GREENVILLE, NC. – ECU Athletics and the Pirate Club are thrilled to officially announce the successful completion of the ambitious $1 million matching gift challenge, spearheaded by Bill Clark Homes, aimed at financing the new Dick and Sarah Bennett Baseball Building. This innovative dollar-for-dollar matching initiative has inspired a remarkable response, with 440 members of the Pirate Nation stepping up to contribute, raising over $1 million in fresh donations within a mere two weeks.
“We cannot thank Pirate Nation enough for their continued investment and support of our department,” exclaimed ECU Director of Athletics Jon Gilbert. “The generosity demonstrated by Bill Clark Homes, along with leaders Lance Clark and Heath Clark, will undoubtedly leave a monumental and lasting impact on past, current, and future Pirates. We eagerly anticipate bringing this extraordinary project to fruition.”
Donors who contributed $100 or more will receive an exclusive commemorative gift, as shipments are set to commence next week for those who have met their pledges. As part of the ambitious Pirates Unite Campaign, participants will also earn double priority points for their generous investments. The Pirate Club remains open to accepting additional gifts to support this pivotal project.
ECU Head Baseball Coach Cliff Godwin expressed his immense gratitude, stating, “We are incredibly grateful to the Pirate Club members who responded to the challenge and the individuals and businesses who previously donated to this important project. Bill Clark Homes and the entire team led by Lance and Heath Clark are true game changers for our program. The facility will shape our program’s future in so many ways. Go Pirates!”
Bill Clark Homes, under the leadership of co-owners Lance and Heath Clark, previously made the largest investment in the Pirate Club’s 63-year history. This critical funding played a pivotal role in finalizing the financial backing needed for the Isley Indoor Performance Center, propelling the baseball project to successful completion.
“Pirate Nation always responds, and this campaign is a testament to what we can accomplish together,” remarked Lance Clark. “With the indoor facility and the new baseball building moving forward, I know ECU Athletics can continue advancing initiatives in NIL and other essential areas in collegiate athletics.”
“I can’t wait to see this building completed and witness its impact on recruiting, training, and student-athlete development,” added Heath Clark. “Our athletes will now have access to a state-of-the-art facility to train in and play year-round.”
The Pirates Unite Campaign for Comprehensive Excellence, initiated in 2022, has successfully raised over $41 million thanks to the unwavering loyalty and dedication of Pirate Club members. Numerous projects have been fully funded through the Pirates Unite Campaign, showcasing the collective strength of the Pirate community.
To contribute to the baseball building expansion through the Pirates Unite Campaign, please click here or call the Pirate Club at (252) 737-4540.
Talent development examples
Contributed to this initiative. This new Baseball Building will provide our players with state-of-the-art facilities that will enhance their training and development. It’s a game-changer for our program and will help us recruit top talent.”
**Interview with Cliff Godwin, Head Baseball Coach at ECU**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Coach Godwin. Can you tell us how you felt when you learned that the $1 million matching gift challenge was successfully completed?
**Cliff Godwin**: Absolutely! I was overjoyed. To see the community come together and raise over $1 million in just two weeks is nothing short of inspiring. It really shows the strength and dedication of Pirate Nation.
**Interviewer**: What does this new Dick and Sarah Bennett Baseball Building mean for your program and your players?
**Cliff Godwin**: This facility is going to provide our student-athletes with a top-notch environment for training and development. It will include advanced training equipment, meeting spaces, and more, all aimed at giving our players the best possible experience. It’s going to elevate our program to new heights.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned in your statement that this initiative will leave a lasting impact. Can you elaborate on that?
**Cliff Godwin**: Sure! The support we received from Bill Clark Homes and the Pirate Nation is not just about today; it’s about building a legacy. This investment will benefit not just our current players but future generations of Pirates. It’s a commitment to excellence that will resonate through our program for years to come.
**Interviewer**: What message do you have for those who contributed to this challenge, as well as those who are considering donating in the future?
**Cliff Godwin**: I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in this challenge. Your support means the world to us, and it motivates us to push harder on the field. For those who are thinking about getting involved, every contribution matters. Together, we can continue to elevate ECU baseball and provide opportunities for our young athletes.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for your time, Coach Godwin. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this new facility will have on your program.
**Cliff Godwin**: Thank you! We can’t wait to get started on this exciting journey. Go Pirates!
