball Dig Pink, M.Soccer, W.Soccer, Swimming & Diving

Spurs Up Play of the Game: D.J. Swearinger's Flying Interception

Men's Basketball Newcomers Excited for Start of Practice

Gamecocks Participate in Light the Night Walk

VIDEO OF THE DAY

The Academics and Life Skills department in athletics holds several events throughout the year in support of our student-athletes, including this week's networking seminar for seniors:

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's fan photo is a great Gamecock family photo submitted by Tara Roberts of Charleston with her husband, Joel, and their two kids, Alahna and Ian.

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

New Twist on the "Carolina Calls" Radio Show for the Bye Week

By Brittany Lane on October 19, 2011 10:37 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

It may be the bye week but we have a fun twist on the line-up for the weekly "Carolina Calls" radio call-in show (Thursday, 7:00-8:00 p.m.) so you can still get your Gamecock football fix.

This week's show will broadcast live from a new location at Wild Wing Cafe in the Village at Sandhill (map). With the bye week being a big time for football recruiting, Coach Spurrier will be out on the road so you'll be joined by some new voices this week. Defensive line coach Brad Lawing will join host Todd Ellis on the show as well as Gamecock great and radio commentator Terry Cousin.

Cocky will also be in attendance (it's his birthday this week so feel free to wish him Happy Birthday!) so come on out to Wild Wing Cafe at Sandhill Thursday for the show, airing from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on the Gamecock IMG Sports Network (click here for affiliates) and GamecocksOnline.com All-Access (premium).

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/18 Bruce Ellington, Man of the Day?

By The Editor on October 18, 2011 10:31 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition Men's Soccer shuts out NC State, another award for the Gamecocks as Courtney Forcucci wins SEC Diver of the Week, clips from today's football press conference & post-practice comments, Volleyball gets set for their Dig Pink match against Florida, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Bruce Ellington seems to be the man of the day!

Football: Ellington becoming a jack-of-all trades (The Post and Courier)

Football: Ellington earns honor for hoops, football (GoGamecocks.com)

Football: The bigger man (GamecockCentral.com)

Marcus Lattimore-related articles:

Football: Players take Lattimore news hard (GoGamecocks.com)

Football: Gamecocks aren't out of East race despite loss of Marcus Lattimore (The Daily Gamecock)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Men's Soccer. Gamecocks Earn 2-0 Shutout Against NC State

Football. Gamecocks Practice Tuesday Afternoon

Football. Steve Spurrier's Weekly Press Conference Quotes & Videos

Swimming & Diving. Forcucci Named SEC Diver of the Week

Volleyball. South Carolina Hits SEC Midway Point vs. Florida, Mississippi State

Softball. Gamecocks Finish Fall with Three Wins

Men's Basketball. Andy Demetra With Eric Smith

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

I'm sure the HBC will have something up his sleeve!

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Carolina Students to Work on ESPNU Campus Connection Production of Gamecock Volleyball Wednesday

This Week's Home Events: Volleyball Dig Pink, M.Soccer, W.Soccer, Swimming & Diving

Spurs Up Play of the Game: D.J. Swearinger's Flying Interception

Men's Basketball Newcomers Excited for Start of Practice

Gamecocks Participate in Light the Night Walk

Crowd Raves for Dodie Anderson at Williams-Brice

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Volleyball junior setter Taylor Bruns is the feature of today's Gamecock Spotlight. Come cheer on Taylor and the team tomorrow as they take on Florida at 8:00 p.m. in the Dig Pink match!

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's photo is from Craig Johannesmeyer of himself with his wife, Catherine, at Williams-Brice... Still almost a whole more month before we have another home game!

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Carolina Students to Work on ESPNU Campus Connection Production of Gamecock Volleyball Wednesday

By Brittany Lane on October 18, 2011 3:50 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Wednesday's match is a big one for the Gamecocks as we prepare to take on #13 Florida at 8:00 p.m. It's our Dig Pink match supporting breast cancer awareness (first 200 fans receive free pink Gamecock t-shirts) including a special Zumba for the Cure halftime performance. The match is going to be nationally televised (ESPNU, 8:00 p.m.)

In partnership with the SEC, the broadcast will also be an ESPNU Campus Connection production. Eleven University of South Carolina students are integrated into the broadcast, learning alongside the ESPNU professional staff, in a variety of roles including camera operation, play-by-play, production and more. The production is a terrific opportunity for students to receive hands-on experience during a national telecast, as well as give fans watching at home a unique game perspective.

Photo by Travis Bell/Sideline Carolina

The majority of students participating are senior Broadcast majors who got involved through their professors and the "Senior Semester" class. Senior broadcast journalism student Dustin Martin is looking forward to the opportunity to work with the pros.

"I've been selected as a camera operator for the broadcast," said Martin. "It's an incredible opportunity for me because I am hoping to make a career in sports broadcasting. ESPN is the ultimate top level sport broadcasting company so being able to work side by side with them while still in school is a very exciting thing for me."

While everyone is excited about the opportunity and getting to see firsthand what goes into a live production, there are some nerves that come with going live. As Martin also pointed out, there isn't much room for error and every role is important

"I am assigned to some technical stuff (pulling cables...) things of that nature," said senior broadcast student Ashley Kuykendall. "I feel very privileged to be a part of something like this and any role would be wonderful. As a journalism student I have gotten to do many things that other students on campus won't get to do like film football games. I'm very excited to meet the crew and be a part of ESPNU."

Junior broadcast student Jarrett McDaris, who will be working with production cuing up instant replays, says he quickly recognized the potential for gaining experience to put on his resume with working on the production.

"I'm excited about the whole experience," said McDaris. "How many people can actually say they worked for ESPN on a production, and how many of those are college students? There are not many. This will be a good experience that will look good on a resume that I will send to a future employer one day."

For one student, the production is an opportunity to put 16 years of volleyball experience to good use. Also the youngest student on the project, sophomore Emily McDonnell will call on her volleyball knowledge while doing play-by-play and co-anchoring.

"This means so much to me, especially being a sophomore. I love volleyball and my goal is to end up on ESPN and being able to work with them so early is the greatest feeling in the world," said McDonnell. "I'm most excited about being on camera with professionals, especially being as educated about volleyball as I am. I feel really confident that I'll be able to do well with them."

Throughout the match senior broadcast major Alex Heaton will be working on a video feature of the entire experience that will be shown on the ESPNU Campus Connection website. She's also excited about the opportunity to work on another production after working with American Idol productions this summer. She'll get behind-the-scenes footage of the students working on the production, interviews and more for her recap piece.

So whether you're at the game Wednesday night cheering on the Gamecocks or watching at home on ESPNU, be sure to keep an eye out for the great group of Carolina students helping out on the broadcast. And send them good luck!

"I am not really nervous about anything yet," said McDaris. "I am a student that has mid-terms to study for first, so I really have not had time to be nervous. That will likely change as soon as we go live Wednesday night."

South Carolina Volleyball takes on #13 Florida on Wednesday, October 19, at 8:00 p.m. In support of our Dig Pink breast cancer awareness match, the first 200 fans will receive free pink Gamecock t-shirts. There will also be a special Zumba for the Cure halftime performance, special photo opps with Cocky to celebrate his birthday, and for Carolina students, double Student Rewards Points and free pizza.

Full list of students participating in the ESPNU Campus Connection production:

Producer: Lauren Hinnant (Senior - Broadcast)
Camera Operation: Dustin Martin (Senior - Broadcast)
Audio Assistant: Rachel Lindsay (Senior - Broadcast)
Tape Producer: Jarrett McDaris (Junior - Broadcast)
Stage manager: Ashley Burgess (Senior - Broadcast)
Utility: Ashley Kuykendall (Senior - Broadcast)
Utility 2: Harriett Ward (Grad - Journalism)
Play-by-play: Emily McDonnell (Sophomore - Broadcast)
Sideline reporter: Amanda Palacio (Senior - Broadcast)
Field reporter: Talmidge Sherman (Senior - Broadcast)
SEC recap reporter: Alex Heaton (Senior - Broadcast)

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/17 Gamecocks Rake in Weekly Honors

By The Editor on October 17, 2011 4:53 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition the streak of SEC football weekly honors continues with D.J. Swearinger and Bruce Ellington, more weekly honors for Women's Soccer as well, three Gamecock teams (Football, Women's Soccer, Volleyball) all found victory in Mississippi this weekend, both Men's and Women's Soccer lead their conferences, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: SEC Players of the week (ESPN SEC Blog) **Co-Defensive Player of the Week D.J. Swearinger, Co-Freshman of the Week Bruce Ellington**

Football: Sun shining behind cloudy horizon (GamecockCentral.com)

Football: Moving forward without Lattimore (ESPN College Football Nation Blog)

Football: USC NOTES: Ellington does a little bit of everything (The Post and Courier)

Football: Gamecocks map a road to victory (GoGamecocks.com)

Football: Carolina game balls (GamecockCentral.com)

Baseball: Mutual benefit: A wiser Meyer makes his return (GoGamecocks.com)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Volleyball. Coach Swanson Press Conference

Volleyball. Gamecocks Break Through with Four-Set Win at Ole Miss

Men's Soccer. Men's Soccer Set To Host NC State In Non-Conference Play On Tuesday

Men's Soccer. Bradlee Baladez Named AgSouth Athlete of the Week

Men's Soccer. Gamecocks Claim 3-1 Victory Over Marshall

Women's Soccer. Three Gamecocks Earn Conference, National Honors

Women's Soccer. Gamecocks Post Second Shutout of the Weekend, 3-0, at Ole Miss

Football. Swearinger, Ellington Honored by SEC

Football. Gamecocks and Vols to Kick at 7:15 p.m.

