April 4, 2008

ATHENS, Ohio-The Ohio Bobcat Club recently completed its second annual giving campaign on March 31, 2008.  Thanks to the support of many alumni and friends, the Ohio Bobcat Club finished with 1,509 members, a 46% increase in membership and easily surpassing the membership goal of 1,200.  Additionally, the Ohio Bobcat Club surpassed its fundraising goal as it finished with $754,927 against its goal of $750,000.

"The success of the Ohio Bobcat Club, in only its second year, is a tremendous accomplishment," said Chris Delisio, Associate Athletics Director of Program Advancement and Executive Director of the Ohio Bobcat Club. "I think that the Ohio Bobcat Club's mission of enhancing the student-athlete experience really resonates with our fans, alumni and donors. They can see their support contributing to the success of our student-athletes, both in the classroom and in competition."

As the Ohio Bobcat Club begins its new fundraising year in April, the membership goal for 2008-2009 is 2,100. To reach this goal, the Ohio Bobcat Club will be expanding its efforts with two new initiatives-the Young Alumni Program and the Membership Referral Program, while continuing to increase private support for Ohio Athletics.

The Young Alumni Program is open to graduates from the classes of 2006, 2007 and 2008 and offers a young alumni membership rate for the Ohio Bobcat Club. The Membership Referral Program provides the opportunity for current Ohio Bobcat Club members to earn point credit and rewards for recruiting new members.

"The Young Alumni Program has been created specifically for recent graduates of Ohio University," said Maura Murphy, Director of the Ohio Bobcat Club. "We wanted to provide opportunities for these individuals to stay involved after completing their degree. The purpose of the Membership Referral Program is to strengthen the foundation of the Ohio Bobcat Club by growing our membership base. It is our hope that both programs provide more opportunities for individuals to support Bobcat student-athletes."

Formed in May of 2006, the Ohio Bobcat Club serves as the fundraising arm of Ohio Athletics. All annual gifts to athletics -- Tower Club, Phillips Club, unrestricted support and sport-specific giving -- occur within the Ohio Bobcat Club. The levels of membership begin at $100 and increase up to $10,000. The program includes eight levels of membership with varying benefits and a points system that prioritizes ticket purchasing and seat location privileges for all postseason events, bowl games, away games, conference tournaments and other special contests.

For more information or to make a contribution, contact the Ohio Bobcat Club directly at 740-593-1119.