Help develop players' warrior ethos and leadership skills through competition.

The Air Force Academy men’s club lacrosse team, established in 2021, is in the early stages of providing an additional opportunity for cadets to develop into leaders of character. As the club creates the foundation for future successes, it needs funding to cover travel costs for competitions outside Colorado Springs. Gifts help pay for several big-ticket costs: airline tickets to either Minneapolis or San Diego, rental cars and referee fees. To send a 30-person team to either of these cities for a few days will cost the club around $10,000. In addition to providing equipment and offsetting travel costs, your donation supports a sport that will help develop players’ warrior ethos and leadership skills through competition.

Recent support of the USAFA men's lacrosse club has been incredibly impactful, helping create a competitive and rewarding environment for the cadet players. Because of Falcon Funder gifts, the team traveled to Provo, Utah, at the end of the Spring 2022 season to participate in the conference playoffs. As one of the three trips in which the team traveled out of state last season, the competition gave players the opportunity to represent the Academy, meeting new people and practicing teamwork and discipline in a competitive environment. They ended their first season ranked 25th in the country.

Continued philanthropic support is essential to pay for the team’s programs budget. Current funding to run the team comes from several different areas: the Academy’s non-appropriated funds (NAF), club dues (approximately $600 per player) and the generosity of valued supporters. The availability of non-appropriated funds is limited. Therefore, contributions are crucial for ensuring the team has a viable season with plenty of games.

The cadets on this club team want to showcase their talents outside of Colorado Springs while representing the Academy in a positive manner. They are excited to be part of this new club for several reasons, such as meeting new people, practicing leadership and teamwork skills, and traveling to compete.