Football. Gamecocks Climb One Spot in Polls

Football. Lattimore, Coffee Out For Season

Cross Country. Gamecocks Compete at Indiana State Pre-National Invitational

Men's Tennis. Jones and Machado Finish in Round of 16 at ITA Carolinas Regional

Swimming & Diving. Gamecock Women Split with Florida State, Alabama; Men Fall to Seminoles, Crimson Tide

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Plenty of re-tweets for this Twitter update from football earlier today:

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

This Week's Home Events: Volleyball Dig Pink, M.Soccer, W.Soccer, Swimming & Diving

"Inside the Roost" Guests Tonight: Jay Graham, Sabrina D'Angelo

Spurs Up Play of the Game: D.J. Swearinger's Flying Interception

Men's Basketball Newcomers Excited for Start of Practice

Gamecocks Participate in Light the Night Walk

Crowd Raves for Dodie Anderson at Williams-Brice

VIDEO OF THE DAY

This week's Gamecock Productions video feature on the win over Mississippi State:

ROOSTER CROWS

The streak continues! South Carolina has had at least one player earn a weekly honor from the SEC for every week of the season so far. On the list this week were D.J. Swearinger (Co-SEC Defensive Player of the Week) and Bruce Ellington (Co-SEC Freshman of the Week) after their performances against Miss. State.

With their wins this weekend, Men's and Women's Soccer are both in first place in their respective conferences. The men's team is in first place in Conference USA after a 3-1 victory over Marshall on Saturday, while the women's team is in a four-way tie for first place with Florida, Georgia and LSU, all holding a 6-2 conference record.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's photo is from Willis and Jessica Whitley of little Izzie from Clover , SC, showing off her touchdown cheer for the Gamecocks!

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

This Week's Home Events: Volleyball Dig Pink, M.Soccer, W.Soccer, Swimming & Diving

By Brittany Lane on October 17, 2011 1:55 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

THIS WEEK IN GAMECOCK COUNTRY...

Several Gamecock teams are in action at home this week. Volleyball hosts a big match against #13 Florida on Wednesday night. It's our Dig Pink match; the first 200 fans will receive free pink Gamecock t-shirts in support of breast cancer awareness. We're also celebrating Cocky's birthday this week, so the first 100 fans will have a special photo opportunity with the birthday bird. We also have a special Zumba for the Cure halftime performance. This game will air on national television, so come help us show off the great support from Gamecock fans! Volleyball will also host Mississippi State on Friday at 7:00 p.m. Men's Soccer hosts nonconference opponent N.C. State on Tuesday while Women's Soccer hosts their final regular season game on Sunday vs. Arkansas at 1:00 p.m. Both soccer squads are currently in first place in their conferences. Swimming & Diving host their first home meet of the season vs. Georgia Tech on Saturday at 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Men's Soccer vs. NC State - 7:00 p.m. - Stone Stadium
-Pom-pom giveaway
*Men's Soccer is currently in first place in Conference USA after a 3-1 win over Marshall on Saturday.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Volleyball vs. #13 Florida - 8:00 p.m. - Volleyball Competition Facility
-Dig Pink match: Pink shirts for the first 200 fans to support the fight against breast cancer
-Cocky's Birthday Celebration: Pictures with Cocky for the first 100 fans
-Zumba for the Cure halftime performance
-Free pizza and Double Student Rewards points for students!

Friday, October 21, 2011

Volleyball vs. Mississippi State - 7:00 p.m. - Volleyball Competition Facility
-Dads & Daughters Night
-Facebook Friday

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Swimming & Diving vs. Georgia Tech - 3:00 p.m. - Carolina Natatorium/Blatt P.E. Center
-Free official team posters
*One of just four home meets for the squad.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Women's Soccer vs. Arkansas - 1:00 p.m. - Stone Stadium
-Faculty Appreciation Day
-Senior Day
*Women's Soccer is in a four-way tie for the SEC lead with Florida, Georgia and LSU with all four teams holding a 6-2 conference record. The Gamecocks face LSU on the road Thursday before returning home for this final regular season home game vs. Arkansas.

Men's and Women's Basketball begin play soon! Season tickets are available via GamecocksOnline.com.

"Inside the Roost" Guests Tonight: Jay Graham, Sabrina D'Angelo

By Brittany Lane on October 17, 2011 12:58 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Joining AD Eric Hyman and host Derek Scott tonight on "Inside the Roost" are assistant football coach Jay Graham and Sabrina D'Angelo, freshman goalkeeper for the Women's Soccer team.

Women's Soccer is coming off another weekend sweep, beating both Mississippi State and Ole Miss on the road to move into a tie for first place in the SEC. They go on the road to take on LSU in Baton Rouge on Thursday and return home for their final regular season home game vs. Arkansas on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. ET.

Tune in tonight and every Monday to 107.5 FM The Game to listen to "Inside the Roost" from 7:00-8:00 p.m. ET. You can also listen online!

Spurs Up Play of the Game: D.J. Swearinger's Flying Interception

By Brittany Lane on October 15, 2011 10:19 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

In the fourth quarter of Saturday's game at Mississippi State, the Gamecocks found themselves holding on to a 14-10 lead after a clutch touchdown catch by Alshon Jeffery. Mississippi State had driven into SC territory and had just earned another first down on a Vick Ballard rush. On 1st and 10 from the SC 32-yard line, the Bulldogs attempted a long pass down the sideline, but D.J. Swearinger comes flying in to pick off the ball and return possession to Carolina. The athletic play would help seal the win as the Gamecocks would hold on to the final possession and end the game on a safety for a final score, 14-12.

The Gamecocks will enjoy their bye week this week before returning to the field on October 29 on the road at Tennessee.

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/14 Bring on the Bulldogs

By The Editor on October 14, 2011 7:07 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition the Gamecocks head to face the cowbells, eight players were listed on Phil Steele's mid-season All-America and All-SEC teams, Swimming & Diving prepares to take the plunge, and more!

THIS WEEKEND AT HOME

Saturday, October 15

Official Watch Party: Football vs. Mississippi State - 9:00 a.m.
Buffalo Wild Wings
5570 Sunset Blvd
Lexington, SC

Men's Soccer vs. Marshall - 7:00 p.m.
-Boy Scout Night
-Verizon bandana giveaway

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: Sophomore QB Shaw leads No. 15 South Carolina on the road against Mississippi State (The Washington Post)

Football: Gamecocks hope to build off solid offensive performance (Anderson Independent Mail)

Football: Behind enemy lines: Five Questions with the Reflector (The Daily Gamecock)

Football: USC ready to come out firing (Anderson Independent Mail)

Football: Melvin Ingram 'ready to roll' vs. Miss. State (NBC Sports)

Football: On the road again: Gamecocks face pivotal three-game swing away from Columbia (The Daily Gamecock)

Football: With a sophomore quarterback now behind the wheel, Gamecocks prepare to pack their bags (The Post and Courier)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Men's Soccer. Men's Soccer Set To Host Marshall On Saturday

Men's Soccer. Coach Berson Press Conference

Men's Soccer. UCF Match Rescheduled For Nov. 1

Football. Steele Announces Midseason All-Stars

Football. Gamecocks Travel to Mississippi State Saturday

Swimming & Diving. Gamecocks Set to Open 2011-12 Season Against Florida State, Alabama

Men's Tennis. Two Doubles Teams Advance to Round of 16

Baseball. South Carolina Baseball Weekend Scrimmage Schedule

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Almost!!!

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

"Inside the Roost" Radio Show Talks Hoops with Head Coach Dawn Staley

"What Channel is the Game On?" South Carolina at Mississippi State Edition

Headed to Starkville for Football? Go Cheer on Women's Soccer on Friday!

