GamecockCentral Kickoff Party raises money for Hayden Hurst Family Foundation
A total of $5,695.34 was raised to benefit the Hayden Hurst Family Foundation during the GamecockCentral Kickoff Party at Steel Hands Brewing on August 20, it was announced today.
“Hayden and the entire Hurst Family want to thank the Gamecock Nation for their generosity,” said Cathy Hurst, mother of Hayden Hurst. “We appreciate Gamecock Central and Steel Hands Brewing for thinking of Hayden and his foundation for this amazing event. The Hurst family is excited about how these funds will help us further our impact in the Columbia area.”
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The second annual event featured music from Patrick Davis and His Midnight Choir, prize giveaways, plus appearances from former and current Gamecock athletes and coaches.
South Carolina head football coach Shane Beamer made an on-stage appearance for the second year in a row, and fans in attendance also had the opportunity to hear a special recorded message from Hayden Hurst, who was attending training camp with the Cincinnati Bengals at the time.
“Gamecock Nation showed up in a big way to support a great cause,” said GamecockCentral.com’s Wes Mitchell. “We are honored to come alongside an athlete who will always be a part of the South Carolina family to help make an impact.”
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The Hayden Hurst Family Foundation was launched in 2020 and supports mental health initiatives, including “In Focus” implementation in 13 elementary and middle schools in the states of South Carolina, Maryland, and Georgia. In 2021, the non-profit added veteran’s health to its mission, supporting fundraisers with various K9 organizations.
Hurst, a Florida native, played at South Carolina from 2015 until 2017 en route to becoming a first round NFL Draft pick. After his time with the Baltimore Ravens, he spent two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons prior to moving in the offseason to Cincinnati.
“We were thrilled to partner with Gamecock Central to support the Hayden Hurst Family Foundation at this year’s Kickoff event,” said Ashley Lambert, Marketing and Business Development Director for Steel Hands Brewing. “It was truly phenomenal to watch Gamecock fans, current and alumni players, and our incredible sponsors show up in support. We’re thankful for the opportunity to work with Hayden’s Foundation and their mission of garnering awareness for breaking the stigma on mental health.”
WIN! Framed picture of Williams-Brice Stadium signed by George Rogers
Fans interested in learning more about the Hayden Hurst Family Foundation and getting involved can visit the website.
