2024-2025 Bruin Club Membership Guide

Page 1

SCOTT CORLEY

My Fellow Bruins,

As we welcome the long, warm days of summer, we simultaneously close the books on another year of academic and competitive success at Belmont. We truly have so much to be proud of as Bruins.

However, it would be disingenuous of me to say this hasn’t been a turbulent and trying time to work and serve in college athletics. Between the transfer portal becoming a focal point of our daily lives, to monitoring the emergence and continued prevalence of name, image, and likeness in college athletics, there has never been a more anxietyinducing time in our industry.

Looking outward upon the horizon of college athletics, it’s easy to get fixated on the dark, ominous storm clouds. So instead, I choose to look inward. It’s when look inward, to the core of what defines Belmont, that I am comforted and renewed with hope.

At Belmont, we pride ourselves on our core values. At our core, we aim to do three things; create culture, cultivate character, and chase championships.

This mentality has long defined us and will continue to do so, despite whatever turbulent times we must navigate. As the old saying goes, “a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.”

While the portal and NIL have presented us with challenges that we didn’t ask for, the reality is that we must now live in this world and embrace our reality. It’s a direct challenge to the model we’ve had here for nearly a half century — one that embodies teamwork, doing things the right way, academic excellence and sportsmanship.

I’m here to tell you that those attributes will never leave our genetic makeup. And while things can’t be done exactly the same as before, am confident we can and will operate in a way that still reflects our core values and in a way that warrants your continued support and makes you proud to be a Bruin.

A MESSAGE FROM BELMONT UNIVERSITY'S ATHLETICS DIRECTOR
TABLE OF CONTENTS 01 Message from the Athletic Director 03 2024/25 Bruin Club Calendar 04 Vince Gill Room 06 2024-25 Benefits Chart 07 Platinum Bruins Trip 08 Breaking Down the Bruin Club 09 Ways to Support Belmont Athletics 10 Athletic Excellence Initiative 12 2023-24 Bruin Club Giving 14 By the Numbers 14 ACADEMIC SUCCESS 17 ATHLETIC SUCCESS 18 Betty Wiseman Mission Fund 20 Bruins in the Community 21 SHOP WITH THE BRUINS 22 TEAM IMPACT 23 ATHLETE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM 24 Belmont Head Coaches 26 New Bruins in the Den 28 Basketball Ticket Information 30 Curbside Seats 32 Bruin Club Staff 34 Frequently Asked Questions 35 Athletic Sponsorship
CHASING CHAMPIONSHIPS.
CREATING CULTURE. CULTIVATING CHARACTER.

WHAT IS THE BRUIN CLUB?

The Bruin Club is the official annual fundraising organization for Belmont Athletics, and it supports the student-athletes and coaches who comprise Belmont’s 17 NCAA Division I teams. Contributions to

the Bruin Club help increase athletic scholarships and provide program enhancements critical to the growing demands of competition at a higher level. Strong support of the Bruin Club helps recruit, educate and train the highest caliber of student-athletes. Belmont student-athletes are known for their service, exemplary behavior, compassion, academic achievement and competitive prowess on and off the playing field.

BRUIN CLUB MEMBERS

Blue, Red, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum level Bruin Club members are offered seating benefits (with the option to purchase season tickets in

the Bruin Club sections). By law as of 1/1/2018, gifts that receive seating benefits are NOT tax deductible. However, if you elect to decline

BRUIN CLUB REMINDERS

PREGAME & HALFTIME ACCESS TO THE VINCE GILL ROOM!

