News Summary
Rock Hill, South Carolina, is set to be a centerpiece in Google’s Super Bowl advertisement as part of the ’50 Stories, 50 States’ campaign. This highlights how small businesses, particularly the American Cornhole League (ACL), are making use of artificial intelligence. The ACL has evolved cornhole into a competitive televised sport in just eight years, showcasing the potential of small businesses in today’s digital age. The campaign is a testament to the growth and opportunities for remote communities and sports.
Rock Hill, SC: The Cornhole Capital Takes Center Stage in Google’s Super Bowl Spotlight!
In a bustling twist that has the small business community buzzing, Rock Hill, South Carolina, is gearing up to feature prominently in Google’s much-anticipated Super Bowl advertisement. This is not just any ad; it’s part of Google’s “50 Stories, 50 States” campaign, highlighting how small businesses across the nation are leveraging the wonders of artificial intelligence. And what better ambassador for this campaign than the American Cornhole League (ACL), which proudly calls Rock Hill its home?
Cornhole’s Journey from Backyard Fun to Televised Glory
The ACL has transformed the once humble backyard game into a thrilling televised sport, creating a path towards professional play. Founded just eight years ago, the ACL has pulled off an impressive evolution, drawing crowds and even TV deals as more people discover the excitement of cornhole. The incorporation of AI has turbocharged their growth, enabling them to cater to fans and players alike effectively.
The Backbone of the American Economy
Speaking of small businesses, it’s fascinating to note that these enterprises represent the backbone of the American economy, with a staggering 99% of them using at least one tech platform. A recent report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce illuminates the trajectory, showing that a solid 40% of small businesses, particularly in the Carolinas, are tapping into generative AI tools to stimulate growth. This rapidly evolving technological embrace reflects a larger trend where small businesses are thriving and adapting in a digital age.
The Rise of Competitive Cornhole
Among the champions of this sport is Cheyenne Bubenheim, a formidable player who aspires to break ground as the first woman to win a championship in the ACL’s gender-neutral pro singles division. With three titles under her belt as a women’s singles world champion and standing tall as the world’s top-ranking female cornhole player, it is no wonder that she’s leading the charge in this competitive scene.
Bubenheim’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Since she turned professional five years ago, she has raked in a handsome $90,000 in prize money alone, not counting sponsorships. Last year, even while expecting her son, she managed to accumulate approximately $77,000. However, she’s not just a talent—she’s a beacon of inspiration for many, showing that women can compete fiercely in a predominately male-dominated field.
A Growing Scene with Opportunities for All
While the ACL boasts players from ages as young as 12 to as seasoned as 69, there is a noticeable disparity in professional participation: only about 32 women compete at the professional level compared to around 200 men. This highlights the potential for growth and winning opportunities for female competitors in a vibrant community.
Exciting Events Filling the Calendar
And let’s talk about events! The ACL is in the midst of an explosion of popularity, not just locally but nationally. They are gearing up for a variety of exciting competitions, including the Armed Forces event as part of ESPN8: The Ocho, which promotes quirky sports. Rock Hill itself is buzzing with excitement about the upcoming slippery stairs competition and other niche sports that promise to entertain audiences of all ages.
Adding another layer of thrilling competition, Winthrop University, also located in Rock Hill, is stepping up to support those passionate about cornhole by offering over $80,000 in scholarships to athletes on its competitive cornhole team! This initiative demonstrates a commitment to growing talent in this unique sport.
Shaping Tomorrow’s Sports Landscape
The spotlight on the ACL during the Super Bowl is a testament to how far cornhole has come and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. This is a thrilling moment not only for Rock Hill but for small businesses everywhere, proving that with the right tools, the sky is the limit.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Winthrop University Faces Challenges Amid Federal Financial Aid Pause
Winthrop University Launches Doctoral Program and New Degrees
Winthrop University Pioneers Athletic Scholarships for Cornhole
Winthrop University Launches New Cornhole Program
Rock Hill Teacher Completes Journey to All 46 SC Counties
Additional Resources
- WCCB Charlotte
- Post and Courier
- Charlotte Observer
- AP News
- Washington Post
- Wikipedia: Cornhole
- Google Search: cornhole
- Google Scholar: cornhole
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cornhole
- Google News: cornhole
