Clarence Stasavich

Remarks delivered by Leo Jenkins, May 13, 1976 in tribute to Clarence Stasavich. This and other documents may be found in the University Archives.

This document from Clarence Stasavich EPA Personnel File, UW0000, Series 1, Box 8, Folder 10.

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A nationally prominent firgure in the collegiate circles, "Coach Stas" was responsible for the rapid rise of East Carolina University's athletic program.

Stas first came to Greenville in 1962, after a highly successful 16-year coaching career at small college power Lenoir Rhyne. A year later, he assumed the dual role of athletic director and head football coach.

His East Carolina football teams were an immediate success. In 1963, while operating the famous Stasavich Single-Wing offense, rolled to a 9-1 record, the first of three consecutive 9-1 seasons. In all three years, East Carolina participated in the post-season bowl games, winning all three -- Eastern Bowl (1963), and Tangerine Bowl (1964-1965).

The following season East Carolina tied for first place in the Southern Conference.

When Stas relinquished his coaching duties following the 1969 season, he had compiled a 50-27-1 record.

His reign as athletic director was equally successful. While at the helm of the program, Stas was instrumental in the development of the modern all-purpose athletic complex which includes Ficken Stadium, Minges Coliseum and Natatorium, Scales Field House, Harrington Field and Bunting Field.

Stadium expansion, improvement of stadium lighting and completion of work on Harrington Field were part of his future plans.

Stas began his coaching career in 1935 at Campbell College and eventually moved back to Lenoir Rhyne as football line coach, assistant basketball coach and head tennis coach. His tennis teams won two conference championships.

His teams and records were spectacular. In 16 seasons, Stas won 120 games, lost 37 and tied seven. Lenoir Rhyne won nine Carolinas Conference championships, seven in succession from 1955-1961. In 1960 the Bears won National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics national championship.

His career win total (170-64-8) ranked him third among America's active coaches at the time of retirement, trailing Alabama's Paul "Bear" Bryant and Mississippi's John Vaught.

A native of Georgetown, Ill., Stas married the former Helen Warlick of Hickory, N.C. They have three grown children; Rebecca, Mary and Walter.