AIKEN, SC – Randy Warrick Named President of the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame Following Retirement from USC Aiken

Randy Warrick has been appointed as the new President of the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame (SCAHOF) after retiring from his long-standing role at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken). Warrick’s retirement was celebrated on May 31, 2023, with a reception honoring his impressive 39 years of service to the university’s athletic programs.

Andy Solomon, the Executive Director of SCAHOF, expressed confidence in Warrick’s ability to lead the organization, noting that his extensive experience and deep ties to the athletic community at USC Aiken will be invaluable. Warrick is recognized as the longest-serving director of athletics in the South Carolina system, having played a pivotal role in both local and national collegiate sports developments.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Warrick’s distinguished career at USC Aiken began in 1978, where he initially served as a baseball coach before taking on the role of director of athletics. In 1990, he split his responsibilities to focus on both roles more effectively. Notably, Warrick was instrumental in the formation of the Peach Belt Conference and facilitated the transition of the USC Aiken Pacers from NAIA to NCAA Division II.

Under his leadership, the USC Aiken Pacers achieved remarkable success, including:

• Three consecutive national championships in men’s golf.
• A Final Four appearance and two Elite Eight appearances in men’s basketball.
• The volleyball team’s Elite Eight status, marking the school’s first women’s program to reach this level.
• Two NAIA World Series appearances for the baseball team.

Beyond his local accomplishments, Warrick also served nationally as a five-year member of the NCAA Division II National Golf Committee, chairing the committee from 2004 to 2006. His commitment to enhancing collegiate athletics extends well beyond his tenure at USC Aiken, earning him the prestigious Order of the Palmetto in 2017.

New Leadership Roles at SCAHOF

Alongside Warrick, the SCAHOF has appointed additional leadership positions to help guide the organization forward. Bill Hamilton, previously affiliated with South Carolina State University, will serve as the past president. Jim Corbett, a Columbia attorney and former radio sports reporter, has been named the first vice president. The second vice president position will be held by Rick Sanford, a former defensive back for USC and a 1998 SCAHOF inductee. The third vice president role goes to Eddie Robinson, a veterinarian and former president of IPTAY.

Future Initiatives and Events

Warrick has expressed enthusiasm about his new role, indicating a commitment to honoring the individuals who have significantly impacted South Carolina’s athletic legacy. The SCAHOF is looking forward to its 64th Annual Induction Ceremony and Banquet, which is scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2024, at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

As the organization enters this new chapter with Warrick at the helm, stakeholders anticipate a renewed focus on celebrating athletic achievements and fostering future talents within the state. The Hall of Fame, with its storied past, aims to continue honoring the contributions of individuals who have made lasting impacts on sports in South Carolina.