Men's Basketball Newcomers Excited for Start of Practice

Gamecocks Participate in Light the Night Walk

Crowd Raves for Dodie Anderson at Williams-Brice

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Video of the Day is probably an understatement, we'll go ahead and designate this Video of the Month! We wanted to get 10,000 views by Friday and Gamecock Nation blew right past that - the video has over 11,700 views as of this post!

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Check out today's adorable fan photo submitted by Richard Edgerton, Jr.!

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

"Inside the Roost" Radio Show Talks Hoops with Head Coach Dawn Staley

By Brittany Lane on October 13, 2011 7:05 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Written by South Carolina Athletics student assistant Rebecca Duensing

On Monday night's "Inside the Roost" radio show Athletics Director Eric Hyman, Women's Basketball Head Coach Dawn Staley and host Derek Scott previewed the upcoming basketball season.

Though the fall has flown by and it might seem a bit early to be talking hoops, with a new rule implemented by the NCAA last year, teams can now start practice forty days before their first game (with 30 total practices allowed). The team began practice last Monday, October 3. Coach Staley said that the change is a welcome one for both the coaches and the players who "were chomping at the bit to get the season started."

The Time is Now:

The program has added several new faces but still maintains strong senior leadership. Staley believes that the senior leadership allows the younger players a chance to grow off the court and because of that relationship, things "on the court are moving a lot smoother and we're much further along than we've ever been in our program."

At the Auburn game, as part of the new "Celebrity Starters" campaign, Staley took the field to lead the "GAME.....COCKS" cheer. Hyman joked about how difficult it was to convince Staley to step out in front of 80,000. Once out there, however, Staley got "so involved and so into it," said Hyman. Her reaction? Staley said it was pretty easy getting the stadium pumped up - "when 80,000 plus are on their feet, clapping, it makes you feel good...it was exhilarating." So exhilarating that she felt tempted to put shoulder pads and a helmet on! When asked what position she'd play, Staley didn't hesitate to say "safety...because of my aggression."

Not only did Staley take center stage, but the entire Women's Basketball team was recognized during the game and also made an appearance at Gamecock Village prior to kick-off. Scott pointed out that the program is generating more visibility and awareness and Staley agreed that the program has really progressed and they're looking forward to fans coming out. She also said that she believes the program has "all the right pieces in all the right places," and hopes to take the team to the NCAA tournament.

Hyman, who has attended a few practices, agreed that "we're much better than we've been...we have a lot of potential." Staley encourages fans to stop by any of the team's practices; she feels that the team plays better when people other than the coaches are there. She also said that having fans attend "would bring some energy to our practices."

Women's Basketball faced several obstacles last year, but Staley is proud of her players for not faltering and showing how resilient they are and doesn't think it's going to stop this year. Hyman and Staley both agree that there is "something pretty special going on here at the university," and Staley is ready to "see our girls take off and do something that people aren't expecting."

Make sure to catch "Inside the Roost" every Monday night from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on 107.5 The Game for weekly insight into Gamecock Athletics with Derek Scott and AD Eric Hyman along with weekly guests.

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/13 Two Gamecock Teams Ready for Miss State

By The Editor on October 13, 2011 6:37 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition the both Women's Soccer and Football prepare to head to Starkville (come support both!), senior Ellen Fahey earns another national title, Men's Basketball starting practice, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: Spurrier likes Shaw gloved (The Post and Courier)

Football: Alshon Jeffery back on the map (Anderson Independent Mail)

Women's Soccer: Women's soccer travels to face Mississippi State (The Daily Gamecock)

Men's Tennis: Men's tennis prepares for ITA Carolinas Regional (The Daily Gamecock)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Football. Gamecocks Practice Wednesday

Football. Welcome to Williams-Brice Stadium

Equestrian. Fresno State Competition Photos Now Available Online

Women's Soccer. South Carolina Hits The Road With SEC West Matchups

Women's Soccer. Ellen Fahey Picks Up Another National Honor

Volleyball. Gamecocks Travel West to Alabama, Mississippi

Men's Soccer. Gamecocks Suffer 3-2 Overtime Loss To SMU

Men's Tennis. Men's Tennis Heads to ITA Carolinas Regional

GAMECOCKS IN THE PROS

Sidney Rice's magical hands (ESPN The Mag)

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Plenty of Lattimore tweets in response to SportsCenter and College GameDay's question!

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

"What Channel is the Game On?" South Carolina at Mississippi State Edition

Headed to Starkville for Football? Go Cheer on Women's Soccer on Friday!

Men's Basketball Newcomers Excited for Start of Practice

Gamecocks Participate in Light the Night Walk

Crowd Raves for Dodie Anderson at Williams-Brice

Shhh...Devin Taylor Quietly Leads on the Gamecocks D-Line

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Men's Basketball begins practice tomorrow! Basketball season is just around the corner!

ROOSTER CROWS

Women's Soccer is the first Gamecock team taking on Mississippi State in Starkville this weekend. If you are arriving in Starkville tomorrow, go on out to Women's Soccer Friday night at 7:00 p.m. Central time to cheer on the South Carolina Women's Soccer team against the Bulldogs first. Our goal is to outnumber the Miss State fans there and turn Starkville into Gamecock Country for Women's Soccer! Join us! More info

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's photo is from Beth Thomason:
"Here are the Thomason boys at a game when Daniel was 2 1/2 and Bennett was 5. Big Gamecock fans!!"

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

"What Channel is the Game On?" South Carolina at Mississippi State Edition

By Brittany Lane on October 13, 2011 10:46 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Our weekly "what channel is the game on?" post continues with your #13/15 Gamecocks on the road at Mississippi State. Every week we'll bring you this post to try to help out those in Gamecock Nation who can't make it to the game in person.

Last week there was still some confusion among fans trying to find the SEC Network, so we'll keep breaking it down here. The SEC Network is not just one station across the country like ESPN. It is a collection of local affiliate stations which air the SEC Network games. Click here for a list of ALL the SEC Network affiliates across the country that will air the South Carolina at Mississippi State game. Here in Columbia we have a new SEC Network affiliate this season with ABC Columbia - WOLO 25. The game will also be available nationwide online at ESPN3.com (depending on your internet service provider). The SEC Network's Dave Neal, Andre Ware and Cara Capuano will be on hand to call the action.

Game Information:
Who: #13/15 South Carolina at Mississippi State
When: Saturday, October 15, 2011, 12:21 p.m. ET
Where: Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, MS
TV: SEC Network, ESPN3.com
Radio: Gamecock IMG Sports Network

While we don't know the exact channel number for every local SEC Network affiliate across the country, remember to check this list to see if there is an affiliate network in your area then check your local listings for the actual channel number for that station.

Local Channel Listings for SEC Network (leave us a comment if you see a different channel so we can update our list):

Columbia - WOLO 25 (ABC)
Time Warner Cable         Channel 5 (Or 105 Digital, 1105 HD)
DirecTV                            Channel 25 (No alternate available)
Dish                                   Channel 25 (No alternate available)
AT&T Uverse                    Channel 2 (Channel 1002 is an alternate)

More channel listings on our Gamecocks on TV page

If you miss the original airing of the game or just want to re-watch the game (Who wouldn't? Especially if it's a Carolina win!) catch the re-broadcast of the game on Sunday, October 16, at 8:00 p.m. on SportSouth following The Steve Spurrier Show at 7:30 p.m. The replay also airs on Mondays at 1:00 p.m. and Wednesday at 11:00 p.m.

In addition to television, hear from your very own Gamecocks Todd Ellis, Tommy Suggs and Terry Cousin on the Gamecock IMG Sports Network radio broadcast. Gamecock football games are available on dozens of affiliates throughout South Carolina (click here for a list). The game is also available via satellite radio (Sirius 219/XM 199). For those headed to Starkville the in-stadium radio frequencies for our broadcast are: 88.1 FM (primary) and 102.3 FM (secondary).

Fans anywhere in the country can listen to the Gamecock radio broadcast of the game with a premium account on GamecocksOnline.com All-Access.

Headed to Starkville for Football? Go Cheer on Women's Soccer on Friday!

By Brittany Lane on October 12, 2011 5:27 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Headed to Starkville this weekend for the football game? With a morning kickoff my guess is you're probably going down the night before, so head on over to Mississippi State's soccer complex to cheer on your South Carolina Women's Soccer team against Mississippi State as well. Game time is 7:00 p.m. local time (8:00 p.m. ET) Click here to see the soccer field on the MSU campus map.

It would be pretty cool to show the strength of Gamecock Nation by having more Gamecock fans at the soccer game than Bulldog fans! Mississippi State soccer apparently averages about 500 fans per game. I know more than 500 people are traveling for football so come on out and show your support! Cheer loudly, wear your Garnet and Black, make signs, whatever you want to do, but let's show Mississippi State what we're made of!

