Coastal Carolina University football kicked off their home opener and newest traditions with a 40-21 win versus William and Mary University on Sept. 7.
The kickoff ceremony was flushed with new traditions with new pyrotechnic additions, a motorcycle entrance and the christening of the new Conwave student section.
The Chanticleer Regiment opened the kickoff ceremony with a fight song performance for the fans, followed by the local motorcycle club, Rivertown Riders. The Rivertown Riders began lining up their motorcycles and revving their engines in preparation for the Chanticleer run-on, a newly created tradition.
Players were motivated by unwavering school support from the fourth largest crowd in program history with approximately 19,294 fans in Brooks Stadium.
Redshirt sophomore Ethan Vasko made his home opener debut in the 2024 season as Coastal’s primary quarterback. Vasko led the team to success passing 160 yards and rushing six times for 59 yards.
During the first quarter, running back Braydon Bennett made a touchdown in the first three minutes of the game. Soon after, Bennett sustained a game-ending ankle injury as he remained benched for the rest of Saturday night’s game.
In the third quarter, defensive back Matthew McDoom had a 24-yard fumble return, leading the Chanticleers to a touchdown 44 seconds in.
“I was making my best opportunity,” McDoom said.
Coastal’s starting running backChristian Washington put on a performance for the fans Saturday night, and ended the game with 100 rushing yards on 16 carries and two touchdowns.
“We can’t do it without our fans, we wouldn’t be who we are without them,” Washington said.
In a post-game press conference, head coach Tim Beck along with Washington and McDoom spoke about their need to continue being ready at any moment and working hard as the season progresses.
“Winning is hard, we are still learning how to win,” Beck said.
Stay up to date with the Chanticleers’ football season on X via @ccunewspaper.
