As I reflect on my tenure with the South Carolina Gamecocks, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and pride. Serving as the Associate Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator has been an enriching chapter in my coaching career. The decision to depart from this esteemed program was not made lightly, but I am honored to embrace the opportunity to lead as the Head Coach of [New Team].
When I joined the Gamecocks in January 2024, I was eager to bring my NFL experience to the collegiate level. The transition was seamless, thanks to the unwavering support from Coach Shane Beamer, the dedicated staff, and the passionate players. Together, we cultivated a culture of excellence and resilience, which was evident in our on-field performances.
One of the highlights of my time here was mentoring punter Kai Kroeger. Witnessing his growth and dedication culminate in second-team All-America honors and recognition as the All-SEC punter was truly rewarding. His achievement of leading the SEC and ranking third nationally with a 47.8-yard punting average stands as a testament to his hard work and our collective commitment to special teams excellence.
Our special teams unit consistently demonstrated top-tier performance, finishing sixth nationally in net punting, 13th in punt return defense, and 14th in kickoff return defense. These accomplishments reflect the collective effort and determination of our players and coaching staff.
Beyond the statistics, the relationships I forged here have been invaluable. Collaborating with Coach Beamer, whose leadership and vision are unparalleled, has been a privilege. The camaraderie within the coaching staff and the unyielding spirit of our players have made this journey profoundly fulfilling.
The support from the university administration and the Board of Trustees has been instrumental in our success. Their commitment to providing the resources necessary for our program to thrive has not gone unnoticed, and I am deeply appreciative of their unwavering support.
Reflecting on our 2024 season, the resilience and determination of our team were on full display. Despite facing challenges, including narrow losses to formidable opponents, we rallied to secure significant victories, such as the decisive win over Oklahoma and the historic triumph against Texas A&M. These moments exemplify the indomitable spirit of the Gamecocks.
The decision to transition to a head coaching role is both exciting and bittersweet. While I am eager to embark on this new journey with [New Team], leaving behind the relationships and memories forged at South Carolina is undoubtedly challenging.
To the fans, whose unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your passion and dedication have made every game at Williams-Brice Stadium an unforgettable experience.
As I step into this new chapter, I carry with me the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the indelible memories from my time with the Gamecocks. I am confident that the foundation we’ve built will continue to propel South Carolina football to greater heights.
Thank you, Gamecock Nation, for an incredible journey. I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, knowing that a part of my heart will always remain in Columbia.