The Gamecocks are looking for their fourth straight conference win coming off beating both Alabama and Auburn this past weekend. Let's make Starkville feel like a home game at Stone Stadium instead!

Photo Credit: Copyright 2011 Travis Bell/Sideline Carolina

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/12 Less Cowbell?

By The Editor on October 12, 2011 4:06 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: the Gamecocks are preparing to head to Starkville and deal with the cowbells, news from Men's Basketball media day, Men's Soccer looks for continued success in conference play in tonight's home match vs. SMU, and more!

***TONIGHT AT HOME***

Men's Soccer vs. SMU - 7:00 p.m.
- Life Night- Group admission for church groups
- South Carolina Army ROTC Night (includes Contracting Ceremony and presentation of colors)

RADIO NOTE
For fans traveling to Starkville, this week's radio frequencies to listen to the Gamecock IMG Sports Network radio broadcast at the game: 88.1 FM (primary) and 102.3 FM (secondary).

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: USC getting signals straight (The Post and Courier)

Football: Gamecocks and Bulldogs set for SEC tussle in Starkville (The News Tribune)

Men's Basketball: Horn likely to vary lineups (GoGamecocks.com)

Men's Basketball: Men's basketball aims to improve in 2011-12 (The Daily Gamecock)

Men's Soccer: Soccer success starts to kick in (GoGamecocks.com)

Baseball: Former players revel in titles (GoGamecocks.com)

GAMECOCKS IN THE PROS

Gamecocks in the NFL (GamecockCentral.com)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Women's Soccer. Women's Soccer Weekly Report

Women's Basketball. Doctors Rule Ball Unable to Participate at South Carolina

Track. Gamecock Track Announces 2011 Nike Coaches Clinic

Equestrian. Gamecocks Debut at No. 3 in First Poll of 2011-2012

Men's Basketball. South Carolina Men's Basketball Holds 2011-12 Media Day

Softball. Gamecocks Take Two in Rock Hill

Women's Golf. Gamecocks Ranked 20th in Golfstat Poll

Football. "Inside the Chart" blog by Andy Demetra

Football. Garcia Dismissed from Football Team

Football. Steve Spurrier's Weekly Press Conference Quotes & Videos

Football. Three Gamecocks Added To Bednarik List

General News. Light the Night Recap

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Men's Basketball Newcomers Excited for Start of Practice

Gamecocks Participate in Light the Night Walk

Crowd Raves for Dodie Anderson at Williams-Brice

This Week's Home Events: Men's Soccer Hosts Two C-USA Matches

Spurs Up Play of the Game - Alshon Jeffery's 20-Yard Touchdown

Shhh...Devin Taylor Quietly Leads on the Gamecocks D-Line

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Hopefully this video will help our fans get their Williams-Brice fix while they go a month without a home game! We heard you Gamecock Nation, here's the video!

ROOSTER CROWS

Mississippi State beat the Gamecocks four years in a row in the late nineties (1996-1999), but since 2000 the series has been all Carolina. South Carolina has won the past five meetings (2000, '01, '02, '06, '07).

A win over the Bulldogs would give Steve Spurrier his 50th win as the head coach of the Gamecocks and put him 15 games away from being the all-time winningest head coach at Carolina, a record currently held by Rex Enright (64 wins).

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's photo is from Jennifer Hancock with the following description:

"This is Jacob (3 yrs old) and from the time we pulled up to tailgate until he went to bed that night, he held that football in his arms! Loves his Gamecocks!"

Jennifer Hancock.JPG

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Men's Basketball Newcomers Excited for Start of Practice

By Brittany Lane on October 12, 2011 12:48 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

South Carolina Men's Basketball held media day Tuesday in preparation for the official start of practice on Friday. Several members of the local media came out to hear from head coach Darrin Horn as well as speak one-on-one with assistant coaches and the team.

Three new players join the Gamecocks this year, freshmen Anthony Gill (6-8 Forward, Charlotte, NC) and Damien Leonard (6-5 Guard, Greenville, SC) and junior college transfer Brenton Williams (5-11 Guard, Kissimmee, FL).

With just a couple months under their belts as students at Carolina, the three newcomers are adjusting to life as Gamecocks and are chomping at the bit to officially start practice on Friday.

"I'm very excited," said Leonard. "We've been working hard all summer and we're looking forward to it paying off and getting ready to practice in front of the coaches finally."

Over the past couple months, they've been getting used to their new surroundings like any other first-year student, little things like walking to class and being on a large campus with a lot of other students take some adjusting. (Though for Williams his answer was simple for his favorite thing about being at Carolina so far - The Dodie. "Because that's where we get breakfast, dinner and tutoring help!") With practice and the season right around the corner, the veteran members of the team have been able to provide a lot of guidance for the incoming guys.

"They've been telling me what to expect and what to get ready for and to be mentally prepared mostly more than anything," said Williams. "They told me the coaches are gonna be on us so just be prepared for it, it's normal. And just stay focused and don't lose track of what's going on in practice."

Even only being together a few short months, the team has a good bond and chemistry, the veterans mesh well with the younger guys.

"We just feel like a family and everyone is really close," said Gill. "I definitely feel like at any point I can just go to any player on the team and just tell them something personal about my life and I'll feel comfortable with that."

Team photo during Media Day

Men's Basketball begins practice Friday, October 14, with their first home contest on November 3, in an exhibition against Kentucky Wesleyan at 7:00 p.m. at Colonial Life Arena. New season tickets for basketball are available via GamecocksOnline.com. Season ticket renewals are due by October 14.

Gamecocks Participate in Light the Night Walk

By Brittany Lane on October 11, 2011 5:33 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Several South Carolina student-athletes, coaches and staff participated in last week's Light the Night walk to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The Baseball and Women's Soccer teams were there as well as student-athletes from Volleyball and Swimming & Diving and several athletics staff members.

Many staff members supported baseball associate head coach Chad Holbrook's team in honor of his son Reece, who battled and survived leukemia. The cause is close to the hearts of many on staff, including women's soccer head coach Shelley Smith, who led her team at the walk.

Check out more photos here and the video feature below.

Crowd Raves for Dodie Anderson at Williams-Brice

By Brittany Lane on October 11, 2011 10:22 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

This week's special guest to lead off the GAAME...COCCKSS cheer at Williams-Brice was none other than Dodie Anderson, one of South Carolina Athletics' largest benefactors and the namesake of the Dodie Anderson Academic Enrichment Center (nicknamed "The Dodie"). The Dodie is the cornerstone of the new Athletics Village at the Roost and is a major component of the huge facility improvements the department has been able to make.

The huge Gamecock fan from Greer, South Carolina, received a great round of applause from the crowd on hand as she was introduced. Anderson quickly showed that even in her 80's she is still as spirited a Gamecock fan as any other. She told the crowd it was "a dream come true," - she was finally a Carolina cheerleader.

Great job, Dodie, and thank you!

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/10 Honors Roll in for Gamecocks

By The Editor on October 10, 2011 4:59 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: Connor Shaw named SEC Offensive Player of the Week, Carolina moves up in the polls after the win over Kentucky, Ellen Fahey and Danielle Au of Women's Soccer win conference and national honors for their performances this weekend, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: SEC Players of the Week (ESPN SEC Blog) *Offensive Player of the Week Connor Shaw*

Football: No.15 South Carolina puts on Shaw-stopping performance to beat Kentucky (The Washington Post)

Football: Notebook: Defense holds second opponent to under 100 yards of offense (The Daily Gamecock)

Football: Steve Spurrier, Gamecocks go retro on woebegone Wildcats (The Daily Gamecock)

Football: Shaw, Gamecocks stomp 'Cats (TheBigSpur.com)

Football: Shaw confidently takes reins (GamecockCentral.com)

Football: Group Therapy: USC dominates Kentucky (GamecockCentral.com)

Women's Soccer: SEC Soccer Players of the Week (SEC Sports) *Defensive Player of the Week Ellen Fahey*

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Women's Soccer. Ellen Fahey Named SEC Defensive Player of the Week

Women's Soccer. Danielle Au Named AgSouth Athlete of the Week

Women's Soccer. Gamecocks Knock Off No. 22 Auburn, 3-1

Softball. NPF All-Star Game Feature

Football. Shaw Earns SEC Accolades

Football. Gamecocks Inch Up in Polls

Football. Shaw leads Gamecocks to 54-3 win over Kentucky

Equestrian. Choate Wins Reining Championship at Quarter Horse Congress

Equestrian. Fortune Named MVP as Gamecocks Drop Tiebreaker to Auburn

Women's Golf. Gamecocks Wrap Up Tar Heel Invitational in 11th Place

Volleyball. Gamecocks Fall in Three to Arkansas

Cross Country. Gamecocks Claim Third at Gene Mullin Furman Invitational

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

This Week's Home Events: Men's Soccer Hosts Two C-USA Matches

"Inside the Roost" Tonight: Dawn Staley, Vance Benson

Spurs Up Play of the Game - Alshon Jeffery's 20-Yard Touchdown

Pre-Game & Fan Photos: South Carolina Beats Kentucky, 54-3

Shhh...Devin Taylor Quietly Leads on the Gamecocks D-Line

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Our weekly video feature on the game, re-live the 54-3 victory over Kentucky:

