COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
MORE THAN JUST A GAME®
FIESTA BOWL
Charities
The Fiesta Bowl Organization is committed to advancing the Arizona community by focusing on our three pillars: Youth, Sports and Education.
Youth
Tomorrow’s great stories come from investments we make today. Supporting causes that impact youth of Arizona is at the center of our mission. Whether it is building infrastructure, innovation for the next generation or charitable funds through our grant process Fiesta Bowl Charities is committed to serving youth in our communities. We believe in the children of today… who will become the leaders of tomorrow.
Sports
Supporting sports endeavors for thousands of Arizonans is core to the Fiesta Bowl commitment to community. Fun and shared experiences are at the forefront of our sports activities. We also recognize the power in learning teamwork, mutual sacrifice, physical fitness and commitment. Fiesta Bowl Charities fosters those values through its dedication to sports events, equipment and sports experiences that allow groups of people to achieve something bigger than themselves.
Mission
The Fiesta Bowl is dedicated to providing premier college football bowl experiences and local events that serve as economic drivers for Arizona and provide charitable resources for our community.
Education
The pathway to success for today’s future leaders starts within the classroom of those who educate the next generation. The power of education – and the enormous role teachers and school administrators play in bringing it to life – is at the heart of Fiesta Bowl Charities. Across the state of Arizona, our commitment to access and quality of education is found in hundreds of schools and thousands of students… and an impressive list of classroom wishes made today for a better tomorrow.
WE ARE Who
DirectorsBOARD OF
The strategic force behind the Fiesta Bowl Organization and its continued success as a pillar of the community is its Board of Directors. These volunteer leaders set the standard of governance by implementing policies, stewarding finances and determining the Bowl’s strong future direction.
Randal Norton*
Ray Artigue
Patrick Barkley
Brian Bednar
Brett Benton
Judy Bernas
Tim Brown
Dr. Javier Cardenas
Dave Dorward
Ed Erhardt
Mark Fast
Marchelle Franklin
Harry Garewal
Bryce Hancock
Gary Hanson
James Hatfield
Rob Longo
Kelly Mero
Tom O’Malley
John Rawicz
Don Reese
Dawn Rogers
Rachel Sacco
Denise Seomin
Gene Smith
Nick Smith
Mike Wilcox
Glenn Wong
It was another remarkable season in 2022-23 for Fiesta Bowl Charities. Behind our three pillars of Youth, Sports and Education, we once again proved that we are “More Than Just a Game®.”
Since our founding in 1971, our motto has been on display every day. Our commitment to community extends far beyond football, as the impact of Fiesta Bowl Charities is showcased in neighborhoods across the great state of Arizona.
Through the support of a record-breaking College Football Playoff at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, the Guaranteed Rate Bowl and our year-round community events, Fiesta Bowl Charities had a profound impact on Arizona nonprofit organizations and educators. The charitable donations benefitted over a million people statewide, including 400 Arizona teachers who received a total of $1 million through Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers.
In this year’s Community Impact Report, you’ll see numerous events that Fiesta Bowl Charities put on throughout the state of Arizona. It’s a massive scope of projects ranging from a playground build in Fort Mohave to a community resource room in Bisbee to acts of kindness across the state.
* Chair of the Board of Directors
It is because of the great work of our volunteers, partners, Ambassadors, Yellow Jacket Committee, staff and Board of Directors that this is all possible. Most importantly, I want to thank the community who honor our great tradition of giving back by supporting us throughout the year. Indeed, this is “More Than Just a Game®” – and none of this would be possible without commitment from each of our constituents!
2022-23 SEASON
40 ARIZONA NONPROFITS
RECEIVED A FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES GRANT
140,000
BENEFITTED FROM SPORTS PROGRAMMING
230,582
ARIZONA YOUTH SUPPORTED
240,000+
SUPPORTED THROUGH EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
ARIZONANS IMPACTED 1,000,000+
6,090 HOURS LOGGED IN FINANCIAL LITERACY & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT LESSONS
FamilyFIESTA BOWL STAFF
At the heart of our organization, Fiesta Bowl staff brings a strong commitment to excellence and community service. Our team works year-round to achieve our mission, ensuring our Bowl games, events and community efforts have maximum impact for Arizonans.
Erik Moses*
Marcos Arroyo
Julie Atherton
Sandra Avila
Gail Avisar
Noah Berlin
Maria Boyle
Kristina Chumpol
Tony Econ
Stacy Gewecke
Timothy Gleason
Emily Holden
Stayson Isobe
Izabella Jade
Rosemary James
Samantha Kreiser
Curt Krizan
Karra Labombarde
Scott Leightman
Jose Moreno
Paige Mueller
Lenny Paoletta
Brenda Puga
Jessica Sallurday
Baily Strauss
Ashley VanOchten
Suzie Warren
Billy Welsh
Bob Whitehouse
Jennifer Williams
Makayla Wolf
Seasonal Associates
Madi Forseth
Alex Iervasi
Ethan Labeth
Kate Lawrence
Taylor Madwin
Marena Sever
Jake Shoen
Tanner Zambito * CEO and Executive Director
FamilyFIESTA BOWL
YELLOW JACKET COMMITTEE
The Yellow Jacket Committee is a team of community leaders who dedicate their time and effort to fundraising and helping stage all events year-round. Through their commitment and leadership, they help execute Fiesta Bowl events, achieve charitable giving efforts and positively impact the Arizona community.
