After winning a third national title, Limestone College lacrosse coach J.B. Clarke on Thursday received one of the highest honors South Carolina has to offer.
Clarke was awarded the Order of the Silver Crescent while visiting the state capitol with his reigning 2017 NCAA Division II National Champions. He and the team were recognized by the state Senate and House of Representatives.
The Order of the Silver Crescent is the state's highest civilian award for significant contributions in leadership, volunteerism and lifelong influence in a region or community, according to Gov. Henry McMaster's office.
"I feel the Order of the Silver Crescent would be an exceptional way to show our appreciation for the outstanding dedication and commitment coach Clarke has made to Cherokee County and to the state of South Carolina," state Sen. Harvey Peeler said in a statement.
Clarke led the Limestone lacrosse team to national championships in 2014, 2015 and 2017. The program also captured titles in 2000 and 2002.
During Clarke's leadership, team members have frequently volunteered with service projects across Cherokee County. Last year, the athletics program logged 4,100 total hours of community service.