Gamecocks Coach & Staff Celebrate National Championship at Walt Disney World

Legendary South Carolina Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley has conquered the college basketball world, leading her University of South Carolina team to an undefeated season and a thrilling National Championship win! So what does a champion coach do after winning the big game? Head off on a magical adventure to Walt Disney World Resort!

Staley, a revered player and coach with a record-breaking three national championships under her belt, couldn’t wait to experience the wonder of Disney. Her visit kicked off with a thrilling Kilimanjaro Safaris adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where she came face-to-face with over 30 incredible species, including the adorable Cora the baby elephant.

This trip was the ultimate reward for Coach Staley, fulfilling the promise she made in a now-iconic post-game interview on ESPN – “I’m going to Disney World!” Following the Disney tradition started with the New York Giants back in 1987, Coach Staley’s celebratory visit cemented her place alongside sports royalty who’ve celebrated their victories at the happiest place on Earth.

Disney created a day filled with unforgettable experiences for Coach Staley. From thrilling rides and cherished character interactions to pure, unadulterated fun, it was a celebration worthy of a champion! The highlight? A vibrant parade down Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, U.S.A., featuring Coach Staley, her coaching staff, and a special guest – Minnie Mouse, sporting a custom-made basketball uniform for the occasion!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6Rcp3HLWd_/?igsh=MWkwdTV0amhyeHVkYQ==

“Winning the National Championship was amazing,” Coach Staley shared after the parade, “but secretly, I wanted to win just so I could say those words in front of millions of people! And now that I’m here, I’m having the absolute best time.”

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.

Get started below for your FREE No Obligation Quote.

Book With our friends at Destinations to Travel

Who is your Travel Agent?(Required)

Name(Required)

First Last

Email(Required)

Phone(Required)

Destination(Required)

# of Adults(Required)

# of Children(Required)

Check-in-Date(Required)

Check-out-Date(Required)

Comments, Questions or Special Requests

Name

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!

Written by:

Chris B 1,810 Posts

Chris is a Pennsylvania native who escaped the cold and relocated to the Orlando area. Our resident Universal expert, Chris has been visiting the Universal Orlando Resort since the 1990s. Chris is a Universal and Walt Disney World Passholder, and can often be found exploring the parks taking in the sites (and finding new things to write about!).

View All Posts

Follow Me :