Phi Delta Theta Museum

Honorary Captain:

Chris Combs was a beloved figure in North Carolina State Wolfpack baseball history, both for his accomplishments on the field and for the courage he showed later in life. A towering six-foot-seven athlete from Raleigh, Combs starred for NC State from 1994–97 as a pitcher, outfielder and first baseman. He finished his collegiate career tied for fifth in school history with 42 home runs and ranked among the top 10 in RBIs, helping lead the Wolfpack to one of the program’s longest ACC win streaks in history. After being drafted in the fifth round of the 1997 MLB Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates and playing professionally for several seasons, he returned to NC State as an associate director for the Wolfpack Club, where he worked to support the athletic community he loved for more than a decade. His number 26 became the first jersey honored by the NC State baseball program, cementing his legacy in Wolfpack lore.

In 2016, Combs was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Rather than retreat, he and his wife, Gena, launched Team Chris Combs to raise awareness and funding for ALS research, becoming a spearhead for fundraising efforts that brought in more than $4 million to support targeted scientific study toward a cure. His fight resonated deeply within the NC State community and beyond, inspiring fundraisers, benefit games, and support campaigns that leveraged collegiate sport as a platform for advocacy. Combs battled the disease with the same tenacity he showed on the baseball field until his passing in 2020 at age forty-five, but his impact lives on through the research he helped fund and the enduring spirit of resilience he demonstrated.

Honorary Captain:

Keith LeClair was a highly respected baseball coach and former head coach of East Carolina University’s baseball program. Taking the reins in 1997, he quickly turned the Pirates into a national powerhouse, leading them to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and building a reputation for competitive, high-energy baseball. Known for his leadership, LeClair emphasized player development and fostered a close-knit team environment that propelled many players to professional careers. In his five seasons with the Pirates, LeClair tallied a win-loss record of 212-96-1. He was twice named the Colonial Athletic Association Coach-of-the-Year and ABCA East Region Coach-of-the-Year.

In 2006, LeClair’s life took a devastating turn when he was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Despite his rapid physical decline, he continued to coach, showing extraordinary resilience and determination. His battle with ALS became an inspiration to many, not just in baseball, but in the broader community. He retired that same year, leaving behind a legacy of toughness, integrity, and leadership.

LeClair passed away on July 18, 2006, at the age of 41, but his impact lives on. The ECU baseball team honors his memory with the annual Keith LeClair Classic, and his story continues to inspire athletes and individuals facing adversity. LeClair’s contributions to college baseball and his courageous fight against ALS remain a testament to his strength and character.

Honorary Captain:

Pete Frates, a former Boston College baseball player, holds a special place in the heart of college baseball and the ALS community. Diagnosed with ALS in 2012, Pete became a beacon of hope and resilience, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for ALS research. His courageous battle against the disease, coupled with his unwavering determination, inspired millions worldwide. Pete and his family, friends, and many, many supporters — collectively known as ‘Team FrateTrain’ — made it their mission to raise education, awareness, and funds for a cure for this dreaded disease. In the process, they helped to create the worldwide sensation ‘Ice Bucket Challenge,’ which raised over $220 million to fight ALS.

Within college baseball circles, Pete’s legacy looms large as a symbol of strength and perseverance. His alma mater, Boston College, and countless other collegiate programs have rallied behind Pete’s cause, organizing fundraisers, awareness campaigns, and tribute events in his honor. Pete’s impact transcends the boundaries of the baseball diamond, as his story continues to motivate athletes, fans, and supporters to join the fight against ALS. Through his tireless advocacy and unyielding spirit, Pete Frates has left an indelible mark on college baseball, inspiring a generation to come together in the quest for a cure and offering solace and support to those affected by ALS.