The Daily Gamecock

Gamecocks give back to the community at annual event

Members of the football team read and play games with Columbia children

For the 22nd year in a row, members of the South Carolina football team joined local Columbia children for the Pigskin Poets event. 

This event, held at Drew Wellness Center and sponsored by Richland Library, is part of Richland Library’s Summer Learning Challenge to help promote reading for children. 

“We love getting to bring the football team together with their youngest fans to celebrate reading,” said Rebecca Thomas, Youth Services Supervisor at Richland Library. “The kids ... look up to them on the field, and so to have them come here ... it shows them that reading's important and it’s a fun thing to do.” 

Former Gamecock running back and current Director of Player Development Marcus Lattimore was heavily involved in organizing the event, according to Thomas. Lattimore’s position is a unique one and has put emphasis on the team’s community involvement. 

“[Marcus] was definitely a part of the planning team. So we got to work with him and with him and with other folks at USC athletics,” said Thomas. “Marcus remembers coming when he was a freshman, so it’s so great to see that come full circle.” 

Not only is it fun for children in attendance, but also for football players as well. Junior linebacker T.J. Brunson was at the event and emphasized how important it is for the players to come out to events such as Pigskin Poets. 

“I think it’s really good to get out there and just enjoy the kids,” said Brunson. “At the end of the day, they’re gaining something from us, we’re gaining something from them. I love it. I think it’s really fun to be able to do this.” 

On the football side of things, Brunson had high praise for the freshmen on team, many of who were in attendance today. Having the younger players adapt to the team’s culture is important for both players and coaches, and is something that Brunson was pleased to see. 

“The freshman here have been great, they've been adapting pretty well,” said Brunson. "They’ve been very receptive of everything that the coaches have been pushing on them."


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