Ramey Peru*
Bob Aggarwal
Jonathan Amato
Jeffrey Anderson
Eric Barkyoumb
Scott Bernstein
Bryan Beverly
Damon Boze
Robert Bridge
Taylor Burgoon
Jake Butterfield
Joe Cafferelli
Jennifer Cannon
Gene Carl
John Craiger
Walker Crowson
Patrick Davis
Arthur (Jason) De Luigi
Brian Debnam
Ryan Delaney
Jon Drago
Kirk Fonfara
Ben Fredlake
Adam Fullerton
Jeff Gallego
Dean Gekas
Chelsey Golightly
Jeffrey Golner
Chris Gracey
Darius Green
Brian Gubernick
Kirk Harbaugh
Bob Hart
Ryan Hatch
Brandon Hebert
Troy Hoberg
Joe Hourigan
Randle House
Daniel Johnson
Patrick Joyce
Raj Kapur
Jim Kebert
Nick Kieffer
John Knebel
Lucas Kraut
Steven Kruczek
Patrick Kurish
Jonathan Levin
Mike Lindsley
Jake Logan
Trevor Martin
Ty Martin
Elroy Masters
Tim McBride
Kirk McClure
Sean McElenney
Kyle McMillian
Craig Mercure
John Meza
Brett Miller
Brian Moll
Brad Morin
Michael Muraco
Justin Naber
Gary Naquin
Barry Nelson
Tim Newquist
Ed Olsen
Brian O’Malley
Jerry Pence
Kelly Peru
Shane Peterlin
Calvin Platten
Tim Potter
Michael Rossman
Richie Schmock
Logan Senoski
Davina Seville
Andrew Shultz
Robert Simmons
Phil Skiba
Brad Smidt
Ben Smith
Jeff Smith
Greg Stark
Max Starks
Jim Stevens
Joe Strening
Jennifer Swanton
Christopher Tuma
Sean Ward
Josh Wein
David Weissman
Andrew Western
Antone White
Larry White
Frank Zimmerman
FamilyFIESTA BOWL
AMBASSADORS
Our Ambassadors provide a first-class experience for all who participate in Fiesta Bowl events. Throughout the year, the Ambassadors support the organization at events and community outreach opportunities across the state of Arizona and at our Guaranteed Rate Bowl and Vrbo Fiesta Bowl.
Associate Ambassadors
Angela Braun
Julia Fischer
Joanne Goldberg
Leslee Herztein
Jodi Kavis
Kim Kennedy
Will Ng
Jasmine Singleton
Tammy White
Active Ambassadors
Julie Angle
Pauline Argeros*
Nicole Barrington
Kyla Braker
Karen Casassa
Donna Cooper
Vicki Fiorelli-Starkovich
Mary Gleason
Terri Hall
Laura Hardy
Samantha Johnson
Wendy Manning
Erin McCormick
Ambreiah Mims
Ronda Parker
Gail Reed
Deborah Ross-Carter
Deborah Rothstein
Sandra Searle
Alethea Session
Annie Vainisi
Emerita Ambassadors
Tammie Armeni
Marilyn Bechtold
Marisa Calderon
Ellen Casey
Kathleen Casey-Walker
Allison Chafin
Sally Clements
Josefina Comstock
Lora Dal Bo
Laura Davis
Lourdes D’Sylva
Dennice Dunaway
Le Lani Forrest
Vicki Frailey
Lorraine Gentile
Judy Greene
Janey Haugen
Carolyn Holden
JoAnn Holland
Shelly Huckfeldt
Simone Janssen
Vera Kelly
Monica Kruck
Marie Larson
Kathy Leazotte
Sheryl Long
Hillary Mackowski
Deborah Maloney
Susanna Martinez
Kathie May
Kelly McCormick
Elaine Molski
Val Nikolaus
Jan Nowell
Sheila Perkins
Amy Peters
Carol Piowarsy
Irma Prescott
Linda Rondeau
Sooz Rudolph
Stephanie Ruiz
Amy Schapira
Melanie Smith
Chantri Sukpon
Gayle Tanber
LaBertha Umbreit
Stephanie Van Gorder
Molly Weiss
Anna Williams
Brittany Wilson
Judith Wodash
* Ambassador Chair
Volunteerism
Impact is made beyond just donating resources... it’s found in actions
The Fiesta Bowl is honored to support the Arizona community all year round through volunteerism. This past season, more than 3,000 volunteers dedicated their time to community projects throughout the state.
Their impact is intensified during Bowl Season as Fiesta Bowl volunteers, Yellow Jackets, Ambassadors and Board of Directors commit around-the-clock hours providing first-class hospitality at events and two prominent college football games.
Spirit
Spirit was created from a solar flare in 1971 and found his way to Arizona.
Bursting with energy, Spirit worked to find someone to partner with that shared in his uniqueness. Spirit heard rumblings of a new college football bowl game called the Fiesta Bowl and since he loves to be the life of the party, the Fiesta Bowl was a perfect match!
However, Spirit wanted More than Just a Game. He wanted to partner with an organization that shared his values of youth, sports and education. He had found his home. Since that loyal meet up, Spirit and the Fiesta Bowl have been a staple of the Valley. Every day, Spirit brings the same energy as the solar flare from which he came.
& Charitable Giving LEGACY PROJECTS
Grant Cycle FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES
During the 2022–23 season, Fiesta Bowl Charities supported 40 nonprofit organizations and six Legacy Projects. Each partnering organization and project aligns with our mission and further impacts the Arizona community through our pillars of youth, sports and education.
Through this grant cycle, more than 614,000 Arizona youth were supported and benefited from sports and/or educational programming.
