News Summary
Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina, has introduced its inaugural cornhole program, offering athletic scholarships to attract talent in the sport. Spearheaded by former pro player Dusty Thompson, the program aims to cultivate competitive athletes. Winthrop’s team recently excelled at the American Cornhole League’s national collegiate championship, securing multiple top finishes. The university’s innovative approach includes combining athletic scholarships with academic performance, aiming for enrollment growth while fostering a family atmosphere and future inclusivity in the program.
Winthrop University Launches Exciting New Cornhole Program
Rock Hill, South Carolina is buzzing with excitement as Winthrop University has recently taken a bold step into the world of competitive cornhole. That’s right, folks! This beloved backyard game has made its way to the collegiate level, and Winthrop is leading the charge. The university has introduced its very first cornhole program, complete with athletic scholarships aimed at attracting top talent in the sport.
A Vision Takes Flight
Dusty Thompson, a former professional cornhole player, has played a pivotal role in launching this program over the past year. He has dedicated time and effort to select all ten athletes in the team, providing them with the opportunity to earn scholarships that help make their dreams of playing cornhole at a collegiate level come true.
Just recently, these ten talented players qualified for the American Cornhole League’s national collegiate championship held in dazzling Myrtle Beach. It was a sight to behold! In an incredible display of skill, four Winthrop players found themselves competing against each other in the finals—a remarkable feat for a program just starting out.
Victory on the Big Stage
In the thrilling doubles competition, two of Winthrop’s athletes emerged victorious: Josh Quinn and Luke Bryant, both hailing from Virginia. Their determination and teamwork paid off as they defeated fellow teammates Colson Clary and Jacob Harrison to snag first place. But the wins didn’t stop there! Quinn and Bryant also claimed the top spot in the team competition, partnering with fellow players Gavin Hamann and Jaxson Remmick from Colorado.
In total, Winthrop University achieved an incredible feat at the championship by securing two first-place wins, two second-place finishes, and one third-place finish. This demonstrates the immense potential and talent within the program right from the get-go!
Making College Dreams a Reality
The athletes are overwhelmingly grateful for the scholarship opportunities provided by Winthrop, which has allowed them to pursue both their academic and athletic goals. Thanks to these scholarships, out-of-state team members are eligible for in-state tuition, reducing the cost of attendance from about $28,000 to a more manageable $14,000. This substantial financial relief opens doors for many athletes who might otherwise have considered trade schools or not pursued higher education at all.
Plans for Future Growth
Thompson has high hopes for the future of the program. While there’s currently no limit on the number of scholarships available, the focus remains on maintaining a family atmosphere within the team. Furthermore, the university is making strides to recruit female athletes, with two already onboard and more potential recruits in the pipeline.
Winthrop’s Athletic Director sees cornhole as not just a sporting venture but a strategic move to boost overall enrollment at the university. With its proximity to the American Cornhole League’s headquarters, it becomes an ideal breeding ground for future champions.
Innovative Scholarship Opportunities
It’s important to note that cornhole scholarships at Winthrop are tied to academics rather than athletics because cornhole isn’t an NCAA-sanctioned sport. All players must maintain a 3.0 GPA to keep their scholarships, creating a balance between sports and studies. Additionally, the American Cornhole League’s college championships offer further scholarship opportunities for winners, benefitting Winthrop’s champions.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Winthrop University embraces unconventional sports such as cornhole, disc-golf, and esports, the move appears to be paying off. The university has recently reported a 22% increase in new freshmen and a 17% rise in transfer students in 2023, partially thanks to this innovative recruitment strategy.
As we look ahead, athletes like Gavin Hamann and Jaxson Remmick, regarded as the pioneering stars on the cornhole team, are eager to continue participating in American Cornhole League events while representing Winthrop University. Starting as kids in local leagues, they have blossomed into formidable competitors and role models for aspiring cornhole players.
The future of cornhole at Winthrop University is not just bright—it’s loaded with possibilities for growth, scholarships, and sporting glory.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Exciting Culinary Changes at The Power House in Rock Hill with Former White House Chef Marti Mongiello
Winthrop University Breaks Ground with Cornhole Scholarships for Exceptional Athletes
Additional Resources
- Herald Online
- WPDE
- Chronicle
- Washington Post
- 5280
- Wikipedia: Cornhole
- Google Search: Cornhole Scholarships
- Google Scholar: Cornhole Athletics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cornhole
- Google News: Cornhole Competition
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
