A four-year football star and baseball standout at Illinois College, Eckhouse became starting quarterback during his freshman year and held this honor for the remainder of his collegiate career. As the offensive leader for the Blueboys, Eckhouse played the major role in changing IC into a winning force during his years with the team. He was also the starting first baseman for the Blueboys for three years and the 1976 batting champion. Former baseball coach at Alton Marquette High School and Jacksonville High School and is currently the head baseball coach at IC.