It has been an amazing fall for Cougar Athletics with not only our sport programs, but our athletic department, accomplishing so much. We have seen the power of philanthropy and the positive impact you, as a CAF member, are making on our student-athletes and entire athletics program.

In October, we celebrated the ribbon cutting of the Taylor Sports Complex. At that time, I mentioned it was a momentous day for WSU Athletics as the facility exceeded what we all dreamed was possible. Upon reflection, I feel even stronger about it today. The investment and the vision of the Taylor, Long and Alger families, as well as the more than 470 donors who invested in the project, humble and inspire me. We cannot thank you enough for your generosity and support.

Another project we are so excited about that greatly benefits our student-athletes is the Champions Center, which will be the new home of our academic, nutrition, and mental health areas. This facility could not have been accomplished without the tremendous donor support we have received. Please know that by investing in our student-athletes you are making a significant difference in their lives and for that we are so appreciative. The Champions Center is nearly finished, and we look forward to its grand opening this winter.

As I mentioned, it has been an amazing fall for our athletic programs. Our soccer team had another strong season, finishing fourth in the WCC and recording the eighth-straight season with a winning record. Volleyball continues a great season under first-year head coach Korey Schroeder after earning a berth to the National Invitational Volleyball Championship (NIVC), marking the program's ninth consecutive postseason appearance. Furthermore, our cross-country programs had two freshmen qualifiers for the NCAA Championships, with NCAA West Regional, WCC Champion, and WCC Men's Co-Runner of the Year Evans Kurui earning All-America honors in his first year in Pullman.

Football concluded the regular season with an 8-4 record, meaning the Cougs are going bowling! While we look forward to where the Cougars' destination will be in the postseason, their success has equated to impressive numbers for the Pledge Per Touchdown campaign, presented by Gesa Credit Union. Heading into the bowl game, the Cougars have scored 60 touchdowns, which has equated to $89,040 in support of the Unleash Excellence Fund. We look forward to what the number will be at the end of the season and appreciate all those who have participated in the campaign. 

The significance of your investment is reflected in the hard work and successes of our student-athletes. They have provided us with wonderful memories throughout the fall sports season and we look forward to more tremendous moments with our winter sports underway.

I stated in my August Quarterly Update message that your support plays a critical role in shaping our future. We are so appreciative for your investment in Cougar Athletics, whether it is to the Cougar Athletic Fund, NIL, buying tickets, attendance at our events or tuning in to our games with our broadcast partners.

Thank you for all you do for Cougar Athletics. From our family to yours, we wish you a wonderful holiday season.

Go Cougs!