STORY BY CARLY GRENFELL
I still remember the day I came to Drake University’s campus for the very first time nearly five years ago. Even as someone who was new to the recruiting process, everything about my experience told me this place was different from the rest. The campus, the academics, the facilities, the athletics and the people truly stuck with me from that point forward.
Quite frankly, at age 18, my expectations were minimal. I wanted to go somewhere not far from home, to get a good education and to fit in with my new teammates and the coaching staff. Drake University went above and beyond that, exceeding my expectations in so many ways.
It is remarkable to think the game of basketball, of all things, has led me to a place that continues to bring me tremendous joy day-in-and-day-out.
I believe that many other student athletes at Drake would say the same thing.
I can promise you that not one of us walked into our respective sport expecting people who we have never met to donate money that would enhance our athletic experiences.
The teams’ charter buses and charter flights are made possible through Bulldog Club donations.
It sounds so simple, yet it is an incredibly big deal, that we don’t have to miss class because we can fly to and from away games.
It is a big deal that we can bus safely and comfortably. It is a big deal that we can sleep in our own beds after an away game. It is a big deal that we are rested for upcoming practices. However, even though these perks are indispensible student athletes in more ways than I can name, our joy is not necessarily derived from all things tangible.
It is your acts of generosity – your relentless belief in everything Drake athletics stands for – which truly blow us away. It is not so much an expectation to be flown or bused to and from games as it is a privilege. The Bulldog Club contributions are invaluable to each and every student athlete. Every win, every practice and every achievement in the classroom: the Bulldog Club has had something to do with it.
I think I can I speak on behalf of the entire student athlete body when I say that we are lucky to have become part of Drake University , a place where we are valued as students, as athletes and as people. Your donations truly do matter. And for that, we thank you.