Rutgers Athletics Hall of Fame
One of the most recognizable names and faces to ever attend Rutgers University and play for the Scarlet Knights, Eric LeGrand has become a source of inspiration, hope and perseverance for people around the world. His No. 52 is the only retired number in Rutgers football history.
Enrolling in 2008 and playing right away as a true freshman, a tackle on special teams during the 2010 season would be a defining moment in his legacy to Rutgers and the football program. On October 16, 2010, as a junior, LeGrand suffered a severe spinal injury during a game against Army at MetLife Stadium. Following a collision against an opposing player, LeGrand lay on the ground for several minutes before being carted off, only able to move his head. He was taken to the intensive care unit of the Hackensack University Medical Center, where doctors determined that LeGrand was paralyzed from the neck down.
Despite his injury, LeGrand persevered, resuming his academic responsibilities via Skype for the spring 2011 semester. He would go on to earn his Rutgers degree in labor relations. LeGrand has displayed a tremendous amount of courage, belief and strength throughout his rehabilitation, capturing the attention and hearts of the nation. A recipient of the prestigious Jimmy V Award for Perseverance at the ESPY Awards, LeGrand founded Team LeGrand, a charity arm of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation in 2013. Team LeGrand has raised over $1 million through its events and fundraisers. The foundation works to find a cure for paralysis and helping improve the quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries. LeGrand has continued to serve as a motivational speaker.
