SC Coach Staley celebrates women’s NCAA win at Disney World
Following her triumphant victory in the South Carolina women’s basketball national championship earlier this month, Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley fulfilled her promise to visit “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” arriving at Disney World on Saturday for a day of celebration and fun.
Staley, who famously declared “I’m Headed to Disney World’’ in the exhilarating moments after her team’s NCAA championship win, embarked on an enchanting journey through signature Disney attractions. Her day kicked off with a thrilling ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. By midday, she found herself at Magic Kingdom, where she rode atop a parade float alongside her fellow South Carolina basketball assistant coaches.
As the centerpiece of a celebratory afternoon cavalcade down Main Street, U.S.A., Staley was surrounded by streamers, fireworks, Disney characters, and cheering guests. Amidst the excitement, she also had the opportunity to interact with Minnie Mouse, who sported her own basketball uniform for the occasion.
Staley’s visit to Disney World caps off an extraordinary season for the coach and her team. Under her leadership, the South Carolina Gamecocks secured their third women’s basketball national title on April 6, culminating in an undefeated season. Staley’s coaching prowess has led to an impressive record of 109-3 over the last three years, solidifying her status as one of the most accomplished coaches in women’s college basketball history.
The coach’s declaration of a Disney visit following the championship win continues a beloved tradition of celebrating major national champions at Disney Parks. Originating with the New York Giants after their Super Bowl victory in 1987, this tradition has welcomed athletes from the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and the Olympics, recognizing their greatest sports achievements in the magical setting of a Disney park.