• Available to donors giving $1,500+ annually to Belmont Athletics with Bruin Basketball season tickets

• Doors open one hour before all home men’s and women’s games with a pregame meal service

• Game preview with Belmont Men’s Basketball Head Coach Casey Alexander prior to men’s games and Belmont Women’s Basketball Head Coach Bart Brooks prior to women’s games

• Number of lanyards distributed equal to number of season tickets purchased in the Bruin Club Section

• Halftime access available to donors giving $1,500+ to Belmont Athletics for all men’s and women’s home basketball games includes popcorn, dessert and drinks

PREMIUM LUXURY COURTSIDE SEATS

• 44 total seats available

• $1,000 per seat, plus $199 per season ticket (must be an even number of tickets)

• Complimentary water bottles and popcorn service for all home basketball games

• Currently sold out — contact russell.grimm@belmont.edu to be added to waitlist

BRUIN CLUB DONATION WINDOW

• June 1–October 31

• Allows Belmont student-athletes to more fully benefit from your annual gift

• Donors with Bruin Club seating must make appropriate gift prior to purchase of basketball season tickets

seating benefits, your gift may be 100% tax deductible. As with any tax inquiry, you should consult with your tax advisor.

SCAN TO DONATE

• Bruin Club benefits not recognized until gift is made

PLATINUM BRUIN LEVEL

• $10,000+ annually to Belmont Athletics

• Exclusive Belmont Athletics donor travel opportunity

• Exclusive Belmont Basketball practice viewing opportunity

ANNUAL BRUIN CLUB GOLF CLASSIC

• September 12, 2024 at 8:00

• Gaylord Springs Golf Links

• $1,000/foursome, sponsorships available

• Silent auction and post-tournament reception

RED BRUINS ($1,500 ANNUALLY AND ABOVE) = RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE BRUIN CLUB GIFT

CALENDAR JUNE 1 Fiscal Year Begins Bruin Club Membership Guide & Renewal Mailing JUNE — NOV. Season Ticket & Bruin Club Annual Gift Renewal Window Season tickets in Bruin Club seating will not be eligible for renewal until Bruin Club gift is received SEPTEMBER 12 Bruin Club Golf Classic OCTOBER Distribution of Season Tickets, Parking Passes & Vince Gill Room Hospitality Passes NOV. — DEC. Platinum Bruin Trip DECEMBER Year-End Donation Deadline MARCH MVC Tournament Ticket Distribution MAY Athletic Director’s Dinner (Gold Bruin: $5,000 annually & above) MAY 31 End of Bruin Club Fiscal Year 2024 2025 2024/ 2025 BRUIN
2 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE

VINCE GILL ROOM

ACCESS LEVEL TO INCREASE TO $1,500 ANNUALY

Last basketball season, the Vince Gill Room enjoyed a tremendous renovation and expansion, nearly doubling the space in size and offering a much-needed facelift. The investment has helped create an even more enjoyable gameday experience for Bruin Club members.

Access to the Vince Gill Room will now begin at $1,500 annually

Thanks to the growth in membership of the Bruin Club over the last several years, the rising cost of food and food service, and the fact that as members of the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Belmont has essentially doubled the number of home games where Vince Gill Room meals are offered, moving forward the annual donation requirement to enter the Vince Gill Room will now be $1,500 annually to Belmont Athletics (gifts to the Betty Wiseman Mission Fund do not accrue Bruin Club benefits).

equal to the number of Belmont Basketball season tickets per member account.

While we understand this may cause some discomfort with Bruin Club members, we feel it is necessary to continue and improve upon the Vince Gill Room experience. In accord with the increased level of access to the Vince Gill Room, we will simultaneously introduce a new level on our Bruin Club Benefits Chart: Bronze Bruin ($1,500 and above to Belmont Athletics annually). In accord with the Bruin Club benefits chart, the number of Vince Gill Room passes distributed will be

Lastly, if you are a Red Bruin ($1,000 and above to Belmont Athletics annually) and have seating (up to four seats) in the Bruin Club sections (115/116), you will not be required to become a Bronze Bruin. You may retain your Bruin Club seats at the same level (Red Bruin) but will not receive Vince Gill Room access.

Access to the Vince Gill Room for men’s and women’s basketball games begins at the $1,500 (Bronze Bruin) giving level. A donation of $1,500 or more will allow you to enter before all men’s and women’s basketball games for a full meal and grab concession-like snacks at halftime.

