Winthrop University Dominates Collegiate Cornhole

Myrtle Beach, SC, January 11, 2026

Winthrop University’s cornhole program has made headlines by defending their national titles at the American Cornhole League National Competition in Myrtle Beach. This impressive feat, achieved in just their second year of competition, highlights the program’s rapid growth and the increasing popularity of non-traditional sports in higher education. With a focus on talent development and innovative recruitment strategies, Winthrop’s success is a testament to the commitment of the university and its coaching staff to cultivate champions in the evolving world of collegiate athletics.

Myrtle Beach, SC —

Winthrop University’s cornhole program has once again made national headlines, solidifying its position as a dominant force in collegiate athletics. The Eagles recently returned from Myrtle Beach, SC, having successfully defended both their team and doubles national titles at the American Cornhole League National Competition. This remarkable achievement marks back-to-back championships for Winthrop, a testament to the dedication, strategic development, and competitive spirit fostered within the program, which is only in its second year of competition.

The consistent success of programs like Winthrop Cornhole highlights a burgeoning trend in higher education: the embrace of non-traditional sports. This growth not only offers new avenues for student-athletes to excel but also underscores the value of private initiative and university support in cultivating athletic talent. The recent victories in Myrtle Beach further showcase how innovative collegiate programs, driven by a commitment to excellence, can quickly rise to prominence on the national stage, fostering a vibrant competitive environment for student-athletes.

A New Dynasty in Collegiate Cornhole

The early January competition at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center saw Winthrop University’s players reclaim their coveted national titles. The doubles championship was secured by the formidable pairing of Gavin Hamann and Jaxson Remmick. In the fiercely contested team event, the Eagles’ squad, comprising Hayden Gonzales, Dylan Graham, Sal Sandoval, and Mikayla Calvey, emerged victorious. Notably, Mikayla Calvey’s success marks a significant milestone, as she became Winthrop’s first female cornhole winner at the national level, showcasing the expanding inclusivity within the sport.

More than ten college teams from across the nation converged for the American Cornhole League National Competition, with the thrilling matches broadcast on ESPN 2 and the American Cornhole League website. The event, held from January 1-2, underscored the growing viewership and competitive stature of college cornhole, reflecting an increasing appreciation for precision, strategy, and mental fortitude required in the sport.

Myrtle Beach: A Hub for Emerging Sports

The selection of Myrtle Beach, SC, as the venue for the American Cornhole League National Competition underscores the city’s growing prominence as a destination for diverse sporting events. This consistent hosting of national championships for sports like cornhole significantly contributes to the local economy, drawing collegiate athletes, coaching staff, and their families to the region. The influx of visitors supports local businesses, from hospitality to retail, demonstrating the positive economic ripple effects of investing in the “Myrtle Beach SC sports” scene. The Myrtle Beach Sports Center, with its capacity to host large-scale tournaments, exemplifies how community infrastructure can facilitate the growth of emerging athletic endeavors, promoting both economic vitality and a dynamic sporting culture.

Strategic Investment Yields National Success

Winthrop University’s ascent to the pinnacle of collegiate cornhole in just its second year is a testament to visionary leadership and strategic investment. Head Coach Dusty Thompson has been instrumental in building the program from the ground up, actively recruiting talented players. Winthrop became the first NCAA Division I school to offer cornhole scholarships, a pioneering move that attracted top high school talent, significantly reducing tuition costs for out-of-state athletes. This innovative approach to player recruitment and support has been a cornerstone of the team’s rapid success, demonstrating how private initiative and institutional backing can cultivate champions in nascent sports.

The program’s structure is notably modeled after Winthrop’s successful Esports team, given that cornhole is not currently an NCAA-sanctioned sport. This independent framework allows for agility in program development and athlete support, emphasizing entrepreneurship in building a competitive collegiate sports entity. The focused environment encourages individual initiative and perseverance, key attributes that Coach Thompson instills in his players to prepare them for intense national competition.

The Pioneers of a Growing Sport

The foundation for Winthrop’s back-to-back national titles was laid in its inaugural 2025 season. During that year’s American Cornhole League National Competition, also held in Myrtle Beach, Luke Bryant and Josh Quinn secured the doubles championship. These two players, alongside Gavin Hamann and Jaxson Remmick, combined to win the team championship, establishing Winthrop as an immediate powerhouse in the sport. The ability to replicate and exceed this initial success in 2026 speaks volumes about the program’s sustainable model for excellence and its consistent ability to develop and retain elite talent.

This sustained performance underscores a broader national trend: the evolution of cornhole from a recreational pastime to a formally organized and highly competitive sport. The rigorous training, strategic gameplay, and mental toughness exhibited by Winthrop’s athletes exemplify the demands of high-level collegiate cornhole. The growth of the American Cornhole League and its college division reflects a healthy competitive landscape, encouraging participation and providing a structured pathway for aspiring athletes.

Building a Future: Recruitment and Community

With a proven track record of success, Winthrop Cornhole is actively looking to the future. The program extends an invitation to high school seniors aspiring to collegiate athletic careers, emphasizing its commitment to developing top-tier collegiate cornhole players. This forward-looking recruitment strategy ensures a continuous pipeline of talent, vital for maintaining a championship-caliber program. The team’s ongoing success not only elevates Winthrop University’s athletic profile but also shines a light on the dedication of the entire community—from university administration to individual supporters—who champion these student-athletes. Supporting collegiate athletics, particularly in emerging sports like cornhole, fosters a sense of community pride and provides valuable opportunities for young individuals to achieve their academic and athletic potential. Engaging with Winthrop University athletics, whether through attendance at events or community support, directly contributes to the continued growth and success of these exceptional programs and their student-athletes.

Winthrop Cornhole’s sustained excellence at the “college cornhole championship” stage reinforces the belief that responsible growth and competitive spirit can lead to unparalleled success. As these athletes continue to throw their way into the record books, they inspire a new generation to embrace competition and pursue their passions with perseverance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What national titles did Winthrop Cornhole win recently?

Winthrop Cornhole recently won back-to-back team and doubles national titles.

Where was the American Cornhole League National Competition held?

The American Cornhole League National Competition was held at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center in Myrtle Beach, SC.

Which players won the doubles title for Winthrop in 2026?

Gavin Hamann and Jaxson Remmick captured the doubles title for Winthrop in 2026.

Who were the members of the Winthrop team that won the team title in 2026?

Hayden Gonzales, Dylan Graham, Sal Sandoval, and Mikayla Calvey won the team title for Winthrop in 2026.

Who was Winthrop’s first female cornhole national winner?

Mikayla Calvey is Winthrop’s first female cornhole national winner.

In which year did Winthrop University’s cornhole program begin competing?

Winthrop University’s cornhole program began competing in 2025, making this their second year competing in 2026.

Did Winthrop offer scholarships for cornhole players?

Yes, Winthrop became the first NCAA Division I school to offer cornhole scholarships.

Is cornhole an NCAA-sanctioned sport?

No, cornhole is not an NCAA-sanctioned sport, and Winthrop’s program is modeled after its Esports program.

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