In August, as the 2023-24 year began, I introduced our new Cougar Core values. Commitment. Optimism. Unity. Growth. Appreciation. Resilience. SIUE Athletics has embodied each one this fall, and each value has impacted us as we have achieved success and made progress in and out of competition.  

A historic championship season for our men's soccer program. A record-breaking win for SIUE Golf. Welcoming talented and energetic new additions to our staff. Engaging with our community of alumni, donors, and fans. The creation of Eddieville at First Community Arena. The continued leadership development and academic excellence of our student-athletes.  

With fall sports now concluded, and during a week filled with reflection and gratitude, I find the core value Appreciation front and center on my mind.   

I am incredibly appreciative of so many that have stepped up and impacted the success of SIUE Athletics this fall. Our coaches and staff, student-athletes, university administration, alumni and donors, new and existing partners, Cougar fans, and countless others.  

As we move forward, continued growth will require the collective efforts and investment of all of us. We need your generosity to ensure that we have the resources to propel SIUE Athletics to more success, expedited progress, and new heights.   

In the midst of our Giving Tuesday campaign, that investment starts with me.  

Today, I am announcing the Sock It To the Director Challenge! Every gift of $60 or more between now and Giving Tuesday will receive a pair of SIUE Cougars socks. For every gift of $60 or more to SIUE Athletics or one of our programs, my wife Ashley and I pledge an additional $10 to the Cougar Athletic Excellence Fund.  

Please join us in supporting our student-athletes!  

With Appreciation, Go Cougars! 
 

Andrew Gavin  
Director of Athletics  

---  
The Cougar Athletic Excellence Fund is the primary fundraising arm supporting SIUE Athletics. Through philanthropic giving and generous investments, supporters of the Cougar Athletic Excellence Fund positively and profoundly impact our student-athletes and varsity programs.