PHOTOS: Gamecock softball dominates in the Gamecock Invitational going 5-0 to start the season

The University of South Carolina softball team has started its season 5-0 with new head coach Ashley Chastain Woodard. The Gamecocks hosted many teams in the opening weekend Gamecock Invitational that started Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025 and lasted through Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025. The Gamecocks had a successful weekend, defeating Virginia 7-6 and 5-4, Providence 8-0, Saint Francis 7-0 and East Carolina 1-0. The Gamecocks showed impressive teamwork after having a multitude of new members join the team this past off-season. The Gamecocks will continue its season on Feb. 13, 2025, when it faces off against Georgia State.

Senior infielder Brooke Blankenship celebrates as she scored the walkoff homerun for the Gamecocks against Virginia on Feb. 7, 2025. The home run was the first of the season for Blankenship.

Sophomore infielder Karley Shelton catches the ball at second base during the game against Virginia on Feb. 6, 2025. The Gamecocks defeated the Cavaliers 7-6.

Redshirt junior utility player Quincee Lilio lays down on bunt against Virginia on Feb. 7, 2025. Lilio transferred after playing for the national champions Oklahoma.

Junior catcher Lexi Winters smiles as she prepares for the inning behind the plate on Feb. 9, 2025. The Gamecocks defeated the Friars 8-0 in five innings.

The South Carolina Gamecock softball team prepares to play against East Carolina on Feb. 9, 2025. The Gamecocks beat the Pirates 1-0.

Junior infielder Arianna Rodi prepares for the ball in the game against Virginia on Feb. 7, 2025. Rodi is one of six transfers from Charlotte.

Sixth-year outfielder Abigail Knight runs toward third base during the game against Virginia on Feb. 6, 2025. Knight batted 0.750 and scored one run.

Sophomore infielder Karley Shelton hits the ball of a Virginia pitcher on Feb. 7, 2025. Shelton is the only starter for the Gamecocks that has started her collegiate carrer at the University of South Carolina.

Gamecock softball players return to the dugout at Beckham Field after closing out the inning against Providence on Feb. 8, 2025. This was one of five games the Gamecocks played as a part of the Gamecock Invitational.

Sixth-year pitcher Sam Gress and sophomore pitcher Nealy Lamb hug before the game against East Carolina on Feb 9, 2025. The Gamecocks defeated the Pirates in the last game of the Gamecock Invitational.