10 for 10: No. 5 - Community Support

The costs of delivering a first-class university athletics program are not insignificant, and the Dinos rely on external funding sources to augment student and university dollars to provide an outstanding student-athlete experience.  The 2010s saw the community step up in a big way, to the tune of more than $25 million raised to support operations, enhancements, and scholarships - and this support is directly correlated to the program's success.

In 2009, 171 Dinos student-athletes received just under $400,000 in total athletic scholarships. By 2019, 284 student-athletes received financial support, with the total dollar value nearing $1 million - a 146 per cent increase in a decade.

The financial support has come from across the spectrum, with individuals, groups, and corporations providing the Dinos with enhanced means. Alumni have been at the centre of the fundraising effort, with former Dinos leading the charge to support today's student-athletes - all aided by a scholarship matching program from the university which has unlocked significant contributions from the community.

While all Dinos programs have benefited from enhanced financial opportunities, three programs saw the most significant investment in the 2010s - and each went on to win a national championship in the decade as a direct result.

The Joan Snyder Program of Excellence in women's hockey transformed the Dinos program, taking it all the way to the program's first national championship in 2012.

In men's basketball, the Dinos Sixth Man Club has completely changed the financial picture for the program, and the results speak for themselves: in the past four years, the Dinos have captured three Canada West titles, made three national final appearances, and won the 2018 national championship - the program's first.

And in football, the Dinos 5th Quarter Association is the most supportive alumni group in the nation, providing annual financial, mentorship, coaching, and other support to the reigning Vanier Cup champions. In addition to funds raised directly, the 5th Quarter also unlocks other funding opportunities - including the largest single donation in Dinos history to establish the John Forzani Memorial Athletic Awards.

There's still time to get involved! Donations received prior to Dec. 31 will be eligible for a 2019 tax receipt.

CLICK HERE for further details on how to support the University of Calgary Dinos.