Ability360 Sports & Fitness Center
Arizona Council on Economic Education
Arizona Burn Foundation
Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation
Arizona Science Center
Assistance League of Phoenix
Back To School Clothing Drive
Barrow Neurological Foundation
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale
Camp Catanese Foundation
Chinle Planting Hope
Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
Dignity Health Foundation - East Valley
Educational Enrichment Foundation
Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona
Future for KIDS
Girl Scouts—Arizona Cactus-Pine Council
GCU: CityServe
HopeKids Arizona
ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth
Junior Achievement of Arizona
Kids Can Succeed Foundation
Military Assistance Mission
Muscular Dystrophy Association
MVP Foundation
notMYkid
Read Better Be Better
Rosie’s House: A Music Academy for Children
Science of Sport
Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Special Olympics Arizona
St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance
Team of Physicians for Students
The Be Kind People Project
First Tee – Phoenix
The Z Kick for Life Foundation
Treasures 4 Teachers
UMOM New Day Centers
Valleywise Health Foundation
With the support of Fiesta Bowl Charities, notMYkid has been able to elevate our well-being campus from a vision to reality for youth in need. We are so grateful for this investment from Fiesta Bowl Charities to create a comprehensive activity center that will be equipped with a sport court, mindfulness studio, and a healing space for the arts and music. What Fiesta Bowl symbolizes to me in every possible way, is love, kindness, and hope.
KRISTEN POLIN Chief Executive Officer notMYkidThe grant we received from Fiesta Bowl Charities will have a huge impact on middle school boys who attend our three-day MVP Leadership Academy, showing them there is a path to success for them. These funds allow our Foundation to take over 80 boys to an allexpense paid weekend in Williams, AZ to learn about leadership, plan for their future, hear a well-known leadership speaker, and talk in smaller groups about the challenges they are facing. You help us all achieve success!
RONDA PARKER Executive Director MVP FoundationFiesta Bowl’s valuable support is helping the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona bring fresh local produce and nutrition education kits to children and families in need at school pantries across Tucson and on the tribal lands of the Tohono O’odham Nation. This work is so important in connecting local, sustainable agriculture to households experiencing limited access to healthy food. Thank you for helping us move towards a healthy, hunger-free community!
MALEA CHAVEZ President and CEO Community Food Bank of Southern ArizonaPLAYGROUND BUILDS
Fiesta Bowl Charities partnered with KABOOM! and extraordinary community organizations across the state of Arizona to impact thousands of youth through new playspaces across the state.
KABOOM! FORT MOHAVE
Volunteers came together over three days in Fort Mohave to build a brand-new playground and a sport court at the Boys & Girls Club of the Colorado River. This provides the community’s youth with a fun and safe place to play and have fun.
BHHS Legacy Foundation is extremely pleased with the results of the Fort Mohave Sports Complex. Our board members and staff enjoyed collaborating with Fiesta Bowl Charities, PNC Bank, Lerner & Rowe, KABOOM! and volunteers to bring this dream to life for the Fort Mohave Community. The Fort Mohave Sports Complex and the new Fort Mohave Boys & Girls Club are invaluable additions to the community and support our mission to enhance the health and life of those we serve.
JERRY WISSINK CEO BHHS Legacy FoundationKabooom!PLAYGROUND BUILDS
KABOOM! GLENDALE
More than 150 volunteers came together at O’Neil Park in Glendale to build a new playground and a sport court for over 6,000 community youth to enjoy. Located in the heart of Glendale, this exceptional outdoor space promotes daily exercise for youth of all ages.
We are really excited to partner with Fiesta Bowl Charities to bring a new playground and sport court to our community. This collaboration demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in creating positive change and enhancing the lives of children. This playground will provide a safe and fun space for our youth and we are grateful to the Fiesta Bowl Charities for making a lasting impact in our community.
GLENDALE COUNCILMEMBER JAMIE ALDAMA
Partnering with community leaders and Fiesta Bowl Charities allows Palo Verde the opportunity to give back to our community with like-minded partners. The Glendale KABOOM! playground build was a wonderful opportunity for us to roll up our sleeves and make a lasting contribution to an awesome neighborhood!
KORY RAFTERY Manager Palo Verde External AffairsKabooom!PLAYGROUND BUILDS
KABOOM! SKYLINE
Over 100 volunteers gathered for three days, to build a brand-new playground for the students of AZ Compass Prep School in Chandler. The 2,500 square foot space serves an elementary school that did not have a playground.
This marks the third playground in three cities that SRP and its employees have helped to build in partnership with Fiesta Bowl Charities. The new structures represent SRP’s rich history of building and investing in our community dating back to 1903. It’s a point of pride that current and future generations will enjoy the playgrounds constructed in SRP service territory and impact areas.
ANDREA MORENO Manager of Community OutreachSRP
Play is an important part of a child’s social and emotional growth. This playground has completely transformed the students’ play area, giving them opportunities to interact with classmates, be physically active, and most important to have fun and enjoy being a kid.
SWEN ANDERSON President Skyline EducationDedicationFOOTBALL FIELD
Fiesta Bowl Charities donated the game field from the 2022 Guaranteed Rate Bowl to the local community in Glendale. More than 80,000 square feet of sod was installed at O’Neil Park, completing the Fiesta Bowl Sports Complex in partnership with BHHS Legacy Foundation, PNC Bank, AZSTA and City of Glendale.
FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES
TeacherRenovationLounge
AT ALHAMBRA HIGH SCHOOL
Fiesta Bowl Charities unveiled a renovated staff and teacher lounge at Alhambra High School, a Title I school in Central Phoenix.
The area provides a fresh space for staff and teachers as they serve over 2,000 students and families.
The Alhambra Lions are so grateful to Fiesta Bowl Charities. Our refreshed staff lounge allowed staff members to relax and regenerate during the workday, and has also allowed us to come together as a community. We do so much in our revamped space: host events and collaborate on important issues in a space inspiring creativity. The work done by Fiesta Bowl has helped us get back to centering our work through collaboration and rebuilding the sense of togetherness that we have been missing. Thank you, Fiesta Bowl!
