ABC Columbia MVP Willie Cornelius

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — Willie Cornelius is the definition of giving back to the kids in his local community. Since 1974, Coach Cornelius has operated a spring break and summer sports camp for Richland County children. Cornelius is an employee for the county and uses his free time to run these camps. Cornelius credits his wife for the success of the operation and is all about “tough love” when it comes to sending a message to his kids. He uses motivational speeches, guest speakers, to deliver the message of good grades in school and to keep kids off the streets away from drugs and violence. Some of the kids he has coached include: Xavier McDaniel, former NBA player, Jackson Edwards, son of Brad Edwards who is the AD at Newberry College, Brandon Sanders, Olympic Hopeful for track, Dustin Johnson, Professional Golfer on the PGA Tour. If you would like more information on the camps or would like to sponsor or donate, you can call the Richland County Recreation Commission at (803) 754-6720.