RUSSELL

Executive Director of the Bruin Club russell.grimm@belmont.edu

615 560 5668

COLLIN SONDERMAN

Associate Director of Athletic Development collin.sonderman@belmont.edu 615 560 5051

4 | 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE
INTERESTED PARTIES MAY CONTACT:
GRIMM

2024-25 BRUIN CLUB BENEFITS CHART

PLATINUM BRUINS TRIP

Last year, Belmont Athletics partook in another “Platinum Bruins” trip with an incredible visit to Tucson, as the Belmont faithful traveled to watch the Bruins take on the Arizona Wildcats.

We are excited to continue this tradition as we are again offering this experience for donors at the $10,000 annual level and above to travel with our men’s basketball program to an upcoming away game this season.

Trips include travel with the team; lodging at the team hotel; an option to attend practice/shootaround sessions; film breakdown; and a private dinner with the Belmont men’s basketball team, coaches, and athletics administration.

Previous destinations and opponents have included TCU in Fort Worth, UCLA in Los Angeles, Boston College in Boston, LSU in Baton Rouge, and UIC in Chicago.

If it is a financial consideration for you, we hope that you will consider becoming a Platinum Bruin to join us for another incredible trip, interacting with some of Belmont’s finest student-athletes, coaches, and administration.

6 | 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 7
Bruin Insider E-Newsletter Thank You Letter from a Belmont Student-Athlete Belmont Promo Item 20% Off Belmont Apparel at the Bruin Shop Invitation to Belmont Basketball Tip-Off Reception Opportunity to Purchase Away Game Tickets Opportunity to Purchase MVC Basketball Tournament Tickets Opportunity to Purchase NCAA Tournament Tickets (max) 10 8 6 6 6 4 4 Opportunity to Purchase Basketball Season Tickets in Bruin Club Section (max) 10 8 6 4 4 2 Pregame and Halftime Hospitality Privileges in the Vince Gill Room (number of passes distributed equal to number of season tickets in Bruin Club Section purchased) 10 8 6 4 Exclusive Bruin Club Gift Reserved Parking in Curb Event Center Garage for Home Men's Basketball Games Personal Thank You Video from a Belmont Student-Athlete Exclusive Invitation to Athletic Director's Dinner (Invitation for two) Exclusive Belmont Athletics Travel Opportunity (Invitation for two) PLATINUM BRUIN GOLD BRUIN BRONZE BRUIN RED BRUIN BLUE BRUIN WHITE BRUIN SILVER BRUIN ($10,000 & ABOVE) ($5,000 –$9,999) ($1,500 –$2,499) ($1,000 –$1,499) ($500 –$999) ($100 –$499) ($2,500 –$4,999)

BREAKING DOWN THE BRUIN CLUB

BRUIN CLUB (ANNUAL GIVING)

• 100% of all gifts at the Athletic Director’s discretion

WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT BELMONT ATHLETICS

• Cash/check

• Online at BelmontBruinClub.com

• Transfer of securities

• Bequest or beneficiary designation

• Gifts of tangible property such as real estate

• Gifts-in-kind

• Belmont Employee Payroll Deduction

• Major Gifts

GIVING PRIORITIES

In addition to providing annual giving support through the Bruin Club, donors may opt to give to a specific sport or endow their own scholarship to benefit a specific team. All gifts to these areas accrue Bruin Club benefits. Donors may choose to make a gift to any of the following teams:

ENDOWED ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS

The largest expense any athletic department incurs is the cost of scholarships for deserving student-athletes. Belmont Athletics supports 135 scholarships annually. Our long-term goal is to endow as much of this cost as possible. The minimum gift to establish a named endowment is $50,000, payable over one to five years. Visit BelmontBruinClub.com for more information.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HOW TO GIVE, PLEASE CONTACT:

