2025 Gamecock Gala Award Winners Announced
Columbia, S.C. — The University of South Carolina Athletics Department hosted its annual Gamecock Gala to honor the achievements of its student-athletes both on and off the field. Among the most anticipated honors of the night was the prestigious President’s Award, which recognizes one senior student-athlete for excellence in athletics, academics, and leadership. This year’s recipient was women’s golfer Louise Rydqvist, who also received the H. Boyd McWhorter Scholarship for academic excellence, marking an exceptional close to her collegiate career.
On the men’s side, LaNorris Sellers of the football team was named Male Athlete of the Year following a stellar season. As the Football Writers’ Association of America National Freshman Offensive Player of the Year and an All-SEC selection, Sellers helped lead the Gamecocks to a 9-4 record and a No. 19 national ranking — their highest since 2013. His 65.6% pass completion percentage stands as the seventh-best in school history, highlighting his impressive command and accuracy as a quarterback.
JaMeesia Ford, a standout in track and field, earned the title of Female Athlete of the Year for the second consecutive season. Ford continued her dominance in the 200m, winning the SEC Indoor Championship and later taking bronze at the NCAA Indoor Championships. She earned first-team All-America honors in the 200m and second-team in the 4x400m relay. Ford also contributed significantly to the Gamecocks’ overall team success at the SEC level, helping secure podium finishes in both the 4x400m relay and the distance medley relay.
Academic achievement was also in the spotlight. Raven Johnson of women’s basketball received the Dodie Academic MVP Award, while Ellie Ruprich (volleyball) and Dylan Targgart (track & field) were honored as the Female and Male Scholar Athletes of the Year, respectively. Their recognition reflects a strong commitment to balancing the demands of academics and athletics at the highest level.
In recognition of community involvement, the Brad E. Davis Outstanding Community Service Awards went to Taylor Fox (soccer) and Jacobi Wright (basketball), applauding their efforts to give back and lead outside the competitive arena. Leadership honors went to Paige Collins of women’s swimming and diving, who received the Gamecock Leadership Award, while Jack Carman of men’s swimming and diving earned the Gamecock Inspiration Award for his resilience and dedication.
Freshman achievements were also celebrated. Joyce Edwards of women’s basketball and Devan Crumpton of track and field were named Female and Male Freshman of the Year, respectively. Meanwhile, Kyle Kennard, a football standout, was awarded New Student-Athlete of the Year, making a strong impression in his debut season.
The Team Impact Award was presented to Women’s Swimming and Diving, recognizing their cohesive performance and competitive spirit throughout the year.
With so many individual and team accomplishments, the 2025 Gamecock Gala showcased the heart, talent, and determination of South Carolina’s student-athletes. The event not only celebrated athletic excellence but also highlighted leadership, service, and academic achievements, affirming the holistic commitment of the university’s athletic community.
