Gamecocks Coach & Staff Celebrate National Championship at Walt Disney World

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site
gamecocks-disney-world-4

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!

Related: Disney World Announces Year-Long Room Refurbishment of Bay Lake Tower

gamecocks-disney-world-2

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.

gamecocks-disney-world-1

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.


gamecocks-disney-world-3

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!

Related: The Smellephants on Parade Marched Into Magic Kingdom Park!

“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.”


D2T-1

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

Name(Required)
MM slash DD slash YYYY
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:

1,183 Posts

Chris is a Pennsylvania native who relocated to Florida to be closer to the magic in 2022. You can find him in one of the Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort theme parks at least once per week. He leverages his extensive parks experience as a travel agent with Destinations To Travel. Reach out to Chris to start planning your next magical vacation today!
View All Posts
Follow Me :