CONWAY, S.C. — Coastal Carolina Athletics has announced a $1 million gift from Patrick and Susan Sparks in support of Chanticleer Athletics. In recognition of their generosity, the former West Zone within Coastal Carolina's athletics facilities will be named the Sparks Family Zone.
Patrick Sparks, a 1995 Coastal Carolina graduate with a bachelor's degree in marketing, and his wife, Susan, are longtime supporters of the University with deep personal, professional, and philanthropic ties to the institution. Patrick currently serves as vice chair of the Coastal Carolina University Board of Trustees and has been a member of the Board since 2017.
"We believe in Coastal Carolina University and the transformational impact it has on our community, and we wanted to take this opportunity to show our support and our excitement for where our University and athletics are heading," Patrick Sparks said.
A Myrtle Beach native, Sparks is the owner of Sparks Toyota, a family business founded in 1982 by his father. In addition to his service on the Board of Trustees, Sparks has supported Coastal Carolina philanthropically across multiple areas, including academics through the Sparks Family Endowed Scholarship. He was recognized as a Coastal Carolina Distinguished Alumnus in 2014.
Susan Sparks is the past president of The Dunes Golf and Beach Club and currently serves as a member of its board. She has been a strong supporter of Coastal Carolina Athletics and the arts, reflecting the family's broad commitment to the University and the surrounding community.
The $1 million commitment represents a significant investment in the continued growth of Coastal Carolina Athletics and the enhancement of the student-athlete experience across multiple programs. The naming of the Sparks Family Zone will serve as a lasting symbol of the family's dedication to Coastal Carolina University and its athletics programs.
"Over a multitude of years, the Sparks family has consistently led with purpose and heart. Their commitment to this university goes far beyond philanthropy," said Kelly Moore, executive director of the Chanticleer Athletic Foundation. "It reflects a deep belief in our students, our mission, and our future. Their leadership continues to inspire all of us who have the privilege to serve alongside them."
The Sparks family's support has played an important role in the continued growth and direction of Coastal Carolina Athletics, helping position the department for sustained success while expanding opportunities for student-athletes across all programs.
"Patrick and Susan Sparks have a long history of serving Coastal Carolina University, supporting Coastal Carolina Athletics, and investing in the Horry County community," said Coastal Carolina Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and University Recreation Chance Miller. "They show up, give generously, and bring others into the Coastal family. Their leadership continues to elevate our student-athletes and strengthen the future of our athletics department and University. They have also been incredibly kind to my family and me since we arrived at Coastal, and I am deeply grateful for all they have done."
Coastal Carolina University President James J. Winebrake also highlighted the Sparks family's longstanding connection to the institution.
"Patrick and Susan Sparks have been deeply invested in Coastal Carolina for many years," Winebrake said. "Their support of our athletics programs reflects their belief in our students and the direction of our University. Their continued involvement strengthens our ability to serve our campus and community."
The Sparks Family Zone will stand as a permanent reminder of Patrick and Susan Sparks' commitment to Coastal Carolina University and their belief in the power of athletics to elevate the student-athlete experience and advance the institution's mission.