DR. JODI WEBER Alhambra High School PrincipalFIESTA BOWL CHARITIES
Community Resource Room AT
BISBEE SCIENCE LAB
Fiesta Bowl Charities, in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and the Bisbee Unified School District, unveiled and celebrated the renovated and newly-named Fiesta Bowl Charities Community Resource Room at the Bisbee Science Lab.
On average, up to 50 Bisbee community members will utilize the Fiesta Bowl Charities Community Resource Room daily and benefit from the creative outlet and enriching learning space it fosters.
We are proud to partner with the Fiesta Bowl for the fourth consecutive year to bring another resource room to life, this year in Bisbee. By providing our youth with resources and learning opportunities, we are helping create a brighter future for Arizona.
PAM KEHALY President & CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield of ArizonaWhat a wonderful opportunity given to us by Fiesta Bowl and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. The project enhances the work that the Bisbee Science, Exploration and Research Center is doing in the region and allows the Bisbee Science Lab and the Copper Queen Library to have an exciting new outside learning space that will allow us to expand all our programs.
ETTA KRALOVEC Board Chairman Co-Executive Director Bisbee Science Lab& EVENTS Programs
ARIZONA BANK & TRUST
Fiesta Bowl Kickoff Luncheon
PRESENTED BY CAESARS SPORTSBOOK
With the beginning of college football season comes our annual Arizona Bank & Trust Fiesta Bowl Kickoff Luncheon presented by Caesars Sportsbook.
Attendees from all over the Valley joined for lunch and a presentation to kickstart the season. This year’s keynote speakers were College Football Hall of Famer Raghib
“Rocket” Ismail and broadcasting pioneer Alex Flanagan.
Here at Arizona Bank & Trust, day in and day out, we prioritize giving back to the communities where we live and work. Every year we donate to hundreds of community organizations - not only with our treasure but also with our employees’ time. That’s why we are honored to continue to partner with the Fiesta Bowl and support the Fiesta Bowl Kickoff luncheon. The luncheon kicks off the college football season here in the Valley – and highlights the incredible charitable work the Fiesta Bowl does in our communities.
BILL CALLAHAN CEO & President Arizona Bank & TrustSpirit’s BIRTHDAY PARTY
Ask anyone in our organization about their favorite event of the year and the answer always is, ‘Spirit’s Birthday!’ The experience delivered by Fiesta Bowl Charities for our kids is second to none – it sets the bar for impact-driven, FUN programming for our Clubs. I can’t wait to see what they pull off next year... and neither can our Club kids.
Our very own mascot Spirit felt the love at his birthday party! This year, he was joined by 11 of his best mascot friends from all over the state, along with 180 children from Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley. Club members participated in a field day alongside Spirit and his friends. Boys & Girls Clubs received a monetary donation on behalf of DICK’S Sporting Goods.
ARIZONA MILK PRODUCERS
FIESTA BOWL
YouthClinicFootball
Fiesta Bowl partnered with Arizona Milk Producers to host our annual Youth Football Clinic at the Salvation Army Kroc Center. Over 100 kids were taught the fundamentals of football through non-contact drills that taught speed, throwing, kicking and sportsmanship. Participants also learned valuable life lessons from NFL Alumni Luis Zendejas and Marcel Shipp.
Arizona Milk Producers is dedicated to supporting our community through youth nutrition and education. This camp provides an opportunity for the kids to learn about more than football; camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the importance of healthy fuel for their activities. From farm to family we are excited to support Arizona’s future.
NICOLE CLEMENTS
Promotions & Agriculture Affairs Manager, Arizona Milk Producers
Par 3 Challenge
BY CHAPMAN AUTOMOTIVE
The PNC Fiesta Bowl Par 3 Challenge presented by Chapman Automotive is an annual three-day scramble-style tournament unlike any other. Played at the breathtaking Short Course at Mountain Shadows, it is one of the biggest fundraisers of the year with all proceeds supporting Fiesta Bowl Charities. Foursomes compete for closest-to-the-pin and hole-in-one prizes on every hole, including cash, cars and experiences. After every round, four golfers earn a chance to attempt a holein-one shot for $1 million.
PRESENTED
The Media Shootout paired seven media personalities with nonprofits for a closest-tothe-pin competition. Participating nonprofits were in attendance to cheer on their golfer: Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona, notMYkid, Military Assistance Mission, The Be Kind People Project, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale, Read Better Be Better and Hope Kids. Scott Pasmore from Arizona’s Family 3TV had the winning shot for the fourth time, getting $2,000 awarded for notMYkid.
As a national bank, PNC strategically invests in organizations that benefit our local community, such as our collaboration with Fiesta Bowl Charities. This year, our ongoing sponsorship of the Par 3 Challenge, support of a state-of-the-art youth sports complex in Fort Mohave and published children’s book in collaboration with Southwest Human Development gave us the opportunity to actively engage our employees and make a lasting difference in our community. Fiesta Bowl Charities’ work aligns with our company and employee values, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration well into the future.
CATHLEEN WALKER
PNC Regional President for Phoenix and Northern Arizona
SharingSEASON OF
Fiesta Bowl Charities brought joy to 27 foster children from A New Leaf. Foster families gathered for a Thanksgiving meal provided by STK and spent time doing arts and crafts for an unforgettable evening.
We really enjoyed ourselves at the Fiesta Bowl event. The children had a blast and it was great to connect with other foster families. It was organized nicely.
KAREN N. A New Leaf
As a brand, contributing in each community that we belong, making those small steps we believe we can create massive impact. Not only for those directly impacted by our contribution but we hope it inspires those around us to be active members in the local community in any way they can. For us, it is food how we can connect in even the smallest of ways during a special time like the holidays.
