This fall, the Canisius University Athletics Department, in partnership with the Office of Institutional Advancement, launched More than a Game, a six-week crowdfunding campaign to support student-athletes and varsity teams. The campaign ran from October 18 - December 1, 2021 with 1,183 donors rallying together to provide a total of $285,906 - surpassing the campaign goal of $275,000.
“Canisius student-athletes continue to do remarkable things on the field of play, in the classroom and in the community, and all while facing ongoing challenges as a result of Covid-19,” shared Athletics Director Bill Maher ’89. “I am grateful that the efforts of our athletes and coaches have been rewarded by so many contributing to this critical fundraising campaign. The success of this effort helps our programs reach their goals and raises the bar for future campaigns like this.”
The More than a Game campaign provided alumni, family and athletics boosters a platform to directly support the Blue & Gold Athletics Fund, or direct their gift to a specific team. Each program had a dedicated campaign page highlighting specific goals and priorities while displaying the progress of their campaign. In addition, each individual campaign page highlighted the generous donors that made a gift to the program.
Women’s basketball was among the 20 varsity teams to benefit from the More than a Game campaign, securing $9,915.
“We will use these gifts to enhance the overall experience of our student-athletes and to provide resources that will elevate us to the next level,” said Head Coach Sahar Nusseibeh. “Our program is so much more than a game. It centers around relationships and teamwork, fosters personal growth, educates and empowers, and provides life changing experiences and opportunities for our young women, ultimately preparing them for life after the game.”
Gifts to the men’s lacrosse program totaled $26,918 and support the team's goal of becoming the premier program in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) and beyond.
“The More than a Game campaign was a great success for the men’s lacrosse program, as it allows our staff to continue to provide an excellent student-athlete experience for the young men within our program,” explains Head Coach Mark Miyashita ’03.
The commitment and generosity that our alumni, family and friends have shown through their support of our Golden Griffin student-athletes and the More than a Game campaign continues to be inspiring. Thank you!