RUSSELL GRIMM

Executive Director of the Bruin Club russell.grimm@belmont.edu

615 560 5668

COLLIN SONDERMAN

Associate Director of Athletic Development collin.sonderman@belmont.edu

615.560.5051

2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE 9 BETTY WISEMAN MISSION FUND • 100% student-athlete mission trip support • Gifts do not receive Bruin Club membership-level credit SPORT-SPECIFIC GIFTS
Gifts directly supporting a specific sport program • 100% sport-specific operational fund support
Gifts receive Bruin Club membership-level credit • Season tickets, parking, post-season ticket access MAJOR GIFTS
Athletic Excellence Initiative ($100,000 and up)
Athletic Scholarship Endowment ($50,000 and up)
Capital Project Naming Opportunities ($25,000 and up)
Pledges to Facilities
Planned Giving ($50,000 and up)
• Baseball • Men’s & Women’s Basketball • Cheerleading • Men’s & Women’s Golf • Men’s & Women’s Soccer • Softball • Men’s & Women’s Tennis • Men’s & Women’s Track & Field (Indoor and Outdoor) & Cross Country • Volleyball
Operational and facility maintenance support
Gifts receive Bruin Club membership-level credit
Season tickets, parking, post-season ticket access

ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE INITIATIVE

As Belmont enters its third year of competition in the Missouri Valley Conference, the importance of its “Athletic Excellence Initiative,” stands as vital to the future success of Belmont Athletics as ever.

The Athletic Excellence Initiative provides a blueprint responsible for elevating the department to the forefront of intercollegiate athletics. To date we have received over $7 million in commitments. More is needed as we strive to be the leading mid-major athletic program in the country, helping to provide our student-athletes a premier educational, spiritual and athletic experience while consistently competing at the highest national level.

The additional annual philanthropic support from the Athletic Excellence Initiative has and will continue to provide the necessary funding for Belmont Athletics to succeed and support our athletes as they chase their dreams as members of the Missouri Valley Conference.

We must increase our philanthropic aspirations in strategic areas that are critical components of athletic success and student development. As such, Belmont Athletics seeks highly motivated individuals to help take our athletic programs and student-athletes to unprecedented heights as we continue our grow upon our first year as members of the Missouri Valley Conference by supporting the exclusive “Athletic Excellence Initiative.” Commitments to the “Athletic Excellence Initiative” begin at $100,000 and may be paid over five years. Interested parties may contact:

10 | 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE
2024–25 UPDATE COLLIN SONDERMAN Associate Director of Athletic Development collin.sonderman@belmont.edu 615.560.5051 RUSSELL GRIMM Executive Director of the Bruin Club russell.grimm@belmont.edu 615 560 5668 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 11

2024 BRUIN CLUB

We are excited to announce a successful fiscal year where we raised $1,608,849. Belmont reports dollars raised (gifts and new pledges). This year, we set a record for Bruin Club giving by raising $611,317 to the Bruin Club, passing the

high water-mark set last year by more than 50%! The standard for excellence at Belmont continues to be elevated thanks in large part to individuals and families like yourself who go the extra mile to provide for Belmont’s student-athletes. We cannot

say THANK YOU loud or often enough Our goal is to eclipse the $2 million annual fundraising mark next year, with an ultimate aim to raise $5 million annually to Belmont Athletics by 2027, with more than 1,000 annual Bruin Club members.

$1,608,849 $611,317

2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 13
GIVING NUMBERS
FY24 DONORS BRUIN CLUB DONORS IN BRUIN CLUB GIVING
268
BELMONT ATHLETICS RAISED
614

