**Tragedy Strikes South Carolina Football Community: Former Gamecocks Star Kevin Long Passes Away**([New York Post][1])
The South Carolina football community is in mourning following the death of former Gamecocks running back Kevin Long. Long, who was 69, passed away on September 11, 2024, in New York. A native of Clinton, South Carolina, he made history with the University of South Carolina Gamecocks by becoming the first player in program history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season in 1975. During his time with the Gamecocks, he accumulated 2,372 rushing yards, ranking him 10th all-time in school history. Drafted by the New York Jets in the seventh round of the 1977 NFL Draft, Long achieved his dream of playing professional football. He played five seasons with the Jets, amassing 2,190 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns. His best season came in 1978, where he rushed for 914 yards and 10 touchdowns. After a brief stint with the Chicago Bears, Long found success in the USFL with the Chicago Blitz and Arizona Wranglers, recording 2,316 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns over three seasons. Long was inducted into both the State of South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame and the University of South Carolina’s Hall of Fame. Funeral arrangements are yet to be finalized. ([New York Post][1])
In a separate incident, the Lake City football community is recovering from a devastating bus crash that occurred on July 14, 2023. The crash, which took place in Orangeburg County, involved the Lake City High School football team and coach Ronald Baker, who were returning from a football camp at South Carolina State University. Several players and Coach Baker sustained injuries, with one student being transferred to a hospital in Charleston. The community responded with a prayer vigil, gathering at the Lake City High School football field to support the victims and their families. ([WLTX][2])
Additionally, the South Carolina State University football program is grieving the loss of three former players who passed away within a six-day span in July 2024. Defensive end Nathaniel Wilcox, a May 2024 graduate, died following a firefighter’s training session in Florida. Bennie Blocker, a Hall of Fame running back who played for the Bulldogs from 1965 to 1968, passed away after a short illness in Columbia, South Carolina. Malcolm Montgomery, a three-time All-MEAC placekicker for SC State from 1976 to 1979, also died at his home in Orangeburg. The university has expressed deep sympathy and plans to honor their memories in the coming months. ([scsuathletics.com][3])
These tragedies have deeply affected the South Carolina football community, highlighting the importance of support and unity during times of loss. As the Gamecocks and other programs continue their seasons, they carry the memories of these individuals, honoring their contributions both on and off the field.