COLUMBIA — Ray Tanner Field to Honor Two-Time National Championship Coach
The University of South Carolina announced today that their baseball field will be officially named Ray Tanner Field starting in the 2025 season. This honor reflects Tanner’s significant contributions to Gamecock baseball and his long tenure as both a coach and athletic director.
Details of the Announcement
The formal announcement came during a media briefing held by university officials. With this decision, the Gamecock baseball field at Founders Park will carry Tanner’s name, recognizing his legacy within the university. Founders Park, which has publicly held its name since 2016, will continue its association with Founders Federal Credit Union, as they extended their naming rights contract to last through 2035.
A Grateful Coach
Ray Tanner expressed his gratitude for this honor, stating, “The accomplishments that I have been a part of at the University of South Carolina are due to the wonderful support of our University administration, Gamecock student-athletes, coaches, staff, and fans.” His acknowledgment highlights the collaborative effort within the university community to achieve excellence.
Support from the Community
A group of dedicated Gamecock Athletics donors came together to contribute a total of $2.5 million for this naming initiative. Bruce Brumfield, President and CEO of Founders Federal Credit Union, voiced enthusiasm about Tanner’s recognition, adding, “It is a privilege for Founders Park to be associated in any way with Coach Tanner and his legacy.” Tanner’s reputation for integrity and devotion to the university made this honor even more deserving, according to Brumfield.
Ray Tanner’s Accomplishments
Ray Tanner served as South Carolina’s baseball head coach for 16 seasons starting in 1996. During his time, he led the Gamecocks to a remarkable 738-316 record and six appearances at the College World Series, where they clinched NCAA Championships in 2010 and 2011. Tanner’s leadership also saw the team achieve four national runner-up finishes as well as numerous conference championships.
His tenure as Athletics Director, which started in 2012, was marked by a commitment to enhancing the student-athlete experience. South Carolina became the first school in the SEC to guarantee four-year scholarships for qualifying sports through the
“Gamecock Student-Athlete Promise.”
Tanner’s Legacy and Future Role
Tanner is set to transition from his current role as Athletics Director to Athletics Director Emeritus and Senior Advisor to the University President, Michael Amiridis. This shift was announced on September 13, 2024, recognizing his invaluable contributions to the athletic department.
Looking Ahead…
A dedication ceremony for the newly named Ray Tanner Field is scheduled during the opening weekend of the 2025 baseball season on February 14-16, 2025. This event will commemorate Tanner’s legacy and the strong tradition of Gamecock baseball.
With Tanner’s history intertwined with the University of South Carolina, the new field name will serve as a permanent tribute to his impact on both the baseball program and student-athletes throughout the university.