SABRINA CHICHELLI Regional Event Sales Manager STKPALO VERDE FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES
Wishes for Teachers
In its seventh year, the Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers program granted classroom wishes to 400 K-12 public and charter school teachers across the state of Arizona.
Each teacher received $2,500 for a total of $1 Million to purchase resources and materials that made their classroom wishes come true.
When I applied to Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers, I had no idea what was in store for our selfcontained classroom. This began as a fun opportunity for special needs students to build STEM models in the library. In no time, it evolved into a dynamic project with tremendous social, developmental, and academic impact. With this grant, we are able to teach critical thinking, persistence, independence, leadership, collaboration and cooperation. This kind of learning is pure magic. Thank you!
• 211,952 students impacted
• 72 different cities and towns
• 321 schools selected
• 95 school districts and 71 charter schools represented
• 135 colleges & universities represented from teacher alma maters
• 5,350 combined total year teaching
Investing in those who educate our future leaders is paramount to Palo Verde and it’s seven owners. We’re humbled to be part of a program that puts resources in the hands of those who work so hard day in and day out in Arizona’s classrooms. The innovative way our teachers connect with students is remarkable and Wishes for Teachers recognizes and embodies that connection.
KORY RAFTERY Manager Palo Verde External AffairsResource Center Specialist at Freemont Junior High in Mesa
PALO VERDE FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES WISHES FOR TEACHERS
Draft Day
PRESENTED BY SRP
Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers recipients were surprised with phone calls, video calls and classroom visits by partners, community champions, local celebrities, and board members during Draft Day presented by SRP to share with them the exciting news that their wishes had been granted.
The whole Wishes for Teachers experience has been like a dream come true. It is the source and support to be able to buy so many classroom resources for my students, proudly walk in the Fiesta Bowl Parade and receive the honor of on-field recognition during the Guaranteed Rate and Vrbo Fiesta Bowl. This whole journey has been the best experience in my 16 years of teaching.
REEMA SHARMA Math Teacher Central High School in PhoenixProviding teachers with the tools and resources they need benefits Arizona’s children. Partnering with the Fiesta Bowl on the Wishes for Teachers campaign is one of the many ways that SRP supports teachers. Our future workforce relies on the support that we provide to educators and nonprofit organizations today.
ANDREA MORENO Manager of Community Outreach SRPFIESTA BOWL CHARITIES
Operation Santa
Fiesta Bowl Charities, in partnership with Dick’s Sporting Goods and Fighter Country Foundation, hosted 40 children from Luke Air Force Base for a holiday shopping spree. Children whose parents are deployed or are from a single-parent household were given a $300 gift card for Dick’s Sporting Goods to shop with a Fiesta Bowl volunteer to make the holidays a little brighter.
This is by far one of our favorite events every year. We are so grateful for all the brave men and women of our military and all that they and their families sacrifice for our freedom. To play a small part in making their holiday season memorable is such a huge honor for Dick’s Sporting Goods. We appreciate the wonderful partnership we have formed with Fiesta Bowl Charities and Fighter Country over the years to help make this event possible.
RYAN POLOSKY
Dick’s Sporting Goods Community Marketing Manager
Fighter Country Foundation is so proud and honored to partner with Fiesta Bowl Charities, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Rudy’s BBQ as we provide this opportunity at Luke AFB for the amazing families that have endured deployment during the holidays. The smiles on the faces of these amazing families says it all. We can’t thank Fiesta Bowl Charities enough to assist us in supporting our uniquely important mission of supporting the Men, Women and Families of Luke Air Force Base - the World’s Largest Fighter Wing.
RON SITES
President & Executive Director Fighter Country Foundation
PLAYOFF FOUNDATION
EXTRA YARD FOR TEACHERS
Big Day COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Fiesta Bowl Charities participated in the College Football Playoff Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers “Big Day” and honored Mesa’s Westwood High School teacher Susan Sullivan. Ms. Sullivan was awarded a $1,000 DonorsChoose gift card to support her classroom and help purchase more books and resources.
The recognition was an amazing and unexpected surprise, my students enjoyed celebrating CFP Extra Yard for Teachers Big Day and benefited from the contribution. The donation allowed me to provide flexible seating that students enjoy and helps them focus.
NACDA COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Ohio State
The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and the Fiesta Bowl presented the annual Community Service Award to a deserving collegiate athletics department.
Ohio State received the 2022 award for its Buckeyes Care and LiFE Sports initiatives.
Student-athletes assisted 45 organizations in activities ranging from literacy programs to food banks. Through LiFE Sports, Ohio State continued with the National Youth Sports Program after funding was lost.
Airiana Smith NACDA MCLENDON SCHOLARSHIP
Through the support of the Fiesta Bowl’s commitment, a McLendon Foundation Minority Postgraduate Scholarship is awarded each year to a student associated with an Arizona-based four-year institution. This years’ recipient, Airiana Smith, received a $10,000 grant to pursue a master’s degree in sports law and business from The Allan “Bud” Selig Sports Law and Business program at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University.
Sanctioned Events
STATE YOUTH OF THE YEAR
The Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year program provides the highest honor any member can receive. This program offers these promising Club members an opportunity to hone their leadership skills, make valuable connections and gain access to more than $500,000 in scholarship funds. The Arizona State Youth of the Year winner competes with champions from other states for the regional title. Baily M. was named Arizona State Youth of the Year and Evie C. was named Military State Youth of the Year.
FCA BREAKFAST
During the 48th Annual Arizona Fellowship of Christian Athletes Fiesta Bowl Breakfast, attendees listened to inspiring messages from Vrbo Fiesta Bowl teams TCU Horned Frogs and Michigan Wolverines athletes and coaches.
