Wayne Hiott

Wayne Hiott was named the Chief Executive Officer of the Gamecock Club in 2022, overseeing all athletics fundraising operations. Since stepping into the role, Hiott has led the organization through historic growth, record-breaking fundraising, and innovative member-focused initiatives that have positioned the Gamecock Club as one of the premier fundraising operations in the SEC.

Hiott has served the Gamecock Club in numerous capacities since 2011, including work on both the annual fund and major gift teams. Under his leadership as CEO, the Gamecock Club has achieved unprecedented milestones: membership has surged past 20,000—an increase of nearly 50 percent since 2021—while both the Student Gamecock Club and Junior Gamecock Club have grown to all-time highs. He strategically built out the Gamecock Club staff to align with a long-term vision for growth, creating specialized teams to strengthen member engagement and enhance donor service

In 2024, Hiott successfully lead the privatization of the Gamecock Club, transforming it into an independent organization with greater operational flexibility, competitive staffing structures, and enhanced fundraising capacity. This move has strengthened efficiency, boosted donor confidence, and provided a foundation for long-term growth.

In fundraising, Hiott’s tenure has set new standards of excellence. In the 2024–25 fiscal year, the Gamecock Club raised a record $107 million, fueled by the largest single-time gift in South Carolina Athletics history and a major gifts team that more than doubled its previous fundraising record. These efforts have not only enhanced membership and ticket sales but also provided critical resources for scholarships, facilities, and NIL support for student-athletes.

A native of Charleston, S.C., Hiott is a two-time graduate of the University of South Carolina. He earned a bachelor’s degree in sport and entertainment management in 2011 and a master’s degree in business administration in 2018. During his undergraduate years, he interned with the Gamecock Club, leading to his first full-time position with the organization immediately after graduation. He has remained with the Gamecock Club ever since.

“Being the CEO of the Gamecock Club is a true honor and a privilege for me,” said Hiott. “I grew up down the road in Charleston, attended this great university, and have set deep roots through family and friends in this community.”

Established in 1940, the Gamecock Club provides financial support to student-athletes representing the University of South Carolina. This aid includes tuition, meals, housing, medical costs, and other educational needs. Its major gifts team raises capital gifts that fund program and facility enhancements for the athletics department. Under Hiott’s leadership, the organization has expanded its reach and impact, setting new records and ensuring the long-term success of Gamecock Athletics.