LEWISTON, Maine -- The sixth annual Friends of Bates Athletics Giving Challenge proved to be another runaway success, setting a new standard for funds raised at $697,192.

"We set out to break our previous record for total funds raised, and Bobcat nation did not disappoint," Director of Athletics Jason Fein said. "Each year, the challenge grows, and our student-athletes, coaches, alums and supporters get more and more creative in their outreach and generosity. The creativity that our teams put into their social media game is impressive, and the message is clearly received, as we raised nearly $700,000 that will help support the student-athlete experience at Bates. I could not be more thankful!"

Taking place May 8-10 this year, the FBA Giving Challenge is designed to provide specific program benefits — such as funding for expanded travel and training opportunities, better equipment, and stepped-up recruiting efforts — as well as support that's more intangible, such as reaffirming the Bates culture of giving back.

"The 2024 FBA Challenge had record-breaking results in support of all of our hard working student-athletes and teams," Vice President for College Advancement Eric Foushée said. "This generosity continues to help ensure Bates teams can compete at the highest levels and builds momentum for the future. Thank you and go Bobcats!"

The inaugural FBA Giving Challenge in 2019 raised $189,127, and the total jumped to $258,108 in 2020 despite a global pandemic. The money raised has been increasing every year, with 1,940 donors participating this time around, well beyond the donor goal of 1,174, chosen because it's the total number of Bobcats who compete in varsity and club sports.

The football program raised the most money among Bates teams at $114,237. For the fourth straight year, the Bates swimming and diving program led the way when it came to total donors, with 349 contributors.