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 most funds for their program.

During the record-breaking eight days, a total of $591,398 was raised thanks to the generosity of 3,640 donors. This surpassed last year’s total by more than $71,000.

"And the winners are..."

Teams were competing in two categories: 1) Most donors and 2) Highest participation rate from alumni student-athletes. When the final numbers were tallied, Baseball came in first with the most donors, followed by Men’s Basketball and Softball. Women’s Golf took the trophy for the highest alumni participation rate, followed by Women’s Rowing and Men’s Rowing.

These teams earned additional prize money, added to their team’s fundraising totals.

“The energy and enthusiasm behind this year's Giving Challenge was absolutely incredible. Our alumni, parents, and friends all stepped up in so many ways,” said Kevin Robinson, director of Athletics. “I want to thank everyone for their commitment and dedication in making this the best-ever Giving Challenge. Your impact will be felt for years.”

From the staff

Catholic University coaches see the firsthand impact of the Cardinal Athletics Giving Challenge. Ross Natoli, head baseball coach, shared, “I want to thank our incredible Catholic University Baseball parents, families, friends, players, and loyal alumni for helping us win the Cardinal Athletics Giving Challenge. The funds raised will go directly toward providing access to the latest technology, state-of-the-art training equipment, and mental health support as we pursue our ultimate goal of competing for a national championship.”

Head softball coach Sophie Maccarone added, “I want to thank our families, friends, and especially our alumni for stepping up to the plate during this year's challenge to support Catholic University Softball. The success of this year's challenge allows us to grow our program and compete at the highest level on and off the field. I am extremely proud of our team’s success!”

Jaime Walls, associate athletic director/recruitment and compliance and healthcare administrator, spoke to how this year’s challenge will impact the overall well-being of student-athletes. “We are more than pleased with the outcome of our first effort to raise money for wellness areas in athletics. Your gifts will go a long way in enhancing our sports medicine office, funding our mental health initiatives, and continuing to provide appropriate nutrition, while also adding an educational component that is necessary for proper fueling. Thank you to all the donors who specifically supported one of these areas.”
 

The Cardinal Athletics Giving Challenge will return again next fall. Make sure to follow Catholic University Athletics on social media to get details about the 2025 competition. If you missed the chance to support your favorite Cardinal team during the challenge, you can still make a gift at CUCardsCompete.Catholic.edu.