LEWISTON, Maine -- The fifth annual Friends of Bates Athletics Giving Challenge proved to be another runaway success, setting a new standard for funds raised at $636,368.
The grand total represents a leap of $152,851, up 31.6% from the 2022 FBA Challenge's tally.
"We set out to break our previous record for total funds raised, and Bobcat nation did not disappoint," Director of Athletics
Jason Fein said. "Each year, the challenge grows, and our student-athletes, coaches, alums and supporters get more and more creative in their outreach and generosity. The creativity that our teams put into their social media game is impressive, and the message is clearly received, as we skyrocketed over the half million dollar mark for the first time to finish with over $636,000 that can directly help supplement the student-athlete experience at Bates. I could not be more thankful!"
Taking place May 2-4 this year, the FBA Giving Challenge is designed to provide specific program benefits — such as funding for expanded travel and training opportunities, better equipment, and stepped-up recruiting efforts — as well as support that's more intangible, such as reaffirming the Bates culture of giving back.
"The 2023 FBA Challenge results are a testament to the pride and support shown by our alumni and parent communities for Bates athletics and all of our hard working student-athletes," Vice President for College Advancement
Eric Foushée said. "This generosity helps ensure Bates teams can compete at the highest levels and continue to build toward future championships. Thank you and go Bobcats!"
The inaugural FBA Giving Challenge in 2019 raised $189,127, and the total jumped to $258,108 in 2020 despite a global pandemic. The money raised has been increasing every year, with 2,106 donors participating this time around, well beyond the donor goal of 1,210, chosen because it's the total number of Bobcats who compete in varsity and club sports.
The men's basketball program raised the most money among Bates teams at $110,172, followed closely by football at $109,701. The football squad's total is a remarkable 381.12% increase from 2022 as the Bobcats, under the tutelage of new leadership, have inspired the alumni base. For the third straight year, the Bates swimming and diving program led the way when it came to total donors, with 412 contributors.
