Alumni Spotlight: Kelley Dillon

Feb. 9, 2015

Gamecock History

Kelley Dillon loved the atmosphere in Columbia around Gamecock sporting events, enjoying the tailgating and the chance to go to so many games.
Being with her teammates and friends are some of her strongest memories. She specifically mentioned group dinners, watch parties for TV shows (Glee being one) and going to the river, with her teammates tanning and her fishing.
She transferred to South Carolina after two years at the College of Charleston, choosing to test herself by joining the Gamecocks. She says that decision is one of the best she’s made.
Dillon became a program legend in 2012, her redshirt year, by reading the lineup in the pre-game huddle in a British accent.
She also loved beating Florida in her final season to clinch a berth in the SEC Tournament.
Another memorable moment was Coach Smith reading her name as part of the starting lineup in her first game as a Gamecock.
She says it’s a great feeling to graduate and know she was a part of setting a new expectation for the program.

Dillon leads a dual life still, serving as a volunteer assistant at the College of Charleston while also pursuing a masters from The Citadel.
She feels like she has a purpose in life now with her decision to get certified to teach and coach, and she’s surprising herself at how much she enjoys school and the direction her life is heading.
She enjoys being back home in the Charleston area and following in her father’s footsteps, as he graduated from The Citadel in 1982.
She’s now an aunt and enjoys having a niece in her life.

Interview conducted by Sarah Mooney