ROOSTER CROWS

Connor Shaw has been named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week. The honor continues the streak of a Gamecock being among the SEC weekly honorees in every week so far this season: Rokevious Watkins (Offensive Lineman of the Week: Week 1), Melvin Ingram (Special Teams Player of the Week: Week 2, Defensive Player of the Week: Weeks 4 and 5), and Marcus Lattimore (Offensive Player of the Week: Week 3)

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's fan photo is from Chaunte Turner with the following description:

"Nothing beats having Cocky at your wedding! I got married May 21st at the Officer's Club at Fort Jackson. Pictured with me: Laura Wheeler McElveen (USC alumni), Darci Strickland (USC Alumni/WLTX anchor), Andrea Mock (WLTX anchor) and Mandi Dawkins Gilbert (USC alumni). I'm a 2007 grad of the School of Journalism."

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

This Week's Home Events: Men's Soccer Hosts Two C-USA Matches

By Brittany Lane on October 10, 2011 3:20 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

THIS WEEK IN GAMECOCK COUNTRY...

After four straight home games Gamecock Football hits the road this week to take on Mississippi State. You can join fellow Gamecocks at the official watch party at Buffalo Wild Wings. This week's party is at the Lexington location (5570 Sunset Blvd). Men's Soccer hosts two home conference matches this week looking to build on their undefeated 3-0 record in conference play.

Senior midfielder Vance Benson

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Men's Soccer vs. SMU - 7:00 p.m.
- Life Night- Group admission for church groups
- South Carolina Army ROTC Night (includes Contracting Ceremony and presentation of colors)

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Official Watch Party: Football vs. Mississippi State - 9:00 a.m.
Buffalo Wild Wings
5570 Sunset Blvd
Lexington, SC

-Official team posters and other Gamecock items will be available as well as several enter-to-win prizes
-Gamecock IMG Sports Network pre-game show begins at 9:00 a.m. for the 12:21 p.m. kickoff
- Carolina Alumni Association members receive a 10% discount on food items during the watch party when they show their valid membership card

Men's Soccer vs. Marshall - 7:00 p.m.
-Boy Scout Night
-Verizon bandana giveaway

"Inside the Roost" Tonight: Dawn Staley, Vance Benson

By Brittany Lane on October 10, 2011 3:11 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Joining AD Eric Hyman on tonight's "Inside the Roost" radio show are Women's Basketball Head Coach Dawn Staley and Men's Soccer senior midfielder Vance Benson.

With one week of practice in the books Staley will be discussing the upcoming Women's Basketball season. Benson will talk about the Men's Soccer team, which is currently undefeated in conference play (3-0) with two more home matches this week (Wednesday vs. SMU at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday vs. Marshall at 7:00 p.m.)

Tune in to "Inside the Roost" tonight and every Monday night from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on 107.5 FM The Game (you can tune in online if you aren't in the Columbia area) for the inside look from Gamecock Athletics.

Spurs Up Play of the Game - Alshon Jeffery's 20-Yard Touchdown

By Brittany Lane on October 8, 2011 6:20 PM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

It would have been easy to choose any of South Carolina's seven touchdowns today as the Spurs Up Play of the Game, or any of the four interceptions or two fumble recoveries on defense.

So on a day when the Gamecocks racked up 639 yards of total offense and 54 points, I decided to go with the scoring play that gave Carolina a lead they would not relinquish - Alshon Jeffery's 20-yard touchdown reception on the opening drive.

On 1st and 10 from the UK 20-yard line, Connor Shaw found Alshon in the south end zone for the touchdown to cap off an 80-yard scoring drive. It was a great ball from Connor to the outside and Alshon made the catch look easy.

"It was a great day today. They tried to get me the ball a lot so I just tried to make things happen whenever my number was called," Alshon said after the game. "I just ran a regular route and once I broke out I saw where the defensive back was. Connor made a great throw and I made a great catch."

Alshon finished the game with 6 receptions for 95 yards and two touchdowns. The two touchdown receptions gave him 19 total career receiving touchdowns, moving him into a tie for second place in the Gamecock record books with Robert Brooks, Jermale Kelly and Kenny McKinley.

(AP Photo/Rich Glickstein)

Pre-Game & Fan Photos: South Carolina Beats Kentucky, 54-3

By Brittany Lane on October 8, 2011 5:35 PM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

Fun gameday in Columbia today as our Gamecocks beat Kentucky, 54-3. Thank you to all the fans who came out to the game today! You can also check out these these photos on our Facebook page.

The Gamecocks hit the road to take on Mississippi State next Saturday at 12:21 p.m. ET, live on the SEC Network. Carolina won't play in Williams-Brice again until November 12th against Florida. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.com for just one of the Gamecocks' three remaining home games, The Citadel on November 19th.

Gamecock Softball Excited to Take On the Pros

By Brittany Lane on October 7, 2011 4:05 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

The Gamecock Softball team will take the field Friday night for an exhibition against the National Pro Fastpitch team traveling around the country on their Back to School tour promoting softball.

There will be a few familiar faces on the field for NPF with three former SEC players on the squad coming to Columbia, Jessica Bachkora (Arkansas), Francesca Enea (Florida), and Megan Wiggins (Georgia).

Junior pitcher Audrey Broyles and senior Evan Childs both said they hope that the team's familiarity with some of the players will help them during the game, since they basically already have a scouting report on those players.

"I'm really excited to play them this year because I was actually out last season so I didn't get throw to NPF," said Broyles. "It's really cool to see girls that we played last year move on to bigger things and it's really exciting because it's the same game, the same girls we've been playing. It's the pro team, it's the all-stars, but we can hang with them. We've played those girls of that caliber."

The team is looking forward to playing the elite level players and seeing how they stack up.

"I think that we're all excited, but I think that the freshman are kind of nervous. I know I was nervous when we first played them, I didn't really know what to expect," said Childs. "We played them last year though so we know we're going to play some really good players. I hope that we compete and play to win."

This NPF game is one of several fall games for the Gamecocks as they prepare for the 2012 regular season in the spring.

"I think we're progressing really well," said Childs. "I think the team is coming together better. I think we're getting more chemistry just because there are a couple new people that have filtered in so I think that we are starting to play more and more like a team every week."

The NPF Back to School Tour comes to Columbia on Friday at 7:00 p.m. at Beckham Field for a game against the South Carolina Softball team. Individual tickets are $5 each, $3 for youth 17 and under. Season tickets for 2012 Gamecock Softball will also be available ($25 for adults and $10 for youth) and will include a free ticket for the NPF game.

"What Channel is the Game On?" South Carolina vs. Kentucky Edition

By Brittany Lane on October 7, 2011 12:22 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Our weekly "what channel is the game on?" post continues with your #14/18 Gamecocks vs. Kentucky. Every week we'll bring you this post to try to help out those in Gamecock Nation who can't make it to the game in person. (For those who can, tickets are still available via Ticketmaster.com or on gameday at the Williams-Brice box office.)

This is the first game that might be tricky for fans who sometimes still get a little confused about the SEC Network so we'll break it down here. The SEC Network is not just one station across the country like ESPN. It is a collection of local affiliate stations which air the SEC Network games. Click here for a list of ALL the SEC Network affiliates across the country that will air the South Carolina vs. Kentucky game. Here in Columbia we have a new SEC Network affiliate this season with ABC Columbia - WOLO 25. The game will also be available nationwide online at ESPN3.com (depending on your internet service provider). The SEC Network's Dave Neal, Andre Ware and Cara Capuano will be on hand to call the action.

Game Information:
Who: #14/18 South Carolina vs. Kentucky
When: Saturday, October 8, 2011, 12:21 p.m. ET
Where: Williams-Brice Stadium
TV: SEC Network, ESPN3.com
Radio: Gamecock IMG Sports Network
Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster.com or on gameday at the Williams-Brice ticket window

While we don't know the exact channel number for every local SEC Network affiliate across the country, remember to check this list for an affiliate network in your area then check your local listings for the actual channel number for that station.

