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Winthrop University Launches New Cornhole Program

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Players competing in a cornhole tournament at Winthrop University

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.

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