Deputy Athletics Director Charles Waddell Retires from Gamecocks

Columbia, South Carolina – Deputy Athletics Director Charles Waddell Retires After Nearly Two Decades with Gamecocks

Charles Waddell officially retired as the Associate Athletics Director of the University of South Carolina on Wednesday, concluding a nearly 20-year tenure with the Gamecocks. His significant contributions to the athletic department over the years have been marked by numerous championships and successful programs.

During Waddell’s time at South Carolina, the athletic department won a total of seven national championships. The Gamecocks achieved notable success in various sports, including two national championships in both baseball and equestrian, alongside three championships in women’s basketball. Waddell also played a pivotal role as the program enjoyed its best stretch in football history, achieved a Final Four run in men’s basketball, and secured multiple NCAA Tournament appearances in men’s soccer.

Waddell’s career prior to South Carolina included significant experience across various athletic organizations. He worked for the BIG Ten Conference, Fayetteville State University, the Carolina Panthers, and Richardson Sports. Notably, he was a three-sport athlete at the University of North Carolina, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track and field, earning accolades such as the prestigious Patterson Medal, along with All-ACC and All-American honors in football. He also played professionally in the NFL, competing for teams such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Seattle Seahawks, and San Diego Chargers.

Impact and Legacy

Throughout his career at South Carolina, Waddell worked under three different athletic directors, which included Eric Hyman, Ray Tanner, and Jeremiah Donati. He emphasized the importance of the relationships he has developed over the years, noting that many transformed into lasting friendships. Waddell acknowledges that he will greatly miss the daily interactions with student-athletes and how these relationships influenced his investment in their academic and athletic success.

As he steps away from his role, Waddell has expressed a desire to focus on charitable efforts, particularly aimed at helping underserved children. He intends to advocate for the importance of making good life decisions and promoting financial literacy among college athletes, especially considering the evolving landscape of college athletics, which he recognizes has become driven by external influence and financial considerations.

Future Aspirations

In retirement, Waddell looks forward to spending quality time with his family, including his wife, three children, and three grandchildren. Reflecting on his upbringing, he notes the significant influence his parents had on his values regarding education and hard work, which shaped his approach in both athletics and administration.

As one of South Carolina’s most respected figures in athletics, Waddell leaves behind a legacy defined by his contributions to student-athlete success and the overall success of the university’s athletic programs. His departure marks the end of an era for Gamecock athletics, as they look to build on the strong foundation he helped create during his tenure.