HAMILTON – The Marauder community is coming together once again to make a lasting impact on the student-athlete experience, as McMaster launches its sixth annual Marauder Giving Challenge, taking place Thursday, October 22.

Bringing together alumni, family, friends and supporters from across the McMaster community, the annual fundraising initiative provides an opportunity to invest directly in the University's varsity programs, helping student-athletes access the resources and opportunities they need to succeed in competition, in the classroom and beyond.

Each of McMaster's 36 varsity teams will participate in this year's campaign, sharing their unique priorities and rallying their communities in support of initiatives ranging from training and equipment to competition travel, athlete development and team-building opportunities.

Supporters can explore each team's fundraising priorities and make a contribution at marauders.ca/giving.

Investing in the student-athlete experience

At the heart of the Marauder Giving Challenge are the individual stories, needs and ambitions of McMaster's varsity programs.

Each participating team has developed a unique case for support, outlining how contributions can address specific needs and enhance the student-athlete experience. These priorities range from equipment and training resources to competition travel, nutrition, athlete development and initiatives that strengthen team culture.

"The impact of the Marauder Giving Challenge extends well beyond a single day of fundraising," says Keenan Jeppesen, Director of Athletics & Recreation at McMaster University.

"Over the years, the generosity of our alumni, families and supporters has helped our programs build on their success, invest in meaningful opportunities and create an environment where our student-athletes can thrive. When we look at the accomplishments of our teams today, that continued investment from the Marauder community has played an important role in helping us get here."

Across Marauder programs, contributions help offset the rising costs associated with university sport, reducing financial barriers and helping student-athletes balance the demands of academic life with training and competition.

While the needs of each program are different, the objective remains the same: ensuring Marauder student-athletes have the resources, opportunities and support to pursue excellence throughout their university experience.

"One of the things that makes the Marauder Giving Challenge so special is the opportunity it creates for every one of our varsity programs," said Skye Angus, Associate Director, Varsity Athletics.

"While some teams naturally receive more public attention throughout the year, every program has its own ambitions, challenges and dedicated group of student-athletes working incredibly hard to represent McMaster. This campaign gives those teams a platform to share their stories, connect with their communities and generate support that can make a real difference in their experience."

Supporters are encouraged to explore the individual team pages to learn more about the priorities that matter most to each program and how their contributions can make a meaningful difference.

"Throughout my 5 years here, I've seen firsthand the positive impact of growing donor support for our team operations. It's something we all appreciate so much, and honestly the change has been really noticeable; meals after practice, safer equipment, an upgraded locker room, it doesn't go unnoticed. That support has directly translated into our team success on the field, and we're grateful for everyone who invests in this program and in us."
–Anthony Sestanovic, McMaster Football

A little friendly competition goes a long way

Beyond the fundraising itself, the Marauder Giving Challenge brings a competitive element to the day, encouraging teams to engage their communities and unlock additional financial support. More than $25,000 in bonus funding and prizes will be available through a series of challenges designed to reward participation, creativity and community engagement.

Throughout October 22, teams will compete to attract supporters, engage alumni and students, and build momentum around their fundraising goals. Timed competitions and special challenges will provide opportunities to secure additional funding beyond the contributions made directly to their programs.

"By helping reduce player fees and supporting improvements to our diamond and facilities, donors allow us to spend more time focusing on what we love, playing, competing, and growing together as a team!"
– Paige Allen, McMaster Fastpitch

The challenges create opportunities for every member of the Marauder community to make an impact, with participation playing an important role alongside the total dollars raised.

A full breakdown of this year's challenges and available prizes can be found at marauders.ca/giving.

Giving Challenge returns to campus

Following its introduction in 2025, the Marauder Giving Challenge will once again feature an in-person component at the David Braley Athletic Centre, offering the McMaster community an opportunity to experience the excitement of the campaign firsthand.

The Marauder Giving Challenge hub will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on October 22, in the Fitzhenry Gallery near the Thérèse Quigley Sport Hall.

Students, staff, alumni and supporters are invited to stop by throughout the day to interact with Marauder student-athletes, learn more about participating programs and contribute to their teams of choice.

Visitors can also take part in the Director's Challenge, an in-person voting competition that awards $500 each to the two teams receiving the most votes. Voting will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with no donation required to participate.

The on-campus gathering provides another opportunity to celebrate the people behind the programs and the collective impact of the Marauder community.

Building on the strength of the Marauder community

The Marauder Giving Challenge has continued to grow through the generosity and commitment of alumni, families, friends and supporters who recognize the value of investing in student-athletes.
In 2025, the Marauder community contributed $218,302 through 804 gifts, establishing a new single-day fundraising record for the campaign.

Beyond the dollars raised, the annual initiative reflects the relationships built through university sport and the lasting connections between Marauder programs and the people who support them.

"By donating to our program, you are helping make these opportunities possible, for not only for our team today, but the athletes who will follow us. On behalf of the future athletes of McMaster field hockey, thank you for your invaluable contribution."
– Darcie Brohman, McMaster Field Hockey

For former student-athletes, the challenge offers an opportunity to give back to the programs and experiences that helped shape their time at McMaster. For families, friends and members of the broader community, it provides a direct way to support the next generation of Marauders.

Every contribution, regardless of size, helps strengthen the student-athlete experience and creates opportunities that extend well beyond the playing surface.

Be part of the challenge

Whether supporting a former team, celebrating a current student-athlete or simply investing in the future of Marauder Athletics, every gift plays a role in making a difference.

While the Marauder Giving Challenge officially takes place on Thursday, October 22, supporters can make their contributions now, with fundraising pages already open for all participating programs.

A number of bonus challenges and opportunities to unlock additional funding will take place specifically on October 22, giving supporters even more ways to maximize their impact.

To explore team fundraising priorities, learn more about this year's challenges or contribute, visit marauders.ca/giving.