SIU Old Loads "Adopt-A-Rugger" Fundraiser: A Resounding Success!

We are thrilled to share the success of our recent "Adopt-A-Rugger" fundraiser, benefiting the Men's and Women's Rugby clubs at Southern Illinois University (SIU). This initiative brought together alumni and current players in a heartwarming display of community spirit and generosity.

How It Worked

For a donation of $100, our Old Loads (alumni) had the opportunity to "adopt" a current player from a list provided by the clubs. The Men's team offered 26 players for adoption, while the Women's team provided 11. Some enthusiastic alumni went above and beyond, adopting multiple players, including members from both teams.

Fundraiser Highlights

• Double Adoptions: Several women players were adopted both virtually and in person, showcasing the strong support for our Women's team.

• Last-Minute Push: At our Saturday night dinner, we successfully adopted out 6 unadopted men, thanks to the generous last-minute contributions. Unfortunately, a few players who were not present at the dinner remained unadopted.

• Exceeding Goals: The Men's team aimed to raise $1500 to cover travel costs for the season. We are proud to announce that we surpassed this goal, raising an impressive $2150! The Women's team also benefited greatly, raising $1375.

Total Funds Raised

In total, the fundraiser brought in $3525, with some donations exceeding the $100 adoption fee. This incredible support will significantly aid both teams in their upcoming seasons.

Community and Camaraderie

Beyond the financial success, the fundraiser fostered a sense of community and camaraderie. It was heartwarming to see players and alumni interacting, sharing stories, and even participating in fun activities like carrying a bowling ball during the pub crawl.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to this event. Your generosity and support are deeply appreciated. As soon as all the funds are cleared, they will be distributed directly to the teams.

Together, we are making a difference for SIU Rugby!