By Keegan Vulgamott and Chapman Kinlaw
Former pro-baller, William Peace University alum, and current CEO of the Player’s League Alec Allred will come to campus to share insights from his journey on Feb. 27.
The event will take place in Kenan Auditorium from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. It is open to all students, faculty and staff.
Allred, a member of the class of 2018, was the first Pacer baseball player to go pro. His accomplishments didn’t stop there. A few years later, he co-founded his own company and became CEO of the Player’s League. Allred is excited and has an inspiring message for students.
“It’s an honor to return to my alma mater and share my experiences,” Allred in an online interview. “I hope to inspire students to pursue their passions and overcome any obstacles they may face.”
Allred graduated with a liberal studies degree and a minor in political science. After college, he played for the Westside Woolly Mammoths in the United Shores Professional Baseball League. He helped found The Old North State League, which sought to provide a player-centric structure, such as shorter seasons and reduced travel between teams. That effort developed into The Player’s League, of which he is now CEO.
“We chose Alec first because he was an alum, and he had the distinction of having gone into professional baseball, which I think is something that is really interesting to a lot of people here,” said Marti Maguire, a member of the Speakers and Events Committee, which is sponsoring the event. “But we also thought Alec’s experiences off the field would resonate with a broader audience. His journey shows that success isn’t limited to one path.”
Even after many successful years in sports, he retains fond memories about his time at Peace.
“The best memories I have are from hanging out with the guys, whether that was in class or in the courtyard or on the field,” reminisced Allred.
Student-athlete Carlos Carreros, who plays for the WPU men’s tennis team, expressed his excitement about the upcoming event.
“As an athlete, it’s incredibly inspiring to hear from someone who has been successful in his sports endeavors.,” said Carreros. “Alec’s journey shows us that it’s possible to reach the same heights with the right dedication.”
The event will include a brief talk and Q&A session. Allred is eager to share his own journey, but also to inspire students to find their own path.
“The biggest thing I hope students take away is to not be afraid to take chances,” Allred states. “Don’t live a life that’s calm and easy—take gambles, and don’t think any dream is too small.”