Chase Teal, a distinguished member of the South Carolina Gamecocks beach volleyball team, has announced her decision to pursue greater heights following her graduation after the spring season. Teal, a nursing major from Creedmoor, North Carolina, has been a pivotal player for the Gamecocks, demonstrating exceptional skill and dedication both on and off the sand.
Throughout her collegiate career, Teal has been recognized for her academic excellence. She earned a spot on the First-Year SEC Academic Honor Roll in 2021-22 and was subsequently named to the SEC Spring Academic Honor Roll in both 2023 and 2024. These accolades reflect her commitment to balancing the rigorous demands of athletics and academics.
On the court, Teal’s versatility has been a significant asset to the Gamecocks. In the 2024 season, she made 15 starts, achieving an 8-7 overall record while competing on courts four and five. Her performance included a notable victory over #12 Georgia State on February 24, showcasing her ability to excel against top-tier competition.
Teal’s journey with the Gamecocks began with promise. In 2021, she was named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association’s High School Beach All-American second team, highlighting her potential as she transitioned to collegiate play. This early recognition set the stage for a career marked by growth and achievement.
Beyond her athletic endeavors, Teal has demonstrated a profound commitment to her future profession in nursing. In the summer of 2024, she participated in the Athletics Department’s Beyond Sports Professional Development and Summer Internship program, working as a nurse extern at Prisma Health’s Richland campus. This experience provided her with hands-on exposure to cardiac care, aligning with her longstanding aspiration to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.
Teal’s dedication to nursing is deeply rooted in personal experiences. Her family’s background in healthcare and her grandfather’s medical journey inspired her to pursue a career where she can make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Witnessing the compassionate care her grandfather received solidified her desire to enter the nursing field.
As she approaches graduation, Teal reflects on her time with the Gamecocks with gratitude. Her contributions have been integral to the team’s successes, and her leadership has left a lasting impression on her teammates and coaches. Her ability to balance the demands of a rigorous nursing program with the commitments of a Division I athlete speaks volumes about her work ethic and determination.
Looking ahead, Teal is poised to embark on a career in nursing, where she aims to specialize in pediatric care. Her clinical experiences during her externship, including observing open-heart surgeries and managing patient care, have equipped her with a solid foundation for her future endeavors.
Teal’s departure marks a significant transition for the Gamecocks. Her leadership and competitive spirit have been cornerstones of the team’s culture. As she moves forward, she leaves behind a legacy of excellence that will inspire future generations of Gamecock athletes.
In reflecting on her journey, Teal acknowledges the support of her family, coaches, and teammates. Their unwavering encouragement has been instrumental in her development as both an athlete and a nursing professional. She credits her experiences at South Carolina with shaping her into a well-rounded individual prepared to tackle the challenges of the healthcare field.
As she graduates, Teal embodies the spirit of a student-athlete who has maximized her collegiate experience. Her story serves as an inspiration, illustrating the possibilities that arise from dedication, resilience, and a passion for making a difference. The Gamecock community celebrates her achievements and eagerly anticipates the positive impact she will undoubtedly make in the world of nursing.