Behind the simple Jog-a-Thons and the Instagram reposts of fundraisers that have long been embedded into our education at Northwood lies a simple truth: Athletics depend on funding, and these events are critical to the success of the school’s programs.
IUSD provides around $650,000 in funding for around 24 different athletic teams and student-athletes on campus, which can cover basic funds such as transportation and paying coaches. However, programs have to cover equipment, uniforms, tournament fees and other miscellaneous fees out of pocket. Fundraising activities, such as partnerships with local restaurants and hosting summer camps, bridges the gap to ensure a high-quality experience for Northwood athletes.
“We heavily advertise our summer camp because the more people that show up, the more goes into our program,” tennis head coach Kayla Almazan said. “For maintaining our courts, nets and our uniforms, we pay for it out of pocket from our program. That’s why we have to fundraise for that purpose and to keep the program going.”
Not only are fundraisers important as a financial lifeline, but they also connect the athletes to their local community and build leadership and teamwork skills. Whether it is brainstorming, leading or advertising fundraisers, student-athletes learn how to work together fueled by their shared passion for their sport.
“The more people that get involved in our programs, such as going to the summer camp and being willing to donate, the more fun activities we can do, such as going to outside tournaments or having bonding days,” Almazan said.
Matching uniforms, personalized gear, team bonding and larger tournament trips are just a few examples of how fundraising can elevate the sports experience for all Northwood athletes.
“Fundraisers with cross-country has not only brought the team closer together and better but has also helped me as an individual learn more about leadership and helping others,” senior Hakeem Ebrahim said.
Athletics shapes students into leaders and teaches valuable life skills such as discipline and perseverance. Each dollar raised is more than a jersey or a bus ride: It’s an investment in generations of future athletes, and who they become as people.
