Athletic Trainer Awarded Game Ball After Clemson Defeated South Carolina

In a display of resilience and teamwork, the Clemson Tigers, led by coach Dabo Swinney, overcame a challenging week marked by a flu outbreak to secure a 16-7 win over South Carolina.

In a gesture that reflects the spirit of the team, Swinney awarded a special game ball to their unlikely hero: second-year.

Battling the Flu

The days leading up to the game were nothing short of a crisis for Clemson. Swinney revealed in his postgame news conference the extent of the flu outbreak that had swept through the team.

"It was a crazy week for us," he said, noting that very few players were able to practice.

The situation was so dire that 12 players needed IVs after the team breakfast on Saturday to stay hydrated and healthy enough to play.

The Unsung Hero: Pat Richards

Recognizing the extraordinary efforts of Pat Richards and his staff in navigating these tough circumstances, Swinney awarded him the game ball.

Richards' role was pivotal in managing the health crisis, which Swinney described as having “bad news every single day.”

The flu bug hit the team hard, with even assistant coaches Thomas Austin and Nick Eason falling ill.

The “Sick Vans” and Shipley’s Return

Clemson's prep for the game was unconventional, with "sick vans" designated for the trip and key players like running back Will Shipley and backup quarterback Hunter Helms missing significant practice time.

Shipley, who didn’t start, made a notable impact with 80 rushing yards and four catches for 32 yards.

A Month of Triumph

Swinney also praised his team's toughness, highlighting their unbeaten streak through November, including victories over Notre Dame, Georgia Tech, and North Carolina.

This success came after a challenging start to the season, with the team bouncing back from a 4-4 start.

Clemson's victory over South Carolina is a story of overcoming adversity and the importance of every member of a team.

This game served as a testament to their ability to triumph over challenges, both on and off the field.

The recognition of Athletic Trainer Pat Richards highlights the integral role of healthcare staff in sports.

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