Who would win between football and basketball? Lacrosse and tennis? Golf and volleyball? We’ll never have a definitive answer, but with the Cardinal Athletics Giving Challenge, we level the playing field so that the varsity sports can compete against each other. Next year's challenge dates will be released soon!

In this two-week challenge, you can help your favorite teams compete for glory and prizes. Up to 12 teams could win prize money: In the categories of most donors, the first, second, and third place for both the men's and women's teams — in these two categories: most donors and highest participation.

Frequently asked questions

How are the rankings calculated?

The rankings vary by year. Please return once the dates are confirmed. 

Who can participate in the challenge?

Everyone! Alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff, and friends. Just donate to your favorite team during the challenge.

Which teams are included in the challenge?

All varsity teams are included!

I want to up the ante. Can I be a challenge donor?

Of course! We’d love to talk with you about how your large gift could be leveraged into a challenge gift. Contact us about becoming a challenge donor!

Results and stories about the challenge
The 2024 Athletics Giving Challenge – "Hit it Out of the Park"
Who doesn’t love leaning into their Cardinal pride, cheering on varsity sports, and participating in some friendly competition? The Cardinal Athletics Giving Challenge brought all of these passions together in 2024 for a nail-biting race to see which Catholic University sports team would raise the...
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The Results Are In: CatholicU’s 2023 Athletics Giving Challenge Was Most Successful Ever
If you’re connected to Catholic University Athletics, then you probably know and love the Cardinal Athletics Giving Challenge. For the past six years, all Catholic University sports teams have competed to see which one can raise the most funds for the CatholicU Athletics department. During...
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CatholicU Nets Best Giving Challenge Result Ever
This year marked the most successful Athletics Giving Challenge in University history, with a total of $372,440 dollars raised through 3,721 gifts from a record-setting 2,905 donors. Last year, $313,614 was raised during the Athletics Giving Challenge.
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