Rutledge's Dream

Rutledge’s first day started with a MASSIVE surprise for Rutledge at his house. His extended family and the University of South Carolina Collegiate Dream Team came hands full with posters, signs, and a huge bundle of balloons! His face lit up with excitement, and he continued to smile ear to ear for the entire day!

Rutledge and his family piled into the van and we made our way to Target for a shopping spree. He furthered his LEGO obsession by picking out several sets, stuffed animals, and lots of other toys for his sisters and himself. We stuffed the van full with the new toys and headed to Rutledge’s favorite restaurant, McDonald’s! Cheeseburgers and fries filled the crew’s bellies.

After lunch, we headed to the hotel. Rutledge was surprised once again with a full University of South Carolina decorated room, snacks, and even a LEGO set of the William-Brice Football Stadium, thanks to the wonderful staff at the Columbia Graduate Hotels! After a well deserved nap, the crew planned an indoor picnic with the CDT. Dinner was donated by Idiot Pizza, who gave us the best pizza party ever.

Then, it was off to the South Carolina Women’s Soccer game, who were hosting the first round of the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament. Rutledge and his family have become major fans of Gamecocks Women’s Soccer since a number of the CDT members are a part of the team. The crew yelled and cheered while watching the team bring home the win and advance to the next round of the tournament. Rutledge even got to see the press box and some of the players after the game. We went back to the hotel to get a good night’s rest to prepare for another full day of Dream Mojo!