Former South Carolina volleyball standout Cindy “Big Red” Esposito reflects on her time as a Gamecock in the mid-1990s and the impact of her nickname. Esposito, known for her dominant play and towering presence on the court, was a fan favorite with her flowing red hair and 6’1″ stature. She reminisces about the “ball heads” fan group at Carolina volleyball games who created chants and cheers for her, solidifying her persona as Big Red.
Despite her success on the court, Esposito also enjoyed having fun and staying relaxed during games, believing that a relaxed mindset led to better performance. She recalls earning All-SEC honors in 1996 and helping the Gamecocks make three NCAA Tournament appearances during her four years at South Carolina. While she didn’t have the opportunities with Name, Image, and Likeness that student-athletes have today, she still embraced her nickname by wearing it on a t-shirt and joining an intramural basketball team with Big Red on her jersey.
Now working as a computer science teacher and high school volleyball coach, Esposito remains passionate about the sport and enjoys passing on her knowledge to young athletes. With her husband and two children, she continues to cherish her time as Big Red and the support she received from fans during her time at South Carolina. Esposito’s love for the game and dedication to coaching showcase her ongoing commitment to the sport that shaped her career.
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Photo credit gamecocksonline.com