Inaugural rugby competition spotlights community and remembrance in Columbia, SC
February 26, 2026
Experience Columbia SC Sports stands beside the University of South Carolina Rugby community as they host the inaugural BIG E Memorial Invitational on Saturday, March 28. The event consists of a full day of collegiate rugby competition followed by an evening fundraiser honoring former player Erik “Big E” Elken.
Beginning with a multi-team rugby tournament featuring programs from across the region, the day concludes with a ticketed benefit reception at Runway 728 to include food, drinks, live music and a program celebrating Erik’s life and lasting legacy.
Erik, known to most as “Big E,” was a devoted teammate, fierce competitor and someone who brought optimism and light into every room he entered. In January 2025, what began as an MRI to confirm a hip injury instead revealed a rare and aggressive sarcoma in his femur, with additional involvement in surrounding tissue and lymph nodes. He underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy and extensive surgery while remaining deeply connected to his faith, his teammates and the game he loved. Erik passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on November 18, 2025, at the age of 22.
“This event reflects who Erik was: competitive, community-driven and full of heart,” said a member of the planning committee. “We want to bring people together through rugby while supporting initiatives that were meaningful to him.”
“We are incredibly grateful to support an event that honors Erik’s memory while bringing the rugby community together for something bigger than the game itself,” said Anna Gasperecz Talley, sports development manager for ECSC Sports. “Welcoming teams to Columbia from other states shows how sports can unite communities, support important causes and create a lasting impact both on and off the field.”
Proceeds from the BIG E Invitational will support initiatives connected to Erik’s legacy, including cancer-related causes and efforts to expand access and opportunity in youth rugby.
Organizers are inviting the broader Columbia community, rugby supporters, alumni, families and local businesses to learn more, get involved and show support through sponsorships and charitable contributions. Sponsorship opportunities can be found here and donations can be made here.
For real time updates on event details and locations, please visit https://www.erikbige.com/. For additional information, media inquiries or sponsorship questions, please contact the event committee at [email protected].
About BIG E Memorial Invitational
The BIG E Memorial Invitational is held in honor of Erik “Big E” Elken, a brother and rugby player who passed away following a battle with sarcoma. In Erik’s memory, the goal of this event is to build a competitive, high-level rugby tournament that also serves a meaningful cause and leaves a lasting impact beyond the pitch.
About Experience Columbia SC Sports
The mission of Experience Columbia SC Sports is to strengthen the area’s economy by marketing and selling the region as a premier destination for sporting events, partnering with local sports organizations to grow and develop existing events and recruiting new events that provide an economic benefit to the region by generating room nights, food and beverage sales and associated tax revenues. For more information, please visit www.columbiascsports.com.
