CONWAY, S.C. — Coastal Carolina Athletics has announced a $1 million gift from Chuck and Jackie Tenney to support the Chanticleers' football program. In recognition of their generosity, the balcony within the Marrio & Josh Norman Field House will be named the Chuck & Jackie Tenney Family Balcony.
Originally from Ohio, the Tenney family relocated to the Myrtle Beach area in the late 1990s and has since built deep roots along the Grand Strand. While their connection to Coastal Carolina began through their daughter, Amanda, a proud alum, the family's relationship with the University has grown steadily over the years through service, support, and a shared belief in its mission and the role athletics plays in shaping the student experience and building community.
The Tenney family's gift represents a significant investment in Coastal Carolina Football, supporting the continued growth of the program and enhancing the overall student-athlete experience. The naming of the Chuck & Jackie Tenney Family Balcony will serve as a lasting symbol of the family's dedication to the University and its student-athletes.
"This gift is transformational for Coastal Football and for our university," said Coastal Carolina Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and University Recreation Chance Miller. "Chuck and Jackie Tenney are helping change the trajectory of our program and our institution through their belief, their generosity, and the way they show up for Coastal every day. Whether they are in the stands on game day, traveling with our team, or spending time with our student-athletes and staff, it always feels like family. The Tenneys are family, and their impact will be lasting for generations."
For the Tenney family, the decision to give was rooted in a desire to leave a meaningful and lasting family legacy.
"Having lived and worked in the area since the inception of Coastal Carolina football, our family is proud to play a small part in ensuring its continued growth and success for generations to come," Chuck and Jackie Tenney said. "Our family has grown alongside the University over the years. We have been blessed with the opportunity to contribute both through past and future alumni as well as by providing contractor services for various dormitories."
Coastal Carolina University President James J. Winebrake emphasized the broader significance of the gift to the institution and the community it serves.
"The Tenney family exemplifies the spirit of generosity and community that defines Coastal Carolina University," Winebrake said. "Their investment strengthens not only our football program, but also our ability to provide exceptional opportunities for our students and student-athletes."
Coastal Carolina head football coach Ryan Beard highlighted the impact of the Tenney family's support as the program continues to build toward the future.
"The Tenney family's commitment speaks volumes about their belief in our program and the student-athletes we serve," Beard said. "This gift strengthens what we are building every day and directly supports the experience we want our student-athletes to have, both on and off the field."
The Tenney family's connection to Coastal Carolina continues to expand. Amanda is now a local school teacher, while their son Ryan has been involved with the University's golf program through his high school FFA chapter. In addition, an extended family member is preparing to attend Coastal Carolina this fall, with hopes that more family members will follow in the years ahead.
The Chuck & Jackie Tenney Family Balcony will stand as a permanent reminder of the family's commitment to Coastal Carolina University and their belief in the power of athletics to build community, tradition, and opportunity.
