Shane Beamer gives ultimate assist to long-time South Carolina reporter

There are moments in sports that make your heart race, and then there are moments that make your heart melt.

This week, South Carolina reporter Mike Uva found himself at the goal line of one of the most touching plays of his life, and it had nothing to do with the final score or a fourth-quarter comeback.

Uva, a voice that so many fans have come to trust and a familiar face to Gamecock Nation—and Bojangles' biscuits— pulled off a surprise proposal to his lovely girlfriend Brooke, that will be talked about in Columbia for years to come.

And the assist? It came from none other than South Carolina head football coach Shane Beamer.

In a beautifully orchestrated play, Beamer reached out to Uva with what seemed like a typical work-related request, to swing by WIlliams-Brice Stadium for a quick meet-up. Nothing unusual for someone whose job is rooted in the heartbeat of Gamecock football.

But what happened next had nothing to do with introductions or press obligations, and everything to do with love, loyalty, patience, and the family this Gamecock community has become.

As Mike and his girlfriend Brooke arrived at the stadium, she thought they were just stopping for a quick routine media stop and a fun photo op. Instead, she walked straight into the biggest question of her life.

There, in the heart of Gamecock country, under the same Carolina sky that has seen decades of cheers, heartbreaks, and history— Mike Uva dropped to one knee and asked the woman he loves to be his forever to thee. And she said YES!

In a video that has brought Gamecock Nation to tears of joy, it was a moment that was made even more special by the man who helped make it happen. Shane Beamer, a coach known for his authenticity, who puts his heart into the team, and has a deep connection with the Gamecock community, didn't hesitate to play a role in something so personal, so intimate, so perfectly unexpected. The ultimate play. Beamer didn't just assist with this proposal, he helped create a memory that speaks to what makes this program, this school, this coach, and this community so special.

Mike Uva has spent years telling Gamecock stories to others. And now it is his turn. And fittingly, this love story continues in the same place he and Brooke met, a stadium where dreams are chased, and legends are born.

Congratulations, Mike and your beautiful bride-to-be! From the bottom of Gamecock hearts everywhere-- thank you for letting us all be part of your love story. Because around here, it really does mean more.