Columbia, SC, August 12, 2025
News Summary
The University of South Carolina has established a significant partnership with Blanchard Machinery to enhance the athletic experience at Williams-Brice Stadium. This collaboration includes the introduction of on-field logos and substantial improvements to stadium facilities. Starting with the 2025 home opener, Blanchard’s branding will be featured prominently, marking a historic investment in USC athletics. The partnership also aims to provide valuable opportunities for student-athletes through internships and job placements, while fostering strong community ties.
Columbia, SC – The University of South Carolina (USC) has formed a historic partnership with Blanchard Machinery, a leading machinery company in South Carolina, to enhance the athletic experience and improve facilities at USC, particularly at Williams-Brice Stadium. The collaboration, which marks a significant investment in USC’s athletics department, will introduce on-field logos for the first time, showcasing Blanchard’s branding during home games.
Beginning with the 2025 home opener, Blanchard’s CAT and Blanchard Rental logos will be prominently displayed on both 25-yard lines of Williams-Brice Stadium. This visibility represents Blanchard’s commitment to supporting the Gamecocks and underscores their connection to South Carolina’s community. The financial component of the partnership is the largest investment in the history of USC athletics, though the specific amount has not been disclosed.
The partnership also includes a five-year extension with Gamecock Athletics and Learfield’s Gamecock Sports Properties. This significant collaboration aims to drive improvements in the stadium ahead of the 2027 football season. The planned renovations for Williams-Brice Stadium will upgrade facilities on both the West and East sides, introduce new premium seating options, and enhance the overall spectator experience.
Jeremiah Donati, USC’s Director of Athletics, expressed the pride in partnering with a local, alumni-led company like Blanchard. The partnership is not only about branding but also focuses on contributing to student-athlete development. Blanchard will provide internships and post-graduate job opportunities to USC athletes, strengthening their transition from sports to professional careers.
In addition to on-field logos and stadium improvements, Blanchard will maintain its sponsorship programs across different sports, including football and basketball. These initiatives will also include contributions to the “Building Blocks of South Carolina” radio feature and digital signage during home games, which are expected to reach national audiences through various broadcast platforms.
This strategic partnership symbolizes the potential for collaboration between local businesses and universities to benefit the broader community. Boyd Blanchard, President and CEO of Blanchard, expressed enthusiasm for investing in the future of South Carolina through this initiative. The partnership aims to enhance Gamecock Athletics significantly while fostering strong community ties.
USC, a member of the Southeastern Conference, sponsors 21 varsity sports and has a proud history of athletic success. The collaboration with Blanchard Machinery not only underscores the commitment to excellence in athletics but also highlights the university’s focus on positive community engagement and support for its student-athletes.
About Blanchard Machinery Company
Blanchard Machinery is a renowned machinery company that offers a wide range of products and services across various sectors, helping to support local businesses and communities in South Carolina. Their community-focused initiatives extend beyond athletics, aiming to foster growth and development within the region.
Looking Forward
The partnership between USC and Blanchard Machinery promises to bring about exciting changes for Gamecock Athletics, enhancing both fan experiences and providing valuable opportunities for student-athletes. As renovations and branding initiatives unfold, supporters eagerly await the positive impact this collaboration will yield for the university and the surrounding community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new partnership between USC and Blanchard Machinery?
The University of South Carolina has partnered with Blanchard Machinery to enhance athletic experiences at USC, which includes stadium improvements and the introduction of on-field logos starting in 2025.
What improvements are planned for Williams-Brice Stadium?
Improvements will include renovations on the West and East sides, the addition of new premium seating options, and overall facility enhancements, set for completion by the 2027 football season.
How will Blanchard Machinery support student-athletes?
Blanchard Machinery plans to provide internships and post-graduate job opportunities to USC student-athletes, helping them transition from athletics into their professional careers.
When will the Blanchard logos appear at USC sporting events?
The Blanchard CAT and Blanchard Rental logos will debut on the field during the 2025 home opener at Williams-Brice Stadium.
Key Features of the USC and Blanchard Machinery Partnership
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| On-Field Logos | Blanchard’s logos to be displayed prominently at Williams-Brice Stadium on 25-yard lines starting in 2025. |
| Stadium Improvements | Renovations will include enhancements to the East/West sides and new premium seating options by 2027. |
| Largest Investment | The partnership represents the largest investment in the history of USC Athletics. |
| Student-Athlete Opportunities | Internships and job opportunities for USC athletes will be provided by Blanchard Machinery. |
| Sponsorship and Visibility | Blanchard will sponsor various sports and their visibility will extend through broadcasts and social media. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
USC Board Approves Second Phase of Williams-Brice Stadium Renovations
University of South Carolina Advances $350 Million Stadium Renovation
University of South Carolina Approves Major Stadium Renovations
University of South Carolina Partners with Legends for Enhanced Fan Experience
Financial Challenges for South Carolina Women’s Basketball
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