Local Channel Listings for SEC Network (leave us a comment if you see a different channel so we can update our list):

Columbia - WOLO 25 (ABC)
Time Warner Cable         Channel 5 (Or 105 Digital, 1105 HD)
DirecTV                            Channel 25 (No alternate available)
Dish                                   Channel 25 (No alternate available)
AT&T Uverse                    Channel 2 (Channel 1002 is an alternate)

More channel listings on our Gamecocks on TV page

If you miss the original airing of the game or just want to re-watch the game (Who wouldn't? Especially if it's a Carolina win!) catch the re-broadcast of the game on Sunday, October 9th, at 8:00 p.m. on SportSouth following The Steve Spurrier Show at 7:30 p.m. The replay also airs on Mondays at 1:00 p.m. and Wednesday at 11:00 p.m.

In addition to television, hear from your very own Gamecocks Todd Ellis, Tommy Suggs and Terry Cousin on the Gamecock IMG Sports Network radio broadcast. Gamecock football games are available on dozens of affiliates throughout South Carolina (click here for a list). The game is also available via satellite radio (Sirius 219/XM 199). Check out the Gamecock Radio Scene Setter here.

Fans anywhere in the country can listen to the Gamecock radio broadcast of the game with a premium account on GamecocksOnline.com All-Access.

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/6 SC Prepares for Big Home Weekend

By The Editor on October 6, 2011 10:00 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition Marcus Lattimore and Melvin Ingram making a case for SEC Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, Devin Taylor is in the "spotlight", Women's Soccer continues their homestand, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: 'We support Connor, the whole offense does' (The Post and Courier)

Football: Conference superlative tracker (ESPN SEC Blog) *Marcus Lattimore and Melvin Ingram*

Women's Soccer: Women's soccer prepares to host Alabama (The Daily Gamecock)

Gamecock Cockaboose Cooking (The Chattanoogan)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Women's Soccer. Alabama & Auburn Visit The Graveyard This Weekend

Football. Gamecocks Work Out Thursday

Football. Gamecock Spotlight: Devin Taylor

Men's Basketball. Men's Basketball Injury Update

Volleyball. South Carolina Hosts SEC West Foes LSU, Arkansas

Women's Golf. Gamecock Women's Golf Travels to Tar Heel Invitational

General News. Texas A&M Welcome Video

Women's Tennis. Gamecocks Fall in Qualifying at ITA All-American

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Tickets are still available for the Kentucky game via Ticketmaster.com! Be there!

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Shhh...Devin Taylor Quietly Leads on the Gamecocks D-Line

Kentucky Gameday Program Cover: Melvin Ingram, Devin Taylor, Jay Wooten

Gamecocks Will See Familiar Face Against NPF Squad

"Inside the Roost" Radio Show Gets in Step with the Mighty Sound of the Southeast

Women's Basketball Holds First Practice of the Season

This Week's Home Events: Soccer, Volleyball, NPF All-Stars Softball, Football

VIDEO OF THE DAY

ROOSTER CROWS

Women's Soccer senior Kayla Grimsley is the only active player in the SEC with over 100 career points and is eighth on the NCAA active career points list.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's fan photo is from Davin Wise of Goose Creek, SC. Here's his story:

"My daughter, Addysen, made my day Saturday when she wanted to help cheer on the Gamecocks! She has been my good luck charm! She even has the Game - Cock cheer down as shown in the picture. Mind you she is only 2.5yrs old."

Davin Wise.jpg

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com! A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Shhh...Devin Taylor Quietly Leads on the Gamecocks D-Line

By Brittany Lane on October 6, 2011 5:24 PM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

"Shhh"

"Don't-Say-Nothin"

Those are two nicknames that Alshon Jeffery and Melvin Ingram jokingly say Devin Taylor has earned from his teammates due to his quiet nature. The 6-7, 260-pound defensive end boasts an imposing frame on the field, built long and lean for a quick pass rush and wide reach. But off the field, the young man from Beaufort, South Carolina, is calm and reserved - spending his time fishing, mud racing and other outdoor activities, playing video games, or working on computers as part of his Integrated Information Technology major.

"I don't really talk much," Taylor said, softly. "I really just play ball. They don't expect me to be the vocal leader, so I don't have to worry about that."

As the more loquacious and outgoing man on the line, senior defensive end Melvin Ingram believes their different playing styles and personalities complement each other.

"I guess it's just the best of both worlds. He's silent but his production speaks for itself," said Ingram. "Devin motivates me as well as the other defensive linemen to play hard. Devin is a tremendous player. It was no surprise to me when he made All-SEC last year."

Taylor sacks Vanderbilt QB Larry Smith

Taylor has been consistent on the field since he arrived at Carolina. After being named a Freshman All-SEC performer in 2009, he led the defensive line in tackles in 2010 with 46 stops and had the team-highs for tackles-for-loss (12), pass breakups (8), and quarterback hurries (11). He was second to only Ingram on the team with 7.5 sacks.

"When I first met Devin I felt he was a quiet and humble player, but when he gets on the field he's an animal just like Melvin," said freshman defensive tackle Kelcy Quarles. "His playing style is just different from anybody else's, I've really never seen anybody like him. He's fundamentally sound. He just flies around and makes plays."

Taylor was actually leading the defensive front in tackles again this season until Ingram collected 11 tackles vs. Auburn to move ahead. But Taylor is not one to get caught up in statistics. If he makes one play, he just wants to go out and make another one. Taylor didn't even realize it when he collected a season and career-high nine tackles against Navy, estimating that he only had maybe four or five.

"Devin has probably been our most consistent player so far this season," said defensive line coach Brad Lawing. "He doesn't have a lot of big plays but he's got a lot of tackles on the line. He's been very consistent, always doing what he's supposed to do."

A key to his consistency may be that Taylor is a highly intelligent player who prefers to play with his head first, then just let his body take over the execution. Small details such as watching an opposing lineman's feet during film study and the game help him develop a plan of attack.

"He knows every position on the d-line," said the freshman Quarles. "If we (the freshmen) are out there and get lost we look to him and he'll tell you [what to do]. I really look up to Devin. He's a heck of a player."

Quarles illustrates what most everyone feels about Taylor, including Taylor himself. He doesn't need to be expressive and loud to push his teammates. Clichéd as it may be, he truly does lead by example.

"The kids know that he's a good football player and you can lead when you're a good football player, you don't have to be real vocal. It helps, but you don't have to be," said Lawing, then adding what may be the most important element: "The kids respect him."

More on Devin:

Gamecock Spotlight: Devin Taylor

A look at mud racing, Devin came in first place with the race below:

It's Great to be a Gamecock: Devin Taylor

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/5 Time to Step Up

By The Editor on October 5, 2011 7:39 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: Freshman Kelcy Quarles steps up, Melvin Ingram takes it day-to-day, Men's Soccer wins their fourth straight match, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: Ex-Trinity star Allen Leading South Carolina defense (Ocala.com)

Football: Quarles means quality (GamecockCentral.com)

Football: Injured Ingram 'day-to-day' (The Post and Courier)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Football. Gamecocks Continue Preparations for Kentucky

Baseball. South Carolina Baseball Weekend Scrimmage Schedule

Softball. South Carolina Hosts NPF All-Stars on Friday in Weekend Action

Women's Tennis. Morgina, Stojic One Win Away From ITA All-American Main Draw

Women's Soccer. Women's Soccer Weekly Report

Men's Soccer. Coach Berson Press Conference

Men's Soccer. Men's Soccer Earns Conference USA Win At UAB

Men's Golf. Gamecocks Finish Second, Kelly Third at Rees Jones Invitational

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

What a coincidence..so are we!

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Kentucky Gameday Program Cover: Melvin Ingram, Devin Taylor, Jay Wooten

Gamecocks Will See Familiar Face Against NPF Squad

"Inside the Roost" Radio Show Gets in Step with the Mighty Sound of the Southeast

Women's Basketball Holds First Practice of the Season

This Week's Home Events: Soccer, Volleyball, NPF All-Stars Softball, Football

Pre-Game & Fan Photos: South Carolina vs. Auburn

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Check out this week's Women's Soccer weekly report as the team prepares for two home games this weekend:

http://gamecocksonline.cstv.com/allaccess/?media=268438

ROOSTER CROWS

The Men's Soccer team earned a 1-0 win on the road at UAB Tuesday night, the Gamecocks' fourth win in a row and third-consecutive conference win. This is the best start to conference play for the team since 2005 when they first joined Conference USA.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's photo is a tailgating shot from Cindy Polin in the Farmer's Market last season. From left to right: Aaron Clossman, "Mousse", Cindy Polin, Blakely Byrd

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com! A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Kentucky Gameday Program Cover: Melvin Ingram, Devin Taylor, Jay Wooten

By Brittany Lane on October 5, 2011 3:51 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

This week's gameday program features defensive linemen Melvin Ingram and Devin Taylor as well as kicker Jay Wooten on the front cover. All three student-athletes are also featured in profiles inside the program. Also included are pieces on Men's and Women's Tennis and "Carolina's Finest" is Johnna Letchworth of the Equestrian team. Check out the program at the game!

