Loïc Sany Kong, a forward for the University of South Carolina men's soccer team, was recognized as the Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Week on August 25, following a standout performance that helped the Gamecocks open their season with a 4‑1 victory over North Florida.
A Breakout Performance
The win, played on August 20 in Jacksonville, saw Kong net two goals and set up another, becoming the first time in his collegiate career that he recorded multiple points in a single match. His second goal came just 19 seconds after the Gamecocks forced a turnover on the ensuing kickoff, capping a swift 54th‑minute strike that put the team ahead.
Kong’s contributions extended beyond the score sheet; he took a free‑kick that Angel Lopez deflected home in the 66th minute, and his overall effort helped the team amass three goals and seven points for the season, positioning him as the early offensive leader.
The momentum carries into the next test, a much‑anticipated Palmetto Series showdown against Clemson scheduled for August 28 at 7 p.m. at Stone Stadium in Columbia, where the Gamecocks will look to extend their early‑season form.