Hometown pride was at fever pitch as the national champion Chanticleers returned home after the College World Series final game on June 30. When the plane touched down at Myrtle Beach International Airport, thousands of well-wishers were on hand to meet the hero-athletes—far exceeding the size of the crowd that was expected for the midnight event. The following day offered a triumphal parade in downtown Conway, where the whole town was covered in teal, even down to the Trestle’s cupcake frosting. The festivities culminated with a homecoming celebration at the packed Springs Brooks Stadium where fans met the coaches and players and had a chance to get their pictures made with the championship trophy.
