Aztec Athletic Foundation Raises Record Amount

July 13, 2004

SAN DIEGO - The Aztec Athletic Foundation's "The Drive 2004 - Rising to a New Level" set a fundraising record for the fourth straight year. At its Victory Celebration, the AAF announced that $1,243,251 was raised by the San Diego State community.

The new mark capped off a 10-week campaign in which individuals, as well as teams, worked together to raise scholarship money for SDSU student-athletes. Ben Bagnas raised $63,430, the most of any individual. The I-15 Aztec Road Warriors won the team competition with a 115 percent increase in renewals from the 2003 drive.

This was the AAF's most successful year to date. "The AAF volunteers rallied to surpass our $1.1 million total from last year at this point," said Bob Moosbrugger, Director of the Aztec Athletic Foundation. "Between outstanding renewals and our increased pledges, we should near the $1.5 million mark thanks to those generous Aztecs who increased their commitment."

The mission of the "The Drive 2004 - Rising to a New Level" was to encourage donors to increase their donations to help Aztec student-athletes strive for excellence both on and off the field. So far, the plan has been successful with over 20 percent of the total membership (485 donors) increasing their pledges.

"Trying to find new and increased dollars was our emphasis for this fund drive," says Craig Nelson, President of the Aztec Athletic Foundation. "With tuition rising 14 percent, the need for new money is imperative."

The AAF's ultimate goal is to reach $1.5 million by the end of the summer. To make your donation to the scholarship fund for San Diego State student-athletes and to assist the AAF in reaching its target, contact the AAF at (619) 594-6444 or log-on to www.goaztecs.com to make your contribution.