The Boosters provides funds directly to all IHS athletic teams on a rotating basis to help pay for uniforms, equipment, and other items. In addition, we have a yearly budget for the Athletic Director to use as needed.
In March, we hold the annual Crab Feed fundraiser where we raise money for our general budget as well as special fund-a-need projects for the following year. At this event, teams are invited to come and mingle with Crab Feed guests to give them an opportunity to fundraise for their team/club.
This year, funds provided by the Boosters and Crab Feed donations for football went toward uniforms and helmets.
According to Coach Brian Martinez, one of the unique aspects of football is certain positions require specific uniform numbers to play in sanctioned games. This rule requires teams to have more uniforms than athletes in order to make sure each athlete is properly equipped. It’s impossible to predict, in a small schools, how many kids will be at each position and exactly which numbers will be needed. Therefore a small surplus is needed.
One helmet now costs close to $1,000 and is only certifiable for ten years. As many of our old helmets are being rotated out of service we are taking advantage of the modern technology included in the new generation of helmets that help keep our kids as safe as possible. Sensors in the helmets alert coaches and trainers to any impact that could result in injury. We also receive data on a weekly basis that helps me keep track of impacts on the team overall and where we stand against the national average.
“Football is one of the most costly sports to fund. With the price of mandatory equipment and the regulations surrounding that equipment, we would not be able to stay afloat without Boosters.”
“As I’m going into eighth season of coaching Incline Football, I can’t help but appreciate what this team and this game have done for so many of our young athletes. While I’m proud of the growth and on field success we have had over the years, I’m more proud of the character, work ethic and lifelong friendships this team has created. I can’t stress enough how none of this could be done without the help of Boosters.”
A huge congratulations to Coach Martinez, the IHS coaching staff, and the IHS football team for an impressive season so far. We are proud to support them and are grateful to our donors for enabling us to do so.