The next chapter of athlete development is coming to Columbia
Presented by HUSTL Sports Performance
HUSTL blends high-performance training with belonging to create a place where athletes train hard + recover well. | Photos provided by HUSTL Sports Performance
Columbia’s sports scene is about to level up. In 2026, HUSTL Sports Performance will open at 1124 Shop Rd., introducing a bold, purpose-driven approach to youth athletic development — one that’s just as focused on character and confidence as it is on speed and strength.
Designed for athletes ages 7-22 across all sports, HUSTL Sports Performance isn’t just another training facility. It’s a community-rooted environment built to develop complete athletes and better humans.
What sets HUSTL apart
At the heart of the newly updated 16,000 sqft facility is everything young athletes need to train, recover, and belong:
45 yards of turf for speed, agility, and sport-specific training
Three batting cages supporting baseball and softball development
Strength and conditioning equipment built for long-term athletic growth
The Epic Players Lounge, a locker-room-style space for connection, recovery, and leadership-building conversations
For the founders of HUSTL Sports Performance, the mission has always been about more than wins and workouts.
“We want youth athletes to feel safe, supported, and confident — regardless of sport,” said former MLB player Grayson Greiner, noting that HUSTL combines elite instruction, modern technology, and a passion for developing athletes on and off the field.
That philosophy is echoed by Travis Tourville, who says families are looking for more than just results. “Our responsibility goes beyond performance. It’s about shaping leaders, teammates, and young people who carry what they learn here into every part of their lives.”
Former NFL player Pat DiMarco agrees. “HUSTL is about more than speed, strength, and skill,” he said. “It’s about creating a place where young athletes can grow, build confidence, and learn how to compete the right way.”
That mindset shows up through mentorship, optional faith-driven Bible studies, volunteer partnerships across Columbia, and wellness seminars focused on nutrition, recovery, and mindset. Athletes learn how to show up — for themselves and for each other.
And this is just the beginning
Later in 2026, HUSTL Athletic Club will launch as an adult-only training and recovery destination, extending the same culture and standards to the broader community.
Psst… a limited number of Founding Memberships go live Monday, Feb. 2, with doors opening March 2. Ready to lean in?
Nick Emmanwori was a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. | Photo by Gamecock Athletics
The Super Bowl is set, and two former Gamecocks helped anchor the Seahawks’ defense as Seattle advanced to face the Patriots in Super Bowl LX. Rookie safety Nick Emmanwori — an Irmo High School alum — emerged this season as a standout defender alongside Ernest Jones IV, the former USC linebacker and All-Pro leader of Seattle’s unit.
Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at Levi’s Field in Santa Clara, CA on Sunday, Feb. 8. Watch for numbers 3 + 13 on the Hawks.
In South Carolina, the Education Lottery is more than just a game — it’s a powerful tool reshaping education. | Photo provided by South Carolina Education Lottery
The impact of the South Carolina Education Lottery reaches far beyond the numbers on a ticket — it’s helping shape the future of education across the state.
Just ask Caleb Brown and Montrel Coles, two South Carolina teachers whose journeys were supported in part by lottery-funded LIFE scholarships. Today, they’re paying that opportunity forward in classrooms where representation, mentorship, and community matter most.
Brown now teaches at Riverside High School, bringing his passion for learning back to the community that helped shape him. For Coles, a teacher at Carvers Bay Middle School, the scholarship opened the door to the Call Me MISTER program, which focuses on recruiting and retaining male teachers, especially in underserved areas.
Coles says seeing educators who looked like him made a lasting difference, and he’s proud to now be that example for his students. Together, their stories highlight how lottery-funded scholarships don’t just support higher education — they strengthen South Carolina’s schools from the inside out.
Over the weekend, the Gamecocks women’s basketball team bounced back after an overtime loss to Oklahoma with a 27-point win over No. 5 Vanderbilt. USC travels to Auburn for a 9 p.m. game Thursday, Jan 29, on the SEC Network.
Coming Soon
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice — a Florida-based chain known for its 40+ rotating Italian ice flavors and soft serve — will open Friday, Feb. 2 on South Lake Drive in Red Bank. Take a look at the “flavorites,” so you’ll know what to order.
Network
Join business leaders, innovators, and former NFL players for Breakout Sessions at Venture X on Wednesday, Feb. 4 from 5-7 p.m. The event features a fireside chat on leadership, followed by sessions on mindset, AI, and personal growth.
Try This
Think you can hit the high note? The Columbia Fireflies are auditioning singers and musicians to perform the national anthem during their 10th anniversary season. February auditions are by reservation only, and you can email to book your spot.
Number
$389,640 — that’s how much went to 45 SC nonprofits last year through Aflac’s charitable fund at Central Carolina Community Foundation. The funding supported health care, education, and community services.
Cause
La-Z-Boy is donating 60+ gently used furniture items to Oliver Gospel this week. Proceeds from sales at Oliver Gospel Thrift Store support shelter, counseling, and outreach for Midlands neighbors experiencing homelessness.
Job
You’re three times more likely to get hired with GetHiredNow, TopResume’s personalized job placement service that reduces job-search friction, time, and stress. Pay one fee + get dedicated one-on-one support until you’re hired — guaranteed. Explore plans and book a consultation.*
Shop
If we could only buy one thing this month? We’d buy two — a two-piece set, that is. Eliminate outfit guesswork + look instantly put together with this best-selling comfy travel set, or turn the cozy up a notch with this knit loungewear set.*
Cause
The winter storm has severely impacted the region’s blood supply, creating an urgent need for donors. Those who donate blood can earn $70 in TBC Rewards. Every donation counts — patients are waiting, and lifesaving help is needed now.Learn more + donate.*
Learn
Landscaping pros are invited to a free event on Feb. 6 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hosted by Columbia Water and Richland County Stormwater, this collaborative workshop offers practical tips and insights for professionals. Registration is required — learn more + sign up.*
Category
Eat
🎆 The Taste of Lake Murray returns
Taste local bites and dance the night away at this annual fundraising event. | Photo by Capital City/Lake Murray Country
If you enjoy the annual Independence Day fireworks over Lake Murray, this is an event you’ll want to support.
Taste of Lake Murray returns at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 26, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia. The event is the sole fundraiser for Lake Murray’s Independence Day Celebration, the longtime summer tradition produced by Capital City/Lake Murray Country since 1989.
This year’s “party with a purpose” adds a patriotic twist, tying into America’s 250th anniversary with patriotic themes throughout the evening. The tasting lineup includes new additions, including Cola’s, Ember, Mother’s Oysters and Pies, SouthShore Grill and Grocery, and TakoSushi, alongside a lineup of returning favorites.
Tickets are on sale now for the fundraiser, which includes live music, a silent auction, and the debut of the Liberty Lounge, an outdoor area with a DJ, food trucks, and locally sourced foods.
The Buy
One of our favorite on-the-go essentials: deodorizing body wipes. We stash them in our car + purse because you never know when you’ll need a quick little refresh.
Thursday, Jan. 29 is a great day to take a break from the kitchen and order a pie from Village Idiot Pizza. Proceeds from the sales that night go to Sistercare and the Cola Rose Shower on Saturday, Feb. 7. The specialty pizza fits the theme with a cheesy pink sauce topped with mozzarella, salami, roasted red peppers, and feta.
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