ACADEMICS AT BELMONT

STUDENT-ATHLETE MAJORS BY COLLEGE

2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 15 3.58 CUMULATIVE 2023-24 DEPARTMENTAL GPA 53RD C ONSECUTIVE SEMESTER OF A DEPARTMENTAL 3.0+ GPA 3 INDIVIDUAL CONFERENCE ACADEMIC AWARD WINNERS Kaitlyn Vanderkolk , Women's Cross Country Brooke Garter, Women's Outdoor Track & Field Kaitlyn Vanderkolk Women's Indoor Track & Field OF STUDENT-ATHLETES ACHIEVED A 3.0+ TERM GPA 88% POSTED A TEAM GPA OF 3.5+ 13 TEAMS (23%) EARNED A PERFECT 4.0 GPA FOR THE SPRING 2024 SEMESTER 64 STUDENT-ATHLETES ACADEMIC ALL-DISTRICT AWARD RECIPIENTS 25 ACADEMIC ALL-CONFERENCE AWARD RECIPIENTS 29 OF STUDENT-ATHLETES EARNED DEAN'S LIST HONORS 67% 9TH C ONSECUTIVE SEMESTER OF A DEPARTMENTAL 3.5+ GPA O'MORE COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN WATKINS COLLEGE OF ART JACK C. MASSEY COLLEGE OF BUSINESS MIKE CURB COLLEGE OF ENTERTAINMENT & MUSIC BUSINESS COLLEGE OF EDUCATION COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS & SOCIAL SCIENCES COLLEGE OF MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS GORDAN E. INMAN COLLEGE OF NURSING COLLEGE OF PHARMACY & HEALTH SCIENCES COLLEGE OF SCIENCES & MATHEMATICS UNDECLARED 98% GRADUATION SUCCESS RATE 3% 3% 7% 2% 32% 1% 1% 8% 15% 13% 17%
BY
BY THE NUMBERS
THE NUMBERS
STUDENT-ATHLETE

THE NUMBERS

ALL-REGION RECIPIENTS

16 | 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE
Country
Soccer
CHAMPIONSHIPS
Kaitlyn Vanderkolk , Women's
Cross
Dylan Steely, Men’s
Maya Johnson, Softball
2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 4 4 5 5 5 1 1 3 3 9 8 7 10 11 58 18 17 17 13 21 4 BY STATE BY COUNTRY AUSTRALIA 1 COSTA RICA 1 ESTONIA 1 KOSOVO 1 SCOTLAND BRAZIL 2 CROATIA 1 GERMANY 2 NEW ZEALAND 1 SPAIN CANADA 5 ENGLAND 2 ITALY 1 PORTUGAL 1 SWEDEN ALABAMA 10 CONNECTICUT 2 KANSAS 4 MISSOURI 5 OREGON ARKANSAS 4 FLORIDA 18 KENTUCKY 11 NORTH CAROLINA 5 PENNSYLVANIA ARIZONA 3 GEORGIA 21 LOUISIANA 2 NEVADA 1 SOUTH CAROLINA CALIFORNIA 3 ILLINOIS 17 MICHIGAN 7 NEW YORK 1 SOUTH DAKOTA COLORADO 1 INDIANA 13 MINNESOTA 1 OHIO 17 TENNESSEE BY THE NUMBERS STUDENT-ATHLETE ATHLETIC RECOGNITION ALL-CONFERENCE RECIPIENTS 16 - ALL-CONFERENCE FIRST TEAM, 7 - ALL-CONFERENCE SECOND TEAM, 4 - ALL-CONFERENCE THIRD TEAM WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY INDIVIDUAL CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS Carter Cheeseman 5000 Meters (Men’s Indoor Track & Field) 5000 Meters (Men’s Outdoor Track & Field) 10000 Meters (Men’s Outdoor Track & Field) Kevin Vanderkolk 3000 Meter Steeplechase (Men’s Outdoor Track & Field) Kaitlyn Vanderkolk 5000 Meters (Women’s Outdoor Track & Field) 10000 Meters (Women’s Outdoor Track & Field) Rebekah Stucker Discus (Women’s Outdoor Track & Field), Shot Put (Women’s Outdoor Track & Field) Tyra Finkeldey Pole Vault (Women’s Outdoor Track & Field) Madelyn Quinn Javelin (Women’s Outdoor Track & Field) Alfred Wallin Men’s Tennis (Horizon League) Mariia Hlahola Women’s Tennis (MVC) Rebekah Stucker Women’s Outdoor Track & Field (MVC) CONFERENCE PLAYER YEAR OF THE 3 MVC INDIVIDUAL SPORTSMANSHIP AWARDS Sam Kirkpatrick Baseball Tessa Miller Women's Basketball Laura Shoopman Volleyball CONFERENCE FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR Jailyn Banks Women's Basketball Vesa Gjinaj Women’s Tennis Rachel Soukup Women’s Outdoor Track & Field
BY
STUDENT-ATHLETES BY STATE