Kindness Arizona
For the third consecutive year, Fiesta Bowl Kindness Arizona returned to make six stops across three days to spread kindness around the Valley of the Sun.
Fiesta Bowl staff and volunteers helped clean up a park, renovated a space for teachers, provided care packages and grocery cards for pediatric cancer patients, cleaned up a farm animals sanctuary, unveiled Fiesta Bowl Field at O’Neil Park, and assisted in providing the necessary resources for emergency relief.
Diversity, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
SummitPATH TO THE
The annual Fiesta Bowl Spring Summit again hosted Path to the Summit, created in 2021 to promote and assist college athletics leaders and coaches from underrepresented groups in their career journeys. This event featured assistant football coaches and athletic administrators interacting with each other, participating in panels with industry leaders, learning career development advice and meeting with search firms. This experience provided attendees the opportunity to take part in networking, Q&A sessions and a backpack stuffing community service project.
Path to Summit is and will continue to be extremely impactful for minorities and I am really grateful for your leadership to have this. The panelists were extraordinary and gave great insight to the climate of our industry. The organization, care and hospitality were unmatched.
Associate Head Coach Women’s Tennis Boise State University
PRESENTED BY
I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in the second annual Path to the Summit event. It was a wonderful experience. The discussion panels were very informative and the topics were extremely relevant. The event itinerary allowed for balance between enjoying the resort, leadership development, social activities and networking.
CHARLES SMALL Senior Associate Athletics Director Iowa State UniversityDreamProgram
Fiesta Bowl partnered with the DREAM program to host four hard-working students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for a Fiesta Bowl experience like no other. These students traveled to Arizona to learn from and work alongside Fiesta Bowl executives in the planning and execution of the Bowl Season games.
The DREAM Program, established by Position Sports, strives to provide mentorship and opportunities to HBCU students insterested in a career path in sports.
It is an absolute pleasure to partner with organizations such as the Fiesta Bowl, who pour so much into the community. Our foundation is focused on providing opportunities for underrepresented groups within the sports industry, and the Fiesta Bowl has championed our efforts and stands by its mission of enhancing organizations that contribute to community impact. They prove they are more than just a game.
DR. MARK CLIFFORD Board Chairman Co-Executive Director DREAM FoundationWorking with the Fiesta Bowl was an amazing opportunity that provided valuable hands-on experience and prepared me to confidently start my career. The skills, ideas and professionalism I am now armed with is, in part, thanks to the Fiesta Bowl.
DARRY’L WHITE
LeMonye Owen College, Memphis, TN
The Fiesta Bowl staff really showed emphasis on how much bigger than just a football game it is. Having the ability to travel and work for the Fiesta Bowl was an experience I will carry on for the rest of my life.
JEFF PHILLIPPE-AUGUSTE
Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, FL
Empowering Diversity Scholarship
The annual Empowering Diversity Scholarship presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Fiesta Bowl awarded $86,000 in scholarships to 20 Arizona minority residents to pursue their GED or attend an Arizona postsecondary institution. The Empowering Diversity scholarship supports Fiesta Bowl’s commitment to educational achievement, as well as diversity, equity and inclusion.
It has always been a priority of ours to create opportunities that embrace diversity, equity and inclusion. This Empowering Diversity Scholarship helps Arizona students further their potential and reach their academic goals.
PAM KEHALY President & CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona PRESENTED BY BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF ARIZONA AND FIESTA BOWLWEEKGame
Vrbo FIESTA BOWL
Parade
PRESENTED BY LERNER & ROWE
An Arizona staple since 1972, the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner and Rowe returned to Downtown Phoenix for its 50th anniversary in December. The theme “Legends Made Here” celebrated local legends, led by longtime Phoenix Suns and Hall of Fame announcer Al McCoy as Grand Marshal.
Special guests included former Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett, Olympic medalist Jagger Eaton and Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor member Dan Majerle. Giant balloons, colorful floats, equestrian units, specialty and charity groups, local performers and much more marched down the two-mile route. The live, commercial-free television broadcast on Arizona’s Family 3TV was the most-watched local show of the day in Phoenix, and simulcast on KOLD in Tucson.
As the presenting sponsor of the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade, we were thrilled to take an active role in this 50-year legacy that was built by citizens from the state of Arizona. And since Lerner and Rowe is more than a law firm, our successes and community outreach contributions are also made possible by members of the community. Our parallel efforts to give back are just one of the many reasons we love our continued partnership with Fiesta Bowl Charities.
KEVIN ROWE, Esq. Founder/Partner Lerner & RowePlayerOutreach
Team outreach events are an opportunity to engage student-athletes participating at our bowl games with the Arizona community.
OKLAHOMA STATE PLAYER OUTREACH
Oklahoma State student-athletes were paired with 30 children from Muscular Dystrophy Association for a day of fun at Main Event Tempe. They enjoyed a morning of bowling, arcade games and laser tag around the holidays.
The impact the Guaranteed Rate Bowl player outreach event has on the families MDA serves in the community is significant and an event families look forward to every year. To watch the bonds and friendships develop in the morning they spend together is inspiring. The student-athletes care and that is evident in their interaction with our kids. We are thankful Fiesta Bowl Charities’ generosity and the work they do to bridge college football with giving back to the community.
SARAH LEVIN National Vice President Consumer Services Partnerships Muscular Dystrophy AssociationPlayer Outreach
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN
Student-athletes from University of Wisconsin assisted in serving a Christmas meal, greeting guests, playing games and spreading holiday cheer in partnership with The Salvation Army.
