Stellenbosch University’s (SU) #Train4Fees campaign, that aims to help student athletes who have lost financial backing due to the impact of Covid-19, is going into extra time.
Launched at the beginning of June by Maties Sport and the Development and Alumni Relations Division (DAR), the campaign now has an end date of August 31, and a new fundraising target of R2 million.
To date R732 137 has been raised, the number of registered fundraisers stands at 102 and this will enable it to give 23 students a financial lifeline thanks to funds raised by coaches, players, sport stars and ordinary Maties alike.
However, for Hans Scriba, fundraising manager, the finish line is not yet in sight.
In fact, he is looking to double the funds already raised… and expresses thanks to a generous donor who has committed to match all funds raised on a rand-for-rand basis.
“We currently have over 300
student athletes who have applied for financial assistance and we would ideally want to help all of them. Covid-19 is giving them a very tough time.
“These students are trying to pay the balance of their tuition fees, but lockdown, the virus and the economy are making things extremely difficult.
“And here at Stellenbosch University we’re not going to drop our student-athletes after all the time and effort they’ve put in – and still do,” says Mr Scriba.
“We are grateful for the tremendous support that our athletes have received thusfar, and we urge others to take up the challenge.
“For the past two months, supporters have been running, cycling and walking to raise funds,” he said.
“Many of our loyal Maties alumni have made significant contributions towards this campaign. We even have a five-year-old who took on a 50km walk,” says Karen Bruns, senior director of DAR.
For anyone who would like to be involved, they can sponsor any of the fundraisers on the Maties GivenGain platform in a chosen sport – rugby, soccer, cricket, netball and hockey – or support other sporting codes on the Maties Sport Page.
Alternatively, sign up to become a fundraiser for #Train4Fees, by either running, cycling, skateboarding or power walking whatever fitness training you enjoy.
