Athletics Advancement
Since Rockne was at the helm, the Department of Athletics has played an undeniable role in Notre Dame’s international visibility, its cherished place in the hearts of alumni and fans, and, ultimately, its climb to the upper ranks of the academy.
Notre Dame now sponsors 26 varsity sports, all of which have earned or are on their way to national prominence. The Office of Athletics Advancement is charged with finding the means to support these teams and the student-athletes who embody the Notre Dame spirit on and off the field.
While certain athletic programs continue to be a source of revenue for the University, others are in need of donor support, particularly in terms of renovating badly outdated facilities. Chief among these is the Joyce Athletic and Convocation Center, which has seen no major renovations since it opened in 1969, despite being home to our championship men’s and women’s basketball teams.
Other varsity programs, including softball, tennis, and lacrosse, need funding for new stadiums that will provide practice and competition space commensurate with the level of talent and achievement displayed by our student-athletes.
In addition, there is an ongoing and substantial need for athletics grants-in-aid, both endowed and expendable, that can assist our coaches in recruiting the most talented student-athletes to Notre Dame.
To learn more about how you can support Notre Dame Athletics, please contact:
Notre Dame’s Top Twosome
Twin sisters Catrina and Christian Thompson (’07) came to Notre Dame their freshman year as two of the top junior tennis players in the country. By their sophomore year, they were the first Irish doubles team in the history of the program to rank No. 1 nationally.
But they might never have chosen Notre Dame without the benefit of athletics grants-in-aid. The Thompsons had also seriously considered North Carolina and Arizona, but when Notre Dame was able to offer both twins scholarships, they decided to come to South Bend.
“UNC and Arizona both had better facilities,” admits Christian, “but it was very important for us to go to school together.” Growing up in Las Vegas, they’d never been apart—or so far away from home.
“When we came to ND on our recruiting trip,” adds Catrina, “Coach Louderback took us out on the football field.” Looking out at the sea of green shirts in Notre Dame Stadium, the Thompsons knew that as Irish student-athletes, they’d have the support of the best fans in college athletics. Sometimes, they say, there is just no comparison.
They have never regretted their decision. “We have this strong community here at Notre Dame,” says Catrina. “We really are a family.”
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Video: Milo Dodson ‘08