Prior to 2015, the Rattler Boosters were a meaningful partner in FAMU athletics, known for their fundraising efforts and community-building initiatives. They were responsible for major contributions, including the purchase of the first jumbotron/video board at the Lawson Center. However, disagreements with then-Athletic Director Milton Overton led to the decertification of the booster club and the subsequent launch of the Investing In Champions program by the athletics department.
One of the key assets of the Rattler Boosters was their control over gameday parking at Bragg Memorial Stadium and home basketball games. This control was taken away by Overton and brought under the direct management of the athletics department.
When a new group of supporters reorganized the boosters, they did so without the benefit of managing parking, a significant loss that has hindered their ability to regain their former influence and financial stability.
Nearly a decade later, the FAMU Rattler Boosters are still facing an uphill battle to fulfill their mission of supporting student-athletes, providing scholarships, and enhancing the overall athletic experience. Giving the boosters control over parking, again, is a critical step in rebuilding their presence and effectiveness. Without this control their ability to raise funds, improve facilities, and create a supportive community for student-athletes is severely limited. The return of parking control to the boosters could serve as a catalyst for renewed community support, and reignite a once valued athletic fundraising partner.
Oh, great --- let's jam the new AD with every request for a giveaway we can cook up. Exactly what she doesn't need, though I know she knows what this stupid job is. Payoffs and favors for insiders and their cousins.
ReplyDeleteCurrently, the Boosters have nothing to sell. This makes a lot of since. Athletics could still sell the End Zone Club....in the Investment In Champions Package.
Delete