Dawn Staley, the esteemed head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, made a notable appearance at Columbia’s Soda City Market during the Johnsonville Charity Cornhole Challenge. This event, held on a Saturday morning from 9:00 to 11:00, was part of the festivities surrounding the South Carolina vs. Florida football game week. Staley teamed up with her former player, Zia Cooke, forming “Team South Carolina” to compete against “Team Florida,” represented by NFL All-Pro Jevon Kearse and WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil. The competition was not only spirited but also for a good cause, with a $10,000 prize awarded to charity.
The event was a delightful blend of sportsmanship and community engagement, drawing fans and locals to the vibrant Soda City Market. Staley’s participation underscored her commitment to community involvement and her enduring bond with former players like Cooke. The duo’s victory over their Florida counterparts added a celebratory note to the day’s charitable endeavors.
Staley’s presence at the event also highlighted her deep roots in the community. As a resident of West Columbia, she has been honored with a proclamation declaring May 4th as Coach Dawn Staley Day, recognizing her contributions to the city and the sport.
Overall, Dawn Staley’s involvement in the Johnsonville Charity Cornhole Challenge at Soda City Market exemplified her dedication to philanthropy, her strong community ties, and her ongoing influence in the world of sports.
