LOWELL, MA (Apr. 25, 2008) – David J. Boutin, a former UMass Lowell baseball player who lost his battle with cancer in 1990, will have his No. 18 jersey retired in a ceremony prior to Sunday’s Northeast-10 Conference baseball game with Pace University.

A catcher from 1988-90, Boutin played in 39 games and enjoyed his best season in 1989 when he batted .291 with 14 RBI, 12 runs and a .418 slugging percentage. He was named a captain prior to the 1991 season after playing in 13 games in 1990.

After the 1990 season, he was the recipient of the Most Dedicated Player Award, voted upon by the UML coaching staff and his teammates.

Boutin lost his battle with cancer on Sept. 12, 1990, shortly into what was to be his junior year. His No. 18 has not been worn since and has been embroidered on the sleeves of UML’s practice jerseys throughout the years.

Soon after Boutin’s passing, the UML Department of Athletics named its annual male student-athlete of the year award in his honor. The award is presented to the outstanding male student-athlete who exemplifies excellence in sport, academics, service to the community and leadership.

Last year’s recipient of the David J. Boutin Award was Tim Manton, currently a senior outfielder/pitcher.

Additionally, Boutin’s mother, Fleurette, created the David J. Boutin Memorial Scholarship Fund, presented annually to a member of the UML baseball team who best exemplifies the character of Boutin. This year’s recipient is freshman pitcher Kyle Davis.

“It is time to honor David’s family as well as UMass Lowell’s baseball family and the athletic community by officially retiring No. 18,” said UML Head Coach Ken Harring. “David’s name and legacy are carried on through the Boutin Award as well as the endowed scholarship that the Boutin family has set up in his name which will ensure his name lives on forever at UMass Lowell.”

Ms. Boutin, who presents the David J. Boutin Award each year at the UML Excellence Banquet, will be a part of the ceremony as well as his sister, Michelle, and brothers Donald, Emile and Robert. Former teammates and baseball alumni are also expected to be on hand.