Chippewa Athletic Fund Announces Record Year

MOUNT PLEASANT - Despite the tough economic times refelcted all over the country, Chippewa supporters have once again shown their strength and commitment to a Championship Culture.

For the second year in a row, annual dollars raised in support of Central Michigan student-athletes has exceeded the million dollar mark.

As of the June 30 membership deadline, more than $1,130,000 had been received from more than 2,600 donors. Both of these numbers reflect significant increases from the previous fiscal year. Annual funds saw a $60,000 increase and more than 400 new individual donors joined the Chippewa Athletic Fund.

"This is another clear example of the steady and positive growth of Central Michigan Athletics, thanks to our supporters, that has helped us continue to build on our Championship Culture," said CMU Director of Athletics Dave Heeke. "All the support that was received during the 2008-09 fiscal year will be focused on assisting our sport programs and every dollar raised will directly impact the lives and experiences of our 400 plus student-athletes."

As the cost of supporting a successful Division I athletics program continues to increase, so do the fundraising goals of the CAF. In 2009-10 the CAF is determined to continue its record-breaking pace by raising a total of $1,250,000 in annual funds and increasing its donor group to 3,000 strong.

All past and present donors are encouraged to help spread the word about the CAF with fellow parents, alumni, former teammates and friends of the program. The grassroots efforts of those currently involved will be a key factor in the continued success of CMU Athletics.

For more information on the CAF or to make a donation visit www.chippewafund.com.