We are grateful that Fiesta Bowl Charities puts its trust in The Salvation Army’s mission, and we and the guests of our annual Christmas dinner look forward each year to seeing the student-athletes of the Guaranteed Rate Bowl. These young men greet our guests, serve meals, play games with kids, talk with guests and even paint people’s nails! Their smiles and genial nature show our guests that they are valued as human beings.
LT. COLONEL IVAN WILD
Southwest Divisional Commander The Salvation Army
Vrbo FIESTA BOWL MICHIGAN AND TCU TEAM OUTREACH
Sleep in Heavenly Peace Bed Build
PRESENTEDStudent-athletes from Texas Christian University and University of Michigan came together to support Sleep in Heavenly Peace’s mission that no child sleeps on the floor. Over the course of two days, the teams combined to build 50 beds for families in need.
Fiesta Bowl Charities provided an unforgettable partnership experience that allowed Sleep in Heavenly Peace to share its mission with new audiences across the country. We cherish the ability we were given to bring our own film crew and capture players from the TCU and Michigan football programs interacting with kids from the local community who would receive the very beds they built together. The exposure from this partnership will have a lasting impact on SHP and more importantly, the families we honored will remember it forever.
LUKE MICKELSON Executive Director Sleep in Heavenly PeaceBowlGUARANTEED RATE
With a new head coach on the sidelines, Wisconsin ended its season in a customary Badgers football way – with a bowl game victory. After racing out to a 17-7 halftime lead and withstanding an Oklahoma State fourth quarter comeback, the Badgers held on for a 24-17 victory in the 2022 Guaranteed Rate Bowl in Downtown Phoenix.
After Wisconsin took the initial advantage with a 49-yard field goal by Nate Van Zelst to cap the Badgers’ opening possession, Oklahoma State claimed its only lead of the game on an 84-yard pitch and catch from Garret Rangel to Stephon Johnson Jr.
Wisconsin reeled off 21 unanswered points that kept the Pokes off the scoreboard until early in the fourth quarter. Oklahoma State closed within 24-17 with 5:02 remaining but couldn’t get any closer.
Offensively, the Badgers relied on a punishing ground game led by Braelon Allen and Chez Mellusi. Allen, the Offensive Player of the Game, rushed for 116 yards on 22 carries and a score, while Mellusi added 77 yards and a touchdown. In total, Wisconsin rushed for 258 yards, nearly matching Oklahoma State’s entire offensive output (281). Jordan Turner, the Defensive Player of the Game, led the Badgers with eight tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss and one quarterback hurry.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF SEMIFINAL AT THE Vrbo
Fiesta Bowl
The first-ever meeting between No. 3 TCU and No. 2 Michigan was an instant classic. It was a showdown between the underdog and the blue blood, between a first-year head coach and an eight-year program veteran. A freshly broken three-year bowl drought versus back-to-back conference champions and CFP appearances.
In a back-and-forth battle in front of a sellout crowd of 71,723, the Horned Frogs and Wolverines combined for a Fiesta Bowl record 96 points, including a 69-point second half. At the end of it all, TCU posted a 51-45 victory to advance to the national championship and record arguably the biggest win in school history.
Two interception returns for touchdowns served as a catalyst, including a Dee Winters score off an interception. The Wolverines trailed, 34-16, at that point but Michigan came back to close within 41-38.
Facing a 3rd and 7 from his own 24-yard line, TCU QB
Max Duggan tossed a screen to Quentin Johnston who scampered 76 yards for a touchdown that returned the momentum back to the Horned Frogs.
Johnston earned Offensive Player of the Game honors, with six receptions for 163 yards and one touchdown. The defensive honor went to Winters, who notched seven tackles – including three tackles for loss – one PBU, and the interception return.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
AAEC South Mountain
Agua Fria High School
Alta E. Butler Elementary
Altadena Middle School
American Leadership Academy -
Gilbert North
American Leadership Academy -
Ironwood
American Leadership Academy -
Sierra Vista
American Leadership Academy -
Signal Butte
AmeriSchools Academy
Amphitheater High School
Apache Junction High School
Arete Preparatory Academy
Arrowhead Elementary School
Arthur M. Hamilton Elementary
Ash Creek Elementary
Ashland Ranch Elementary
ASU Preparatory Academy -
Phoenix Elementary
Augusta Ranch Elementary
Auxier Elementary
BASIS Ahwatukee
BASIS Goodyear Primary
BASIS Peoria Primary
BASIS Scottsdale
BASIS Tucson North
Belen Soto Elementary School
Benjamin Franklin Charter School
Biltmore Preparatory Academy
Bioscience High School
Blue Ridge High School
Blue Ridge Junior High School
Bogle Junior High School
Boulder Creek Elementary
Bowie Elementary School
Bridges Elementary
Bright Beginnings Elementary School
Brinton Elementary
Buena High School
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Camelback High School
Camp Mohave Elementary
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Canyon Springs STEM Academy
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Carl Hayden High School
Carminati School
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Central High School
Cesar Chavez High School
Challenge Charter School
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Chandler Traditional Academy
Charles W. Harris Elementary School
Cholla Elementary School
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Clarendon Elementary School
Clarkdale-Jerome School
Clawson Elementary School
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Desert Sage Elementary School
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Desert Star School
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Desert Thunder School
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Desert View Elementary School
