GUNNISON, Colo. – In the midst of a challenging economic climate, the need for private funds to supplement the Western State College athletic programs is more important than ever. But thanks to the contributions and dedication of individuals and businesses throughout the Gunnison Valley, the Mountaineer Athletic Association set an all-time record with $285,169 in revenue for the 2008-09 academic year.
“I think this record and continued growth in our fund-raising success happens due to a lot of reasons and a lot of good people,” said Athletic Director Dr. Greg Waggoner. “But boiled down simply, it is an endorsement of the belief in what we do and we are very pleased to know so many feel so strongly and continue to demonstrate that belief so tangibly.”
The new record includes only the corporate partnership program and the regular memberships for the MAA. For the fifth straight year, Western State raised more than $1 million in revenue last year through special events, capital campaigns, donations, grants, gate receipts, advertising, program sales, concessions, athletic camps, sport specific fund-raising and the MAA.
Western State athletics generates 48 percent of its budget from private funds, double the average NCAA Division II institution with a football team. Yet the Mountaineers are one of only two Division II programs to place within the Top 25 of the Learfield Sports Director’s Cup every year since the competition began 14 years ago.
The needs for the athletic program continue to be compelling in an effort to gain on competitive peers, especially in the area of scholarships.
The 2009-10 MAA annual drive kicked off last week. For more information or to become a part of the Mountaineer success, contact Western State athletics at (970) 943-2079.