Mark Roach will lead the effort to expand the scope of the Chanticleer Club, the athletic booster organization of Coastal Carolina University. As executive director of the organization, Roach will direct all activities related to the Chanticleer Club on a full-time basis beginning June 1. His previous position was divided between managing the club and serving as senior associate athletic director.

For more than 30 years, the Chanticleer Club, originally called the CINO (Coastal Is Number One) Club, has been instrumental in raising funds for athletic scholarships and capital needs.

"By expanding Mark Roach's role, we are demonstrating the central importance of the Chanticleer Club in our efforts to solidify the Chanticleer tradition and build financial strength," said Coastal Carolina University President David A. DeCenzo.

Other athletic fund-raising opportunities include naming rights to various campus facilities, as well as private/community partnerships and event sponsorships, according to Roach.

"My charge is to lead the Chanticleer Club as we work to strengthen the culture and perception of athletics at Coastal Carolina University," says Roach. "Our goal is to raise funds through various initiatives so that we may continue upgrading facilities, increase awareness with additional advertising and marketing strategies, and create dedicated fans through annual membership drives. The ultimate purpose is to strengthen the athletic component of the University in order to support and prepare our student-athletes, not only to be winners in their respective sports but to be successful in their careers and leaders in their communities."

A native of Doraville, Ga., Roach earned a bachelor's degree in physical education from Coastal Carolina University in 1984 and a master's degree in sports management from the United States Sports Academy in 1993. Prior to joining the University staff in 2002, he was coordinator of athletics and physical education for Horry County Schools. He was also Carolina Forest High School athletic director, head baseball coach at Socastee High School and Sumter High School, and head baseball/basketball coach at Wilson Hall in Sumter.