In March, East Carolina University’s (ECU) baseball team engages in a distinctive fundraising event, Mustache March, aimed at supporting ALS research.
This initiative is a tribute to Keith LeClair, a former ECU baseball coach who was diagnosed with ALS while in his coaching tenure. ECU’s baseball community, including players, staff, and affiliate colleges like Pitt Community College and Clemson, rally together to foster awareness and raise funds for the cause, with hopes to amass $15,000 this year.
Commitment to a Legacy
LeClair’s influence remains a guiding light for the program; under his leadership, ECU achieved substantial milestones, creating a lasting impact on his players and colleagues. His coaching career at ECU concluded with a record that positions him as the fourth most successful coach in the school’s history.
Growth of Support and Funds
The mustache-growing event, which spans the entirety of March, is one of the central avenues through which funds are raised for ALS research. Since the commencement of this tradition in 2016, the ECU baseball team has collected over $75,000, a figure bolstered by contributions from partners like ECU Dowdy Student Stores, culminating in total donations exceeding $100,000.
Keith LeClair Classic
Coinciding with the start of the fundraising month, the 21st consecutive Keith LeClair Classic baseball tournament kicks off, featuring teams such as East Carolina, Cal State Fullerton, Purdue, and Southeastern Louisiana. Donations to support the cause can be made online during this period.
Coach LeClair’s Enduring Vision
Despite being stricken with ALS, LeClair’s vision for ECU baseball was unyielding: to clinch a victory at the College World Series in Omaha. His resoluteness resulted in four NCAA Regional appearances, three Colonial Athletic Association championships, and a Conference USA title. His legacy extends beyond his coaching achievements, as the baseball community at ECU and beyond continue to honor his mission and values.
In Remembrance
LeClair’s battle with ALS ended in 2006. His death left behind his spouse, Lynn, and their two children, Audrey and J.D. However, his spirit and aspiration for ECU baseball continue to inspire commitment toward ALS research and community unity.
Editorial Credit: jpellgen / Flickr
Do they do events like this every year? I’d love to participate when I join ECU!