PALO VERDE FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES
Wishes for Teachers Schools
Desert View High School
Desert Vista High School
Desert Willow Elementary School
Desert Wind Middle School
Diamond Canyon Elementary
Diamondback Elementary
Doolen Middle School
Dos Rios Elementary School
Dove Mountain CSTEM K-8
Dunbar Elementary School
Dysart High School
East Valley Institute of Technology
Ed Pastor Elementary School
Edison Elementary School
EDUPRIZE - Gilbert
EDUPRIZE - Queen Creek
EDUPRIZE - San Tan Valley
El Mirage Elementary
Emerson Elementary
Empower College Prep
Encanto Elementary
Esmond Station K-8 School
Espiritu NFL YET
Falcon Hill Elementary
Field Elementary School
Flowing Wells High School
Flowing Wells Junior High School
Fountain Hills Middle School
Fowler Elementary School
Franklin at Brimhall Elementary
Fremont Junior High School
Frye Elementary School
Fulton Elementary School
G. Frank Davidson Elementary School
Gale Elementary School
Genesis Academy School
Gila Bend Elementary School
Gilbert Elementary School
Glenview College Preparatory High School
Gowan Science Academy
Greenbrier Elementary
Greenfield Elementary School
Griffith Elementary School
Guerrero Elementary School
Hale Elementary School
Harmon Elementary School
Harris Elementary
Hearn Academy
Henry Elementary School
Heritage Academy Gateway
Heritage Academy Laveen
Heritage Academy Mesa
Heritage Middle School
Hermosa Vista Elementary
Hidden Hills Elementary School
High Desert Middle School
Highland High School
Highland Junior High School
Highland Lakes School
Higley High School
Higley Traditional Academy
Hillcrest Middle School
Hope High School Online
Hopi Elementary School
Imagine Prep Surprise
Imagine Schools - Buckeye
Imagine Schools - Camelback
Imagine Schools - East Mesa
Indian Bend Elementary School
Indian Oasis Elementary
Inspiration Mountain School
IntelliSchool Glendale
IntelliSchool Paradise Valley
Ironwood Elementary School
James W. Rice Elementary School
Jefferson Elementary School
John B. Wright Elementary School
John F. Kennedy Elementary
John S. McCain III Elementary School
Kerr Elementary School
Kings Ridge Preparatory Academy
Knoles Elementary School
Kofa High School
Kyrene de los Niños Elementary School
COMMUNITY IMPACT
PALO VERDE FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES
Wishes for Teachers Schools
Kyrene del Norte Elementary School
Kyrene Monte Vista
La Paloma Academy
Lake Havasu High School
Las Sendas Elementary
Lattie Coor
Laveen Elementary School
Lawrence 3-8 School
Le Pera Elementary
Lee Williams High School
Legacy Traditional School - Maricopa
Legacy Traditional School - Mesa
Legacy Traditional School - Peoria
Legacy Traditional School -
Queen Creek
Legacy Traditional School -
West Surprise
Leman Academy of Excellence
Liberty Arts Academy
Liberty Elementary School
Litchfield Elementary School District
Longview Elementary School
Los Niños Elementary School
Lowell Elementary School
MacArthur Elementary School
Madison Meadows Middle School
Madrid Neighborhood School
Many Farms Public School
Manzanita Elementary School
Marcos de Niza High School
Marionneaux Elementary School
Maryvale High School
Mayer Elementary School
Mendoza Elementary School
Mercury Mine Elementary
Mesa Virtual Campus
Mesquite Junior High School
Metro Tech High School
Miami Junior-Senior High School
Mica Mountain High School
Michael Anderson Elementary
Miles Exploratory Learning Center
Mission Heights Preparatory High School
Mohave Accelerated Elementary School
Mohave Valley Junior High School
Monument Valley High School
Mount Graham High School
Mountain Sky Junior High School
Mountain View High School
Mountain View Preparatory
Mountain View School
Nadaburg Elementary
Nash Elementary School
Neely Traditional Academy
Nevitt Elementary School
New River Elementary School
Nikolaus Homestead Elementary School
Orange Grove Elementary
Page High School
Painted Rock Academy
Palo Verde Elementary School
Palo Verde Middle School
Pan American Charter School
Paragon Science Academy
Park Elementary School
Park Meadows School
Parkridge Elementary
Payson Elementary School
Percy L. Julian School
Phoenix Day School for the Deaf
Picacho School
Pima County JTED at Flowing Wells
Pinnacle High School
Pioneer Elementary
Poston Butte High School
Pueblo del Sol Elementary
Pueblo del Sol Middle School
Pueblo High School
Quail Run Elementary
Rainbow Valley School
Ray Borane Middle School
Red Mountain High School
Rhodes Junior High
Ridgeline Academy
Rio Vista Elementary School
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Riverview Elementary School
Roadrunner Elementary School
Robert Richardson Elementary School
Round Valley Elementary School
Round Valley Middle School
Ruth Fisher Middle School
Ruth Powell Elementary School
Safford High School
Sahuaro Elementary School
Salida del Sol Elementary School
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Sequoia Pathfinder Academy at Eastmark
Sequoia Pathfinder Academy at Verrado West
Sequoya Elementary
Shadow Ridge High School
Shaw Butte Elementary School
Show Low Junior High School
Shumway Leadership Academy
Silver Valley Elementary
Sirrine Elementary
Sky View Elementary
Skyline High School
Sonoran Science Academy - East
Sonoran Science Academy - Peoria
Sonoran Science Academy - Phoenix
Southwest Junior High School
St. David Elementary School
St. David High School
Stapley Junior High
Stevenson Elementary
Summit High School
Sunnyside High School
Sunnyside JTED Star
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Sunrise Middle School
Sunrise Mountain High School
Sunset Elementary School
Sunset Heights Elementary
Sunset Hills Elementary
Sycamore Elementary School
Tavan Elementary School
Tempe High School
The Odyssey Institute for Advanced and International Studies
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Tully Elementary
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Vail Academy and High School
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West Elementary
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Wigwam Creek Middle School
Wilson Elementary
Wilson K-8 School
Young Scholar’s Academy