Staley living out his dream

Columbia native Damani Staley is officially following the family path and living out his lifelong dream.

The three-star linebacker signed his national letter of intent last Wednesday at Ridge View High School to officially become a Gamecock in the fall.

“It feels great,” Staley said after putting pen to paper. “I’ve been waiting for this day my whole life and it’s always been a dream of mine to come here since I was little.”

Not only is Staley staying close to home, but he’s following his dad’s footsteps. His father, Duce, was a standout during his time at South Carolina, which led him to a successful career with the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Staley has had his own success during his time in high school. He recorded 120 tackles, 29 sacks and 51.5 tackles for a loss in his senior season alone.

Staley will have a bit of an adjustment coming into Williams-Brice this year.

He played primarily defensive end during high school but will take on a linebacker role in college.

“It’s a little bit of an adjustment," Staley said. "I’ve been [getting] accustomed to it for the past few years so I’ve gotten a little better. It’s just a whole different process.”

Head coach Perry Parks said he’s seen incredible work from Staley and has no doubt with time he’ll be able to compete in the SEC.

Parks has been a big part in turning this Ridge View program around and Staley is grateful to have learned under him.

“Ever since he got here he’s helped me with stuff I need to do, especially with linebacker since I was new to it,” Staley said. “He’s helped me out a lot in tough times so I appreciate it all.”

After hearing his father talk about playing in Columbia and taking his own visits there, Staley cannot wait to step onto that field and be a Gamecock.

“I feel like being in Williams-Brice, the atmosphere, the crowd," Staley said. "I remember the first time coming to a game and being on the field, I felt the excitement so I’m so excited to be apart of that.”

Rivals.com ranked Staley the No. 14 recruit in the state.