ECU’s Parker Byrd Becomes First Division I Athlete To Play With Prosthetic Leg
Image credit: Parker Byrd (Photo courtesy of ECU)
ECU redshirt freshman Parker Byrd made an emotional college debut Friday when he became the first Division I athlete to play in a game with a prosthetic leg.
Byrd appeared as a pinch hitter in the eighth inning of the Pirates’ 16-2 victory against Rider. He received a standing ovation from the crowd of 5,221 fans at Clark-LeClair Stadium before drawing a five-pitch walk. He was then removed from the game for a pinch runner.
Byrd was involved in a boating accident in July 2022 and part of his right leg was amputated. He underwent 22 surgeries in 45 days, followed by a grueling rehab. But ECU and the Pirates stuck with him throughout the process, setting up Friday’s emotional scene.
Byrd said he got chills while he was walking to the plate.
“It’s unreal,” Byrd said. “I really can’t put it into words. It’s phenomenal.”
Coach Cliff Godwin said Byrd’s debut was one of the proudest moments he’s had in more than 20 years of coaching.
“It’s been a long journey,” Godwin said. “He’s been working his tail off. It was super emotional.”
Godwin said Byrd will have more opportunities to come this season. For now, however, Byrd was grateful for the moment Friday and for everyone who has helped him over the last 19 months since the accident.
“It’s really the people along the way that have helped me,” Byrd said. “God as well, he’s looking over me the whole time. I really can’t be more blessed getting the opportunity I am today.”
