Horry Telephone Cooperative, Inc., (HTC) has become a major donor to Brooks Stadium at Coastal Carolina University, it was announced today.

The HTC Media Center on the top floor of the football stadium will be equipped with state-of-the art telecommunications equipment to aid in complete coverage of home Chanticleer games.

The donation includes an in-kind gift of telecommunications equipment and services, plus a substantial monetary investment.

The HTC Media Center will allow members of the press, game officials and sports information staff to access a complete communications network that includes high-speed Internet access for computer connections, copy and fax machines on each of the two levels plus seating for more than 40 members of the media or staff.

"HTC is delighted to be a part of this new facility and the inaugural season of Coastal Carolina Football," said Curley P. Huggins, chief executive officer of HTC. "Coastal Carolina is a key business customer for HTC and plays a vital role in our whole community. By investing in the development of Coastal Carolina University, we are investing in our community and improving the quality of life of those we serve."

CCU Athletic Director Warren Koegel said, "With the help of our communications partner, HTC, this press area will be a well-organized center of activity. We will provide vital information as the game progresses and even be able to input play-by-play statistics into the computers as the events occur." A kitchen and dining area is also included in the media center, he added.

The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers are gearing up for the inaugural football game on Sept. 6 against Newberry College.