BETTY WISEMAN

MISSION FUND

Thanks to the generous support of donors to the Betty Wiseman Mission Fund, hundreds of Belmont student-athletes, coaches, and athletic staff have been able to serve on 35 mission trips, in 15 countries, sharing God’s love all over the world!

The Betty Wiseman Mission Fund exists to allow our student-athletes to serve on these mission trips each year. These amazing trips make a lasting impact on our student-athletes, helping them to grow both personally and spiritually. We look forward to continuing to provide many more of these experiences going forward!

In June, Belmont Athletics will go back to Poland, the location of the first Belmont Athletics Mission Trip led by Betty Wiseman in 1995. The group will be back working with Proem Ministries in the central part of the country. They will attempt to show God’s love by helping with a sports camp for children who fled Ukraine during the war. It will be another transformational experience in a unique part of the world.

Over spring break, eight Belmont studentathletes and three athletic department staff members traveled to San José, Costa Rica, to serve on a Belmont Athletics Mission Trip. The group, led by Ryan Neises, Director of Student-Athlete Formation, consisted of members from various teams within Belmont Athletics. The group partnered with Young Life Costa Rica, a ministry that gives hope, joy, and belonging to teens through Jesus. Throughout the week, several projects were completed including building a concrete driveway, framing an apartment, and sports ministry in the city. The Bruins were impacted in incredible ways, and this trip was the start of a long-term partnership with the organization and its leaders.

BOSTON

UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY

BOSTON

BELMONT

UNIVERSITY

BOSTON

SHOP WITH THE BRUINS

On December 18, 2023, Belmont’s men’s and women’s basketball programs partnered with the Boys and Girls Club of Middle Tennessee to spread Christmas cheer to 30 local children, helping to provide them with a better Christmas. Belmont student-athletes joined their young friends BRUINS IN THE COMMUNITY

to pick out Christmas presents for themselves and family members as they shopped at the West Nashville Target. The event is an annual Belmont Athletics Christmas tradition made possible by the support of Gray Line Tennessee.

information below captures the total impact of Belmont student-athletes' community involvement in the greater Nashville community. IN THE COMMUNITY BRUINS
COMMUNITY
HOURS
26
The
7,518 $239,070
ORGANIZATIONS SERVED TOTAL
SERVED ECONOMIC IMPACT
2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 21
10 SCHOOLS: TOTAL HOURS SERVED
ALL D1 SCHOOLS)
TOP
(AMONG
COLLEGE
OF LOUISIANA
OF SOUTH ALABAMA
UNIVERSITY
BELMONT
OF NORTH DAKOTA
OF TEXAS RIO GRANDE VALLEY
UNIVERSITY JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY TULANE UNIVERSITY
MEN’S TEAMS: TOTAL HOURS SERVED
ALL D1 SCHOOLS)
OF SOUTH ALABAMA, MEN’S BASKETBALL
UNIVERSITY
TOWSON
TOP
(AMONG
UNIVERSITY
MEN’S HOCKEY
COLLEGE,
BASEBALL
UNIVERSITY,
OF
LOUISIANA, MEN’S GOLF
BELMONT TEAMS WHO FINISHED TOP10 IN THEIR SPORT IN HOURS SERVED (AMONG ALL D1 SCHOOLS) BASEBALL, 1ST SOFTBALL, 2ND MEN'S TRACK & XC, 2ND VOLLEYBALL, 5TH 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 3 4 5 4TH IN THE NATION! AMONG ALL D1
FOR TOTAL HOURS SERVED
COLLEGE, MEN’S GOLF
SCHOOLS

BRUINS IN THE COMMUNITY

BRUINS IN THE COMMUNITY

ATHLETE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM TEAM IMPACT

Belmont’s baseball, men's tennis, men's basketball and cross country/track & field programs have recently partnered with Team IMPACT, a group who matches children facing serious illnesses and disabilities with college sports teams to create a long-term and life-changing experience for everyone involved. Through the power of team, these children and Belmont's student-athletes accept, motivate, and inspire one another.

