By: CofC Athletics
For the third time since 2018, the College of Charleston Athletic Fund (CAF) had a record-breaking fundraising year. CAF's annual fund, the Cougar Club, raised a record $1.1 million during the 2020-21 fiscal year, marking an increase of 25 percent from the previous year. The annual fund raises money specifically to assist with student-athlete scholarships.
“Our members are the strength of the Athletic Fund,” said John Douglass, President of the Charleston Athletic Fund. “They know the value of the membership and what it means to our student-athletes, the Athletic Department, and all of College of Charleston. We have a lot to be proud of and I look forward to the continued success of the College of Charleston Athletic Fund.”
During a difficult year defined by the COVID-19 pandemic, College of Charleston's donor and fan base stepped up to support student-athletes in historic fashion. CofC's fundraising efforts included the Cougar Relief Fund, which was designed and created to lessen the severity of the impact COVID-19 presented to athletes. The money raised allowed CofC to provide critical support for student-athletes during the challenging year, maintain the world-class experience the athletic department offers, and continue providing opportunities for student-athlete success.
“I cannot thank our Cougar family enough for their continued support and trust,” said Jerry Baker, Executive Director of the Cougar Club. “These numbers cannot be accomplished without the outstanding commitment of our tremendous student-athletes, their families, the fan base, alumni, and community support.”
Overall, the Charleston Athletic Fund raised more than $2.6 million for the College of Charleston Athletic Department. The 2020-21 record-breaking year came via the Cougar Club Annual Fund, but also included many generous donations through special fundraising events, sport-specific giving and other initiatives. Funding from the Charleston Athletic Fund provides financial resources to more than 350 student-athletes competing in 19 varsity sports at The College.
“It takes an entire community to provide student-athletes with the resources they need to graduate and have championship-level success on the playing field,” Director of Athletics Matt Roberts said. “We are so grateful for the continued tremendous support we receive from our donors. Our coaches, student-athletes and staff can't say thank you enough for your generosity and for making such a profound positive impact on College of Charleston Athletics.”
To help the Charleston Athletic Fund achieve yet another record-breaking year in 2021-22, visit www.CofCathleticfund.com or contact the Charleston Athletic Fund office at 843-953-8255 or athleticfund@cofc.edu.
