Bobcat Club 21-22

Dear Bobcat Nation,

It was great to see so many Bobcat fans at Converse this past Saturday. My family joined me as we watched our teams successfully get the sweep! Road wins are special, as is the annual Christmas wish-list letter to our members. As I reflected back on previous wish lists, I couldn't help but be overcome with gratitude for so many fulfilled blessings. We have a supportive group. 

This year’s list will include the usual dreams, as well as long-term strategies to help Lees-McRae achieve excellence. 

• Seeing the significance the turf field and gym renovations had on our teams, I can’t help but imagine what an indoor facility would do for the rest of our programs. Our 2030 Facilities Master Plan incorporates a new space that would include an enhanced athletic training room, locker rooms, office and storage space, and more. 
• Having a press box on Bobcat Bank would showcase the turf and Hanging Rock in the distance, and add to the game-day experience for those who can’t be here to witness it in person. 
• A fieldhouse associated with the press box that included bathrooms would solve a lot of problems all in one. Imagine a viewing tower for Bobcat Club members, reception area, or meeting space. So many possibilities!
• LED lights at the stadium will be needed soon, especially with the practices we have after dark.
• Our indoor and outdoor tennis facilities need upgrades.
• As our crowds grow, we want to find ways we can better serve them. Having a mobile beverage cart with merchandise for Bobcat fans to buy during games and wear off the mountain would be huge.
• Internships and jobs are what will help spread the great work of our Bobcat students to others. Let’s look to interview and hire our students. You can work with Grace Champion, director of Career and Life Planning, to make this possible. 
• Roadies, Bobcat supporters who live in areas where our teams play, can help support our athletes by providing drinks, snacks, or dinner. Get to know our young people! Check out our calendar and make plans to do something special by contacting me or the coach. 
• Mentors who have walked the same path as our athletes and would like to share personal advice, guidance, or a simple conversation with our athletes would make a huge difference. Contact Katie Talbert to make this happen.
• Want to link yourself with Bobcat Athletics? Let us collaborate on something our students would enjoy. From a Green Out T-shirt giveaway to an Ice Cream Social, the opportunities for game promotions are endless.
• We would like to build a storage shed to keep our areas decluttered as well as protect some of our investments from the harsh weather of Banner Elk.
• Installing bear-proof trashcans will increase safety on campus and keep our grounds looking tidy.
• Decals on our buses will add to our marketing across the state. Let's build recognition of Bobcats on the road! 
• Share with friends how to impact our young people through the Bobcat Club.

The INEXPRO 2030 Strategic Plan breaks down our goals for the college over the next decade. Check it out on our website to see what we have in store and learn more about how you can support Lees-McRae. 

Your love for this college is evident, and speaks volumes to all. Continue to promote, market, sing, and shout the great praises occurring on this campus daily. The positive energy in Banner Elk is amazing. Join in to keep the momentum going!

I wish all of you a wonderful holiday! We are seeing joy spread regularly here, and I'm very fortunate to share glimpses of this. 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,

Craig