Southwestern University Unveils Pirate Athletic Association to Benefit Student-Athletes

GEORGETOWN, TEXAS - The Southwestern University Athletic Department is thrilled to unveil the Pirate Athletic Association (PAA), a new way to elevate the experience of each student-athlete. The PAA combines the previous efforts of the "S" Association and the Pirate Club into a variety of engagement opportunities.

Southwestern is home to over 500 student-athletes, more than one-third of the total student body, who compete across 20 varsity sports. The PAA aims to enhance donor support so that Pirate Athletics can deliver exceptional athletic experiences featuring top-tier training facilities, equipment, and travel arrangements, as well as enhancements to coaches recruiting travel and professional development.

"The Pirate Athletic Association provides a more streamlined way for our generous donors to direct their support to athletics," Southwestern University Athletic Director Ken Ralph said. "This is a key advancement for us as we continue to work towards providing the best possible experience for our students across our full array of varsity offerings."

With a new range of giving levels, donors can support their favorite Pirate teams and programs with a comfortable amount. Each giving level comes with special perks, from regular communication with coaches and administrators, up to in-game recognition and in-depth access to Southwestern Athletics.

The launch of the PAA features four unique ways to support Pirate Athletics. Annual giving provides the opportunity to directly impact the student-athlete experience, either by contributing to a specific sport, or to the athletic department as a whole. The Pirate Crew allows young alumni to give back by providing a way to give a smaller amount on a monthly basis that will still add up to create an incredible impact.

Diamond Pirates are those who make a cumulative annual gift of $12,000 or more to a specific sport within the athletic department or to the general athletic fund. Finally, endowments and estate planning are one of the most powerful ways to impact an athletic program. Endowment funds for specific teams help provide financial stability for the program in perpetuity.

Student-athletes at Southwestern embrace a commitment to excellence in both academic and athletic venues. Members of the PAA will play an instrumental role in shaping a future where Southwestern student-athletes thrive. To show your support and join the PAA, please visit southwestern.edu/paa.