Adaway Steps into Leadership Role Beyond the Field

In a recent development, South Carolina graduate student and running back Oscar Adaway III has been appointed as the chairman of the SEC Football Leadership Council. Known for navigating obstacles on the field, Adaway is now facing the challenge of representing student-athletes in a new capacity off the field.

“I was chosen to represent our team,” Adaway shared. “Then, once I got to the council, they selected a chairman for all 16 teams. Every team has its own leadership council, so it’s a huge honor to be in this position.”

As chairman, Adaway plays a crucial role in facilitating communication between student-athletes and key stakeholders like the NCAA and SEC. He’ll be responsible for gathering feedback from other teams and conveying it to SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, who, according to Adaway, has always been attentive to the voices of athletes.

“The feedback we get from the teams is really important,” Adaway said. “We share what we hear from the NCAA and SEC, then bring back the thoughts from our teams. Commissioner Greg Sankey really listens to us. He’s always done a great job of that.”

The SEC Student-Athlete Leadership Councils offer athletes a platform to connect with university administrators, conference office staff, and raise concerns or propose changes. Although much of the focus lately has been on NIL, other topics, such as game celebrations, have also been at the forefront of discussions.

“One of the biggest things we talked about at the council meeting in Alabama was celebrations during games,” Adaway explained. “It might sound minor, but it’s something that could change the game. We’re likely going to see more allowed celebrations now. SEC referees stated we can’t spike the ball because they want the game to move quickly, but just about everything else will be okay.”

However, some restrictions remain. Players can’t mimic celebrations of rival teams, like Texas’ “horns down,” and excessive celebrations in opponents’ faces are prohibited. But players can express themselves with their teammates, and Adaway hinted at potential team celebrations that could bring even more fun to the game.

“I think we’ll see some wild celebrations,” Adaway said. “You might see a five-man celebration with a dance like the Temptations’ routine. It’s going to be exciting because college football didn’t allow that kind of freedom before.”

Reflecting on his role, Adaway expressed the significance of his new position. “I believe I can make an impact,” he said. “Becoming the chairman of the Leadership Council is important for me.”

A North Little Rock, Ark. native, Adaway has contributed significantly to the Gamecocks’ football team, playing in 13 games with two starts in their successful nine-win season. His performance was highlighted by a 36-yard touchdown run in the Citrus Bowl against Illinois. However, Adaway hopes to make an even greater impact off the field through his leadership and experience, leveraging his education to create change within the administration.

“I’ve been fortunate that I haven’t had to pay for my education,” he said. “Hopefully, I can earn another degree in my final year, which would be amazing. When it comes to applying for jobs, it would be a unique advantage to say I have three degrees while no one else applying does.”

Adaway is also focused on finishing his academic career strong. He already holds a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and will complete his master’s in coaching education this May. As his last season of college football approaches, he’s eager to make the most of it.

“This is my final year of college football,” Adaway said. “I’m looking forward to enjoying the game and hopefully achieving more with the team. Last year, winning nine games was one of the best experiences of my life, and I want to replicate that success this year.”