Myrtle Beach: A Unique Identity Revealed at the Myrtle Beach Bowl
In Myrtle Beach, the coastal city of South Carolina known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant tourism, a new twist on its nickname emerged during the recent sports event. This year, the 2024 Myrtle Beach Bowl showcased more than just college football; it highlighted the creative ways in which locals and visitors refer to this popular destination.
Who and What
Alyssa Lang, an ESPN sideline reporter, made headlines not just for her role in covering the clash between Coastal Carolina University (CCU) and the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) during the bowl game, but for coining a playful phrase for Myrtle Beach—“Dirty Myrty.” This unique nickname caught the attention of many, as it contrasts with the more commonly used moniker, “Dirty Myrtle.”
Where and When
The Myrtle Beach Bowl took place on December 23, 2024, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Known for its picturesque coastline and numerous tourist attractions, this location continues to be a favored hub for sporting events.
Why This Matters
The use of “Dirty Myrty” is representative of the informal culture surrounding Myrtle Beach. While its more traditional nickname, “Dirty Myrtle,” has been a regular part of the local vernacular for years, the origins of this nickname are shrouded in mystery. Various stories circulate concerning how it came to be part of Myrtle Beach’s cultural identity, with no single narrative embraced by all residents.
As reports mention, the nickname “Dirty Myrtle” has been adopted by some local businesses as well. For instance, the recently opened Dirty Myrtle Wing Company at the oceanfront aims to capture the playful spirit behind this terminology, with plans to expand to neighboring Murrells Inlet.
A Look at the Game
On the field, the 2024 Myrtle Beach Bowl was an exciting showcase where UTSA prevailed over CCU with a score of 44-15. The match drew in local crowds and sports fans alike, making it a memorable event in the sporting calendar for Myrtle Beach.
Community Engagement
The playful nature of the nickname “Dirty Myrty” speaks volumes about the community in Myrtle Beach—where humor and local pride coexist. Many locals often engage with the pair of names, embracing both the lightheartedness and the charm of their city.
As sports events continue to thrive in Myrtle Beach, the area is likely to see even more innovative usages of its nicknames, fostering further engagement among tourists and residents. From food establishments leveraging local culture in their branding to sports commentators adding flair during broadcasts, Myrtle Beach’s identity as a vacation destination is enriched by these expressions.
A Lasting Impression
Overall, the emergence of “Dirty Myrty” into the lexicon of Myrtle Beach during such a significant event is a reminder of how places can cultivate unique identities through naming conventions. As Myrtle Beach continues to grow and adapt, it is clear that its spirit—captured through these creative monikers—will remain a vibrant part of its charm going forward.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