Tickets are still available for Saturday's game vs. Kentucky at 12:21 p.m. ET via Ticketmaster. Click here.

Gamecocks Will See Familiar Faces Against NPF Squad

By Brittany Lane on October 5, 2011 2:49 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

When the National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) All-Star team takes the field here in Columbia on Friday, South Carolina coaches Beverly Smith and Janelle Breneman will be seeing a familiar face.

Before arriving at South Carolina last year, Smith and Breneman coached together at the University of North Carolina where they coached Brittany McKinney, who is in her first season playing catcher for the NPF Diamonds.

"I was really happy for Brittany, B-Mack we call her, to get the nod to come play pro ball. She's just worked exceptionally hard throughout her career," said Breneman. "She was always one of those kids that stayed after to hit more and came early to get swings in. She just is one of those kids who works so hard, you're so glad that it pays off. I think her senior year didn't quite end like she would have wanted it to, getting in the tournament. So I was just thrilled that she got to continue her playing career in the NPF."

Gamecock fans might also remember some of the players they'll spot taking the field for NPF, as three women on the roster are former SEC opponents: Jessica Bachkora (Arkansas), Francesca Enea (Florida), and Megan Wiggins (Georgia).

"Any of these players are obviously playing in this league for a reason so they will be tough offensive outs for us," said Breneman. "I think the women's professional league gives our kids something to strive for...I think it's great these young ladies do a lot of traveling and come out for this school tour to promote the sport of softball."

The NPF Back to School Tour comes to Columbia on Friday, October 7th, at 7:00 p.m. at Beckham Field for a game against the South Carolina Softball team. Individual tickets are $5 each, $3 for youth 17 and under. Season tickets for 2012 Gamecock Softball will also be available ($25 for adults and $10 for youth) and will include a free ticket for the NPF game. Group tickets are just $1 each for groups of 15 or more. Contact Josh Waters at 803-777-5567 for more information on group tickets.

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/4 The Lead Ingram, Lattimore Leads Heisman Fan Vote

By The Editor on October 4, 2011 9:19 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition: Marcus Lattimore leading fan vote for Heisman (cast your vote!), Connor Shaw will start this weekend against Kentucky, Women's Basketball sets up for a great season, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: 3-Point Stance: The leading Ingram (ESPN College Football Nation Blog)

Football: SEC Heisman watch: Week 6 (ESPN SEC Blog)

Football: Gilmore OK with more man coverage (The Post and Courier)

Women's Basketball: Practice begins for hopeful great season (GamecockCentral.com)

Women's Basketball: USC builds up with Ibiam (GoGamecocks.com)

Men's Soccer: Men's Soccer open conference today (Kaleideoscope/UAB)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Equestrian. Q&A With Freshman Cody McMillion

Football. Steve Spurrier's Weekly Press Conference Quotes & Videos

Football. Shaw Named Starter For Saturday

Men's Golf. Gamecocks Finish Second, Kelly Third at Rees Jones Invitational

Women's Basketball. Women's Basketball Media Availability Videos

GAMECOCKS IN THE PROS

Gamecocks in the NFL (GamecockCentral.com)

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Click here to cast your vote for Marcus!

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

"Inside the Roost" Radio Show Gets in Step with the Mighty Sound of the Southeast

Women's Basketball Holds First Practice of the Season

This Week's Home Events: Soccer, Volleyball, NPF All-Stars Softball, Football

Pre-Game & Fan Photos: South Carolina vs. Auburn

Women's Soccer's Sisterly Connection with Kentucky

Basketball Participates in "Beat Hunger" Carnival Event

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Melvin Ingram spoke at today's weekly press conference. Hear what Melvin had to say in today's video:

http://gamecocksonline.cstv.com/allaccess/?media=268051

ROOSTER CROWS

Melvin Ingram won SEC Defensive Player of the Week for the second consecutive week this week. He also won Special Teams Player of the Week against Georgia. Three awards in five weeks may put Ingram on a record pace. The SEC hasn't kept track of who has won the most weekly awards in a season. The last two Heisman winners, Cam Newton of Auburn and Mark Ingram (no relation) of Alabama, won six and two, respectively. That makes Melvin the lead Ingram.

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's fan photo is from a Gamecock named Susan who shared her story:

"We are a group of diverse friends and family that range in age from 13 to 69 years old that come from North and South Carolina to have fun and cheer on our Gamecocks. GO COCKS!!"

Quite an impressive group! Thanks, Susan!

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

"Inside the Roost" Radio Show Gets in Step with the Mighty Sound of the Southeast

By Brittany Lane on October 4, 2011 8:39 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

By South Carolina Athletics intern Rebecca Duensing

On Monday night's "Inside the Roost" radio show Athletics Director Eric Hyman, Director of Athletic Bands Dr. Rebecca Phillips, and Gamecock Radio's Andy Demetra discussed the new direction of South Carolina's marching band.

"We couldn't be more pleased with what Rebecca Phillips has done with our band in such a short period of time," said Hyman. "I have gotten compliment after compliment, and I want her to know that for years I got criticism after criticism...we're so excited about this point going forward, as far as our band is concerned."

Originally from the Washington, D.C. area, Dr. Phillips has been at Carolina for five years and is in her first year serving as the Director of Athletic Bands. She has a rich musical background, from her military band family, her time directing high school bands, and her involvement with the upstart of the University of South Florida's marching band program. Before moving into her current position, she taught other subjects in the University of South Carolina School of Music, but said she attended every home game and is a big fan of football and basketball.

Phillips leading the pep band at Volleyball

When asked by Hyman how she felt about her "team," Phillips gushed about how enthusiastic the band is about supporting sports, what good musicians they are, and that they're "pretty smart individuals." And once you hear what they do in preparation for half-time shows, you're bound to agree.

The band begins preparation for a show two weeks prior. They rehearse Tuesday through Friday for an hour and a half, with members of the Coquettes, Color Guard, and Drum Line putting in additional hours for their extra roles. The first week, they work on the musical aspect and then the week of, Assistant Director of Athletic Bands Jamie Taylor takes the reins to work on the field formations. Taylor is the "man who puts the dots on the page...he makes it so the crowd can actually see the picture," Phillips explained. They aim to have the show together, weather permitting, the Friday before the game, but if not, they finish up Saturday. On gameday, the band arrives six and a half hours prior to kick-off to polish their performance and attend various functions around the stadium area, including the Gamecock Walk.

Dr. Phillips said that a big challenge is retention of students. The band lost about 30 graduating seniors last year, but was able to bring in enough new students to still have an overall increase in numbers. The band is up to 280 members from last year's 248. Phillips shared that, [the band's] goal is to be somewhere between 325 and 350 in the next three years, that's the goal that the President has set up for the band" and agrees that it's a good number to aim for. In terms of recruiting Phillips said that "we're really fortunate...we have some wonderful band directors at both the high school and middle school levels who have developed some wonderful programs, so there is plenty we can do within the state." There are also some out-of-state band members, most coming from Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia but also as far as California. Overall about 30 states are represented in the band.

Phillips and Hyman are both looking forward to next year with the completion of the Farmer's Market renovations. Phillips feels that it is "going to be an incredible opportunity for our fans and give us an on-campus feel," Hyman is most excited for the "sense of tradition."

In regards to the new arrangement of the Fight Song, Phillips felt like moving the C-A-R-O-L-I-N-A spell out cheer to the middle is a natural change that increases fan involvement and has been waiting to have the opportunity to make the move since she arrived here at Carolina.

Dr. Phillips thinks that with the creation of new half-time shows for each home game, the rearranged Fight Song, and the members' enthusiasm, the band can "support what is going on, and hopefully add to the environment of the game."

Make sure to catch "Inside the Roost" every Monday night from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on 107.5 The Game for weekly insight into Gamecock Athletics with Derek Scott and AD Eric Hyman along with weekly guests.

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up: 10/3 Melvin Ingram Racks Up Another Honor

By The Editor on October 3, 2011 7:30 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Catch up on the day's buzz about the Gamecocks! In today's edition Melvin Ingram earns his third SEC weekly honor in just five weeks, Gamecock Athletics preps for a weekend full of home events, Women's Basketball opens up practice, and more!

