Famous East Carolina alumni include Academy Award winner Sandra Bullock, wrestling promoter Vince McMahon, former Miss USA and Miss Universe Kristen Dalton, founder of Golden Corral restaurant chain James Maynard, former Utah Jazz player Blue Edwards and social media content mogul MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson)

2. Introducing the Pirates

East Carolina players storm the field at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium to Jimi Hendrix’s classic tune “Purple Haze” through purple smoke right before every home football game. A cannon is fired when the players run onto the field and after every score.

3. Argh, me matey!

At the beginning of the fourth quarter, the “No Quarter” flag is raised at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. The flag features a skull and crossbones on a burgundy/brick red background, representing a refusal to surrender. Fans are encouraged to show their crossbones as a sign of allegiance and support for the team.

4. Football origins

The inaugural football season for East Carolina was 1932. The original nickname for the team was “Teachers” because it was a teacher training school but the mascot became the Pirates in 1933.

5. Winning rules

East Carolina has won seven conference championships and eleven bowl games, along with citations for 20 All-Americans. The last conference championships for the Pirates came in 2008 and 2009 under Skip Holtz (C-USA).