Pirate Spirit

Lugdy Debaut

Year: Graduate student Major: Recreation sciences Hometown: Les Abymes, Guadeloupe

BASKETBALL OPENED UP MANY OPPORTUNITIES.

Slam-dunk student

DEBAUT AIMS TO EXCEL ON AND OFF THE COURT

Entering his final year on the court, Ludgy Debaut is ready to step up his game and help the East Carolina University men’s basketball team and new coach Michael Schwartz reach their goals.

Now a graduate student, Debaut has been playing basketball for ECU since 2019 after spending two seasons at Northwest Florida State College. The 7-foot center averaged 2.4 points and 4.2 rebounds per game last season. He was named the American Athletic Conference Men’s Basketball ScholarAthlete of the Year for 2021-2022.

Growing up in Guadeloupe, Debaut first played soccer but was asked to play basketball when he was 10 years old. “I took it as a challenge,” he said. “Basketball opened up many opportunities.

“I was told by my coaches that playing basketball would give me the chance to go overseas,” he said. “There is so much talent back home, but not always the resources to help.”

Through sports and his education, he wants to pay it back to his family who, even with the distance, have stood by him. “My family has always supported me and helped me,” said Debaut. “I am proud to have my family’s name on my jersey. It is also great to represent the school and the program.”

Debaut said the way he was recruited was why he came to ECU. “It was all about relationships,” Debaut said. “They were checking on me all year long and made sure I had what I needed.” He is grateful for his time in Greenville, has felt welcomed and enjoys the smaller-city feel because it has, as he said, “less distractions, and I can stay focused on what I came here to do.”

That is completing his master’s degree in recreation sciences with a concentration in recreation and park administration. He hopes to play professionally then use his education to give back to those who have helped him, get involved with youth sports leagues and help further support players’ mental health.

“What impresses me most about Ludgy is his ability to integrate complex ideas and apply them to practical situations,” said Clifton Watts, ECU associate professor of recreation sciences.

“It’s been a pleasure to have him in our program and in classes.” – Hannah Eccleston

5 minutes with

MATT EDWARDS ’14

By Michael Rudd Position: Vice president and business manager, Bank of America, London Degree: Bachelor of Science, business administration

Hometown: Richmond, Virginia

What led you to climb Mount Kilimanjaro last March? Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro first came on my radar back in 2019. My dad (Brad Edwards ‘83) and I were about a year out from two milestone birthdays — 60 and 30, respectively — and I thought it would make for a worthwhile accomplishment. Unfortunately, COVID-19 happened, and plans were delayed, changed, etc., so the trip ultimately became a solo mission.

What was it like? Incredible and diverse. There are a few different ways to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro. I opted for the Machame Route because it provides impressive views and a variety of flora and fauna that few other places can offer. Each day you navigate dramatically different climate zones ranging from rainforest through the moorlands and, ultimately, the arctic zone at the summit. What lessons did you learn at ECU that have benefited you in your career? On your way to obtaining the goals you set for yourself, whether at work or in climbing a mountain, you have to have a level of discipline to keep your eyes on the prize and remember why you’re doing what you’re doing. Regarding diversity, I met and studied alongside so many people from different backgrounds and walks of life that I quickly learned that everyone has something to bring to the table.

Anything else you’d like to add? Find a mentor that can give you support and guidance on your path to achieving your personal and career goals. For me at ECU, my mentor was Louis Warren, a professor in the College of Education and the faculty advisor for our fraternity. His mentorship instilled in me a responsibility to always pay it forward when you are in the position to do so.

We want to hear stories from alumni about how their experiences at ECU shaped them today and how they pass those lessons to others. Send us an email at easteditor@ecu.edu.