July 12, 2017

When introduced as South Carolina’s head baseball coach on June 30, Mark Kingston had messages for fans, student-athletes and anyone else involved with the program. With South Carolina ranking fifth nationally in overall baseball attendance last year, Kingston looks forward to playing in front of what he called “the greatest crowd in America.” As you prepare to purchase, or renew, your season tickets for next year, we wanted to remind you of Coach Kingston’s message for Gamecock Nation:

To Alumni ââ’¬” “You guys built this tradition. We will work very hard to protect what this program is all about. You will always be welcome, wherever we are.”

To Administration ââ’¬” “We will represent USC with class. We will support the mission of the student-athlete. We will support the academic mission of this school.”

To Coaches and Parents ââ’¬” “We will respect your kids. We will develop their potential.”

To Fans ââ’¬” “We will embrace your expectations. I know what the expectations are. We won’t run from the expectations. We will run toward them. I know how important the in-state rivalry is here. We want Omaha as much as you do. Only eight teams get there every year. We can work every day to make sure that is our focus. I’ve been to Omaha three times with three schools. I want to get there a fourth time with a fourth school, wearing these colors. I know what your goals are. Those are our goals, too.”

To the Players ââ’¬” “Prepare to work. There are no shortcuts. We will reach our potential because we work. Play hard. Play smart. Be disciplined.

We look forward to seeing you at Founders Park in February and welcoming Coach Kingston on Opening Day, donning the Garnet and Black.