GAMECOCKS AROUND THE WEB

Football: SEC players of the week (ESPN SEC Blog)* Defensive Player- Melvin Ingram

Football: Johnson, defense move on to Kentucky (GamecockCentral.com)

Football: First look: Kentucky (The Daily Gamecock)

Women's Basketball: Welch gets push in right direction (GoGamecocks.com)

Women's Basketball: Q&A with Dawn Staley (GoGamecocks.com)

GAMECOCKSONLINE.COM NEWS

Women's Soccer. Gamecock Spotlight: Sabrina D'Angelo

Women's Soccer. Gamecocks Shutout Vanderbilt, 3-0, On National TV

Men's Soccer. Men's Soccer Continues Conference USA Play At UAB

Women's Basketball. Women's Basketball Media Availability Videos

Football. Melvin Ingram Named AgSouth Athlete of the Week

Football. Ingram Earns SEC Honors Again

Football. Carolina - Mississippi State Game Time Set

Football. Gamecocks Slip in Polls

Softball. Childs' Triple Lead Gamecocks to 5-4 Win

Baseball. Baseball Letterwinners Return For Alumni Weekend

Women's Tennis. Morgina, Stojic Set to Compete in ITA All-American Qualifying

Women's Tennis. Alawi, Pereira Win Matches on Final Day of Wildcat Invitational

Men's Golf. Scoring Updates for 2011 Rees Jones Invitational

Men's Golf. Gamecock Men's Golf Set to Host Rees Jones Invitational

Volleyball. Coach Swanson Press Conference

Volleyball. Gamecocks Drop in Three at Auburn

COCK-A-DOODLE-TWEET

Ingram for Heisman, anyone?

Follow @GamecocksOnline and @SpursUpBlog on Twitter!

SPURS UP BLOG HIGHLIGHTS

Women's Basketball Holds First Practice of the Season

This Week's Home Events: Soccer, Volleyball, NPF All-Stars Softball, Football

Pre-Game & Fan Photos: South Carolina vs. Auburn

Women's Soccer's Sisterly Connection with Kentucky

Gamecock Student-Athletes Participate in "Week of Play" Events

Basketball Participates in "Beat Hunger" Carnival Event

VIDEO OF THE DAY

Women's Soccer shut out Vandy 3-0 on national TV on Sunday afternoon at the Kick for the Cure pink game.

ROOSTER CROWS

AgSouth Athlete of the Week Melvin Ingram was also named SEC Defensive Player of the Week for the second consecutive week. Ingram recorded 11 total tackles, 8 of which were solo stops against Auburn, as well as an interception and a career-best 3.5 sacks. He is now the SEC's leader in both sacks (5.5) and tackles for loss (7.5)

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's photo was submitted by Brad of little 3-1/2 month old Larson, a little Gamecock from Liberty, South Carolina.

We've got a lot of great submissions so keep them coming! Feel free to send in your photos (any sport/season, either of you or taken by you!) with your name to GamecockAthletics@gmail.com!A lot of the best photos include some Gamecock gear and 'showing your spurs'! We'd love to share with the rest of Gamecock Nation!

You can see the entire Fan Photo of the Day series on our Facebook page!

Women's Basketball Holds First Practice of the Season

By Brittany Lane on October 3, 2011 5:49 PM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

It still seems like the fall semester just started but here we are in October with basketball season just around the corner. Women's Basketball began official practice this afternoon and there was a lot of excitement with getting started.

"I'm very excited about the season starting; we have a team full of very experienced players and not-so-experienced players. It's going to be fun meshing the two of those groups," said head coach Dawn Staley after practice. "I think overall the public is excited about our team too, which they should be, because of the progress we've had the last few years, so hopefully people will come out and get their season tickets early and make sure they get a nice seat because I do think we're going to draw a pretty good crowd with the product we're going to put out on the floor."

The team often feeds off Coach Staley's intensity and enthusiasm and senior guard La'Keisha Sutton also expressed excitement about the season getting underway.

"I'm excited about this season. Ever since last season ended I've just been looking forward to coming together with new people; we've got six new people, they bring a lot of energy and a lot of different spots on the floor. You've got shooters, drivers, defenders, rebounders. I'm excited. It should be fun," said Sutton. "We've incorporated a buddy system where [the older players] get with the new people. We text them, hang out with them, shoot with them, just constantly in their ear both on and off the court."

The Gamecocks host an exhibition vs. Limestone on Friday, November 4th, at 7:00 p.m. at Colonial Life Arena followed by their home opener on November 14th vs. Alabama A&M at 7:00 p.m. Click here to check out the full schedule. Season tickets for Women's Basketball are available now on GamecocksOnline.com for $50.00 each for reserved seating in sections 104 or 105 and general admission or four (4) for $100.00 for general admission seating.

This Week's Home Events: Soccer, Volleyball, NPF All-Stars Softball, Football

By Brittany Lane on October 3, 2011 2:27 PM | 2 Comments | No TrackBacks

We've got a full line-up of home events this weekend in Gamecock Country! Looking forward to seeing a lot of great crowds. It's Student Night at Women's Soccer on Friday. Students earn double Student Rewards points towards Under Armour gear and the first 100 students will receive free pizza. Over at Volleyball it's Facebook Friday, show a coupon from the Volleyball Facebook fan page for a prize and we'll also have free Gamecock bandanas for the first 100 fans. We have a special event Friday night as well, as the National Pro Fastpitch All-Star team returns to Columbia again this year on their Back to School tour for an exhibition game vs. South Carolina Softball. Football plays their fourth straight home game and last home game for over a month on Saturday vs. Kentucky. Women's Soccer and Volleyball close out the weekend's action on Sunday. It's Gamecock Club Appreciation Day over at Volleyball while at Women's Soccer, Jay Philips and Michael Haney from 107.5 FM The Game will be on hand for a special halftime promotion penalty kick shootout with Cocky.

Friday, October 7, 2011

Women's Soccer vs. Alabama - 7:00 p.m.
- Student Night- free pizza for the first 100 students and double rewards points
- Free pom-poms
*The Gamecocks are coming off a 3-0 shutout win over Vanderbilt and are currently 8-5 overall and 2-2 in the SEC.

Softball vs. NPF All-Star team - 7:00 p.m.
- All-Star team features former Olympians and college All-Americans
- Ray Tanner to throw first pitch
- Photo Opportunities with NCAA Baseball Trophies

Baseball Alumni Game - 7:00 p.m.

Volleyball vs. LSU - 7:00 p.m.
*Carolina is ranked 9th in the country in digs per set (as of 9/26 @ 9am)
- Life Night: Group admission for church groups
- Free Gamecock bandanas for the first 100 fans
- Alumni Weekend
- Facebook Friday- Show a coupon from the Volleyball Facebook fan page for a prize

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Football vs. Kentucky - 12:21 p.m.
- Gamecock Club Appreciation Day
- Tickets are still available via Ticketmaster.com: http://bit.ly/KentuckyTix
- Weather is forecast to be beautiful again this Saturday, sunny skies with highs in the upper 70's

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Volleyball vs. Arkansas - 1:30 p.m.
- Gamecock Club Day- High-five tunnel for members
- Girl Scouts Day- Banner competition and post-match Q & A with the Gamecocks
- Alumni Weekend
- Post-match autographs
- Twitterific Sunday- Mention @GamecockVolley on gameday for a prize

Women's Soccer vs. Auburn - 2:00 p.m.
- Boys and Girls Club Day
- Gamecock bandana giveaway for the first 100 fans
- Halftime promotion with 107.5 The Game's Jay Philips and Michael Haney in a penalty kick shoot out vs. Cocky

Check out our Gamecock Spotlight on Women's Soccer freshman goalkeeper Sabrina D'Angelo:

"Inside the Roost" Tonight: Talking Marching Band, Gamecock Club Appreciation, & Women's Soccer

By Brittany Lane on October 3, 2011 1:59 PM | 3 Comments | No TrackBacks

We've got a full slate for tonight's "Inside the Roost" radio show on 107.5 FM The Game! Three special guests will join AD Eric Hyman and host Andy Demetra this week. Rebecca Phillips, Director of Athletics Bands, will be on to talk about the Mighty Sound of the Southeast and some of the new things they've added this season. Director of the Gamecock Club Patrick McFarland will be on to talk about this Saturday's upcoming Gamecock Club Appreciation Day. Head Coach Shelley Smith will round out the show discussing her Women's Soccer team and their upcoming schedule, including two home games this weekend.

Tune in at 7:00 p.m. to 107.5 FM The Game every Monday for "Inside the Roost"!

Pre-Game & Fan Photos: South Carolina vs. Auburn

By Brittany Lane on October 1, 2011 9:03 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Thank you to all the fans at Williams-Brice Stadium today! Tough loss, but a great day of excitement nonetheless. Check out photos below from the Gamecock Walk, great tailgating, Sandstorm, and great fan shots during the game! You can also tag yourself in these photos on our Facebook page. Go Gamecocks!

Tickets are available for next week's game vs. Kentucky on Ticketmaster.com! We'd love to see another great home crowd at Williams-Brice before we go over a month without a home game! See y'all there! Go Gamecocks!

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