WORCESTER, Mass. — In another record-setting year for Holy Cross Athletics, 4,966 donors contributed $3.9 million to the Crusader Athletics Fund (CAF) during the 2026 fiscal year. This marks a new benchmark for dollars raised and total donors to the athletics annual fund, surpassing last year's total by nearly 200 donors — and a 9.5 percent increase in dollars raised from fiscal year 2025.

Additionally, total new gifts and commitments to athletics in fiscal year 2026 exceeded $10.53 million, which also represents a new high water mark for the College — a 7 percent increase from the previous record set just last year in FY25. Generous commitments in support of an enhanced student-athlete experience, student-athlete development programming, Women's Excellence, and various capital enhancements combined with record annual giving to make this the most successful fundraising year on record. 

A total of 12 teams increased their support from fiscal year 2025, resulting in a difference of $550,000. Unrestricted gifts to the general athletics fund also increased by $116,000 from the year prior, a 23 percent increase.

"As we advanced our pursuit of comprehensive excellence in 2025-26, we were supported by the incredible generosity and commitment of our alumni, families and fans," said Kit Hughes, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. "I am supremely grateful and motivated by the work of the Crusader community and our clear alignment around building a sustainable and successful future here on The Hill. Thanks to all who continue to make a difference, we will keep advancing our mission of providing transformational experiences for all Holy Cross student-athletes!"

The success of this year was powered by our donor community investing in our student-athletes and teams. Highlights from this year include:

• Volleyball increased its donor total by 312 percent in FY26
• Women's rowing more than doubled its donor total from FY25, with 583 unique donors — a 241 percent increase
• Men's rowing had the most unique donors in FY26 (733)
• Women's soccer led the way with over $100,000 more raised compared to FY25 — an increase of 322 percent
• 12 sports increased their donor count, with men's hockey, men's rowing, volleyball, and women's rowing leading the way with 100+ more donors each
• Men's rowing, softball, volleyball, women's rowing, women's soccer, and women's swimming and diving increased both donor and dollar totals
• 100 percent of senior student-athletes made a gift to Holy Cross
• 58 percent of current parents of our student-athletes made a gift
• $1.1 million raised through annual Power of Purple Giving Day

For those looking to support Holy Cross Athletics and our student-athletes' pursuit of comprehensive excellence in 2026-27, visit goholycross.com/CAF for more information or to make your gift now. 

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