MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. | Georgia College & State University's seventh annual Athletics Day of Giving returns Oct. 20, bringing the excitement of Athletics Alumni Weekend to one final, powerful moment: a day dedicated to the future of Bobcat Athletics. 

The annual tradition unites Bobcat fans, alumni, parents, families and friends from across the country to support GCSU's student-athletes and the 13 Bobcat athletics programs.  

This year's celebration begins Oct. 16 with the Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, followed by a full slate of Athletics Alumni Weekend events Oct. 17, including alumni games for men's basketball, tennis and baseball. The weekend concludes with Athletics Day of Giving Oct. 20, giving the entire Bobcat community an opportunity to carry the momentum of the weekend forward and make an impact on the future of GCSU Athletics. 

Athletics Day of Giving provides critical resources that directly enhance the student-athlete experience, including travel, training, equipment, facilities, gear, scholarships and other program needs. 100% of every dollar donated goes directly to the designated fund, ensuring each contribution supports the area selected by the donor. 

"Our Athletics Day of Giving is a powerful reflection of what makes Bobcat Nation so special," said Director of Athletics Wendell Staton. "When our alumni, parents, fans and friends come together, their generosity creates opportunities that directly impact our student-athletes. We are excited to celebrate our Bobcat tradition throughout Athletics Alumni Weekend and then come together once again on Oct. 20 to invest in the future of GCSU Athletics." 

This year's campaign goal is 1,200 gifts. Gifts of every size count toward the campaign, and donors can direct their support to the athletics program or designated fund that means the most to them. 

As a special donor appreciation gift, supporters who make a gift of $250 or more during Athletics Day of Giving will have the opportunity to receive an exclusive GCSU Athletics canvas tote bag. 

"Each year, we see the incredible difference our Bobcat community can make when we rally around our student-athletes," said Assistant Director of Athletics Partnerships Hampton Pelton. "This year, we're challenging Bobcat Nation to come together and reach 1,200 gifts. Whether you're an alum, parent, fan, friend or first-time donor, your participation helps build momentum and strengthens the student-athlete experience at GCSU." 

Early giving is now open. Supporters can make their Athletics Day of Giving gift today through the Athletics Day of Giving page and help build momentum toward the goal of 1,200 gifts. 

For businesses, parents or other supporters interested in creating an unlocking challenge or making a leadership-level contribution, please contact Hampton Pelton at hampton.pelton@gcsu.edu. 

From the Hall of Fame to alumni games and Deep Roots, this year's Athletics Alumni Weekend is a celebration of the people, traditions and experiences that make GCSU Athletics special. On Oct. 20, Bobcat Nation will have one more opportunity to come together and make an impact. 

This October, we're asking one simple question: Can we count on you to make your gift on Athletics Day of Giving? 

Thank you & Go Bobcats! 

About GCSU Athletics
Owning the top Academic Success Rate among all public colleges and universities in Division II for five consecutive academic years, the Georgia College Department of Athletics sponsors 13 varsity athletic programs at the NCAA Division II level. GCSU Athletics has won six consecutive Presidents' Awards for Academic Excellence and is a two-time winner of the PBC Commissioner's Cup and a four-time winner of the PBC Institution of the Year Sportsmanship Award. As a Division II program, Bobcat Athletics prides itself on balancing the life of the student-athlete, evidenced by the teams' continued appearances in postseason competition as well as high-level academic success and community service involvement. Bobcat Athletics embodies the mantra of "Graduating Champions for Life."