RINDGE, N.H. (12/3/25) - When freshman distance runner David Breault arrived on campus this fall, he expected his first year at Franklin Pierce to be defined by mileage charts, long runs on wooded trails, and learning how to balance college life with collegiate athletics. For the first two months of the season, that's exactly what it was. 

But what many didn't know was how long and how hard Breault had already worked to get here. 

From the moment Head Coach Liam Murphy first spoke with Breault on the phone in May 2025—just weeks after taking the job—there was something unmistakable about him. David shared how he had run track throughout high school, and how, entering his senior year, he made a difficult choice: stepping away from soccer to fully commit to pursuing collegiate running through cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track. It was clear he wasn't just choosing a sport; he was choosing a path. 

His summer training only confirmed that belief. Transitioning from a soccer background and middle-distance profile to a true distance runner wasn't easy—long runs, higher mileage, and the daily demands of distance training brought challenges. But Murphy quickly learned that Breault didn't shy away from adversity. 

"His effort and his attitude never wavered," Murphy said. "Week after week he learned, made adjustments, and continued sharpening his craft." 

Breault embraced his rookie season with quiet determination, steadily improving meet after meet. He settled into the heart of the lineup, competing in every major race—from early invitationals to the energized atmosphere of the NE10 Championship—and played an important role in helping the Ravens earn a bid to the national championship with his performance at the NCAA Division II East Region Championship on November 8. 

He wasn't just finding his stride on the course; he was becoming woven into the culture of the program. 

"When he raced those first couple of times, it reminded me that it does not matter where you come from or what your background is. Hard work still works. And David embodies that. He is consistent, calculated, never complains, and appreciates every opportunity he earns."  

And then everything changed. 

Just three days after Regionals, Breault was rushed to the emergency room with severe nausea, headaches, and blurred vision. An MRI revealed something no 18-year-old expects to hear: an abnormal mass on his brain. He was transported to Boston Children's Hospital, where specialists diagnosed him with a Non-germinomatous Germ Cell Tumor, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. 

Breault underwent an Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV), and while he continues to recover, he now faces an intensive 11-month chemotherapy journey. 

The diagnosis reshaped every part of his daily life. But one thing hasn't changed—his outlook. 

"Life can change so quickly," Breault said. "You go from being in class five days a week and running 45–50 miles to suddenly waking up in a hospital bed. It's mentally and physically draining, but I'm incredibly grateful for the strong community around me. This is just another barrier to overcome, and I truly believe things will get back to normal again. Cancer is horrible, but for anyone facing it, stay positive and keep fighting. You're stronger than you think." 

When the team learned what David was facing, Murphy said it "hit all of us straight in the heart." 

"We are a small, close-knit group, and all season long we preached that everyone matters. We lived that. So, to qualify for nationals with that mentality, and then suddenly know we would have to leave one of our own behind, was gut wrenching." 

Still, David's spirit never faded. Whether on the phone, in the hospital, or even stopping by practice as the team prepared for nationals, he stayed true to himself. Murphy said it put everything into perspective: 

"It reminded us what truly matters—friends, family, health, a roof over your head, food on the table, and so much more." 

Over the eight days between David's diagnosis and the team's departure for nationals, the Ravens visited him constantly. One night, teammate Gunner Currier even stayed overnight in the hospital so David's parents could rest.

"The team's engagement, their care, their maturity—it was phenomenal," Murphy said. 

Later that week, the entire roster traveled to Boston and shaved their heads with David. 

"It was symbolic, and it showed that he was not going to fight this thing alone. All for one and one for all. David inspired me. The team inspired me with how they responded. The community stepping up inspired me. His parents inspired me." 

 At nationals, the Ravens wore warmups reading We Run For David, a reminder that he remained at the heart of their season. 

"During our championship warmup, he was right there with us wearing his own in spirit," Murphy shared. 

Breault's diagnosis highlights the importance of paying attention to symptoms that can easily be dismissed: headaches, nausea, vision changes. He hopes his story encourages others to listen to their bodies and seek help early. 

Meanwhile, his community has rallied to ease the financial burden of treatment, travel, and daily living expenses. A fundraiser organized by his girlfriend, Charli, has brought together teammates, alumni, staff, and friends in an outpouring of love and support. 

What began as a promising debut season has become something much larger: a story of resilience, unity, and a team running not just for results, but for David. 

Murphy closed his thoughts with a message that resonated through the entire program: 

"Love you, David."