VICTORIA – On February 7, 2024, the University of Victoria Vikes Giving Day set a record for the second consecutive year, exceeding all expectations, and raising a whopping $269,287 for varsity and club sports teams.
The campaign, aimed at celebrating and supporting varsity and club programs as they pursue excellence, witnessed a 70 per cent increase from year one, with alumni, parents, community, and friends coming together to break the department's previous Vikes Giving Day mark of $158, 676, set in 2023.
"The success of our second annual Vikes Giving Day is a testament to the incredible generosity of our supporters. We've created a day that not only strengthens our varsity and club sport programs but also fosters a community of giving and support. Thank you to all who gave – your support is truly making a difference for our student-athletes," said Associate Director, Sport Compliance & Student Support, Julianne Zussman.
In total, 745 donors contributed to this year's initiative—a 28 per cent increase from the inaugural event in 2023.
Other sport-specific challenges provided an opportunity for teams to earn additional bonus funds through successfully met matches—which they did.
The department also unlocked a $2,500 match earmarked for the Sports Injury Clinic. This clinic plays a crucial role in supporting Vikes programs by ensuring all varsity athletes maintain peak physical condition for optimal performance.
Vikes Giving Day by the numbers
As the inspiration behind Vikes Giving Day, the men's rowing program, who have a storied fundraising tradition, continues to garner the most unique donors, helping them raise
$43, 578.
Nineteen varsity and club teams participated in Vikes Giving Day, collecting a total of
799 total gifts.
The men's rugby program saw the most significant influx in
new donors this year following their 'Giving back for Giving Day' blood drive. Over
60 student-athletes and friends stepped up to donate blood to Canadian Blood Services Canada.
Nine out of 12 varsity teams met or exceeded their Vikes Giving Day target, illustrating a growing culture of philanthropy and proof that the power of sport truly brings people together.
The golf team, women's rowing team, and women's soccer team saw the biggest jumps, surpassing their fundraising targets and almost
doubling their originally set goals.
The women's rowing team brought in the most money this year, raising
$46, 112.
"The team is beyond excited to see the support that the community gave during giving day this year. We wanted to do an
ergathon to connect the dollars raised with hard work put in by the team. Everyone leaned into the challenge and had a blast while pulling a team total of 500kms," said
Jane Gumley, women's rowing head coach.
"We're using the funds to purchase a lightweight single and an electric outboard motor. The electric motor purchase is part of a pilot project that our team is participating in. UVic rowing is forging the path to an eco-friendly program, reducing our carbon footprint and noise pollution on the lake," continued Gumley.
The UVic Department of Athletics and Recreation relies heavily on the generosity of donor support, and while the Vikes Championship Breakfast continues to be the department's largest annual fundraiser, having generated $8 million over the last 16 years for student-athlete scholarships, Vikes Giving Day is another opportunity to engage those interested in supporting specific varsity and club programs and their fundraising initiatives.
All contributions made during this event will immediately improve the lives of UVic student-athletes who are making a significant impact on and off the court, field, and course.
View complete list of Vikes Giving Day results
Still want to support your favourite teams and clubs?
It's not too late to make a difference! Make a donation
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Also stay on the lookout for our Vikes Impact report in the spring, where we share all the teams and clubs have accomplished with your support!
