Cornhole, the popular backyard game that involves tossing bean bags onto a raised platform, is taking a big leap forward. What was once a casual pastime enjoyed at barbecues and tailgate parties is now becoming a collegiate sport. High school seniors Jaxson Remmick and Gavin Hamann have made history by signing letters of intent to play cornhole at Winthrop University, a Division I school in North Carolina. They are the first student athletes to ever sign with a school specifically for cornhole.
Remmick and Hamann are no ordinary cornhole players. They are two-time Cornhole League High School National champions and are considered five-star prospects. They have showcased their skills and proven their talent in various competitions. As a result, they have earned scholarships that will cover half of their tuition, according to The Washington Post.
The rise of cornhole as a competitive sport is not surprising considering its increasing popularity over the years. What started as a simple backyard game has evolved into a televised tournament, with the American Cornhole League Single World Championships drawing over 180,000 viewers on ESPN in August 2023. This surge in interest has paved the way for cornhole to be recognized as a legitimate sport, with professional leagues even airing on ESPN.
While cornhole is not yet sanctioned by the NCAA, Winthrop University coach Dusty Thompson recognized the potential in Remmick and Hamann and saw an opportunity to build a powerhouse program. Thompson was impressed by their skills, as they had defeated 10 professional players and the world champions from the past two years. Although the team at Winthrop currently competes at the club level, they participate in tournaments organized by other organizations.
The inclusion of cornhole as a collegiate sport opens up new opportunities for aspiring athletes who excel in the game. It provides recognition and legitimacy to a sport that was once seen as a casual backyard activity. It also highlights the growing interest in non-traditional sports and the potential for talented individuals to pursue their passions at a higher level.
For Remmick and Hamann, signing with Winthrop University is a dream come true. They never imagined that their love for cornhole would take them this far. Their journey serves as an inspiration to other aspiring athletes who may excel in unconventional sports. It proves that with dedication, skill, and the right opportunities, anything is possible.
As cornhole continues to gain recognition and popularity, we can expect to see more colleges and universities embracing the sport and offering scholarships to talented players. This will not only elevate the status of cornhole but also provide more opportunities for athletes to pursue their passion and showcase their skills on a competitive stage.
The inclusion of cornhole as a collegiate sport is a significant milestone for the game and its players. It marks a new era for cornhole, where it is no longer seen as just a backyard pastime but a legitimate sport with opportunities for athletes to excel and compete at the highest level. Remmick and Hamann’s signing with Winthrop University is just the beginning of a promising future for cornhole in the world of collegiate sports.