Team IMPACT is made up of dedicated individuals who are committed to changing the lives of children, families, studentathletes and teams across the country. Everyone at Team IMPACT plays a role in reaching their goals, fulfilling their mission, and getting all kids in the game.

Women’s golf, volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, and softball have all applied to be involved with Team IMPACT for next year!

The Athlete Membership Program (AMP) helps initiate and develop relationships between Belmont student-athletes and professionals from a wide array of industries in the Nashville area. These connections provide the studentathlete with guidance and direction in areas such as personal goals, career development, networking, and future employment opportunities. Additionally, AMP offers personal development that will assist student-athletes as they transition to life after Belmont.

The hope for AMP participants is that the connection between the mentor and mentee will grow and develop into a long-term professional relationship.

AMP is the brainchild of Belmont Athletics Director Scott Corley and was created in 2018. In the 2023–24 academic year, AMP’s sixth year of existence, 49 studentathletes from 15 sports participated in the program. This year’s group of mentors come from a number of career fields including accounting, entrepreneurship,

finance, healthcare, music business, public relations, sales, and sports. The group also boasts 25 Belmont alumni, including 18 former student-athletes. AMP is part of a larger studentathlete development program at Belmont. In addition to AMP, Belmont student-athletes are provided with education and training on financial literacy, brand building, mental health, academic integrity, and self-defense.

2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 23
VOLLEYBALL K ATELYNHARRISON
KE L SEY FENIXCAMERON
MEN’STENNIS
OLIVIAJORDAN
DANEVORSTER BASEBALL DAVEJARVIS CHEERLEADINGJESSIWOODY MEN’SGOLF DANIELDELUCA SOFTBALL L AURAMATTHEWS DIRECTOR OF CROSSCOUNTRY+ TRACK AN D F I DLE JEFFLANGDON
WOMEN’SBASKETBALL BARTBROOKS
WOMEN’SSOCCER
MEN’SBASKETBALLCASEYALEXANDER MEN’SSOCCERDAVIDCOSTA
JEFFCERO WOMEN’SGOLF
WOMEN’STENNIS

NEW BRUINS IN THE DEN

“I’m very excited to start leading this wellestablished program! Belmont cheer has had a great reputation for gameday excellence and traditions. Over the past two years, I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our athletes and appreciate the trust Belmont athletic leadership has given me in this new role. Go Bruins!”

JESSI WOODY

CHEERLEADING COACH

On August 21, 2023, Jessi Woody was announced as the Head Cheerleading Coach for Belmont Athletics.

Jessi spent the previous two seasons at Belmont as an assistant cheerleading coach. Prior to Belmont, she spent five seasons as the head cheerleading and dance coach at UT Martin. Jessi helped revolutionize the Skyhawk cheer program and start the Skyhawk dance team; after earning a Superior ranking at the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) College Camp — and third-place standing — UT Martin started competing at Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) College Nationals in 2017. With nearly two decades of competitive cheerleading experience, she competed at NCA Nationals all four years of her cheerleading career as an undergraduate student at Martin Methodist College.

“Throughout the interview process, it became clear that with her previous experience as a head cheer coach, her familiarity with the squad, and her passion for Belmont, Jessi was the right candidate,” said Josh Ward, Belmont Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Engagement.

MEN'S GOLF COACH

On May 22, 2024, Daniel DeLuca was announced as the fifth head coach in Belmont men’s golf history. He brings with him a strong pedigree of coaching and playing success.

"We are excited for Daniel to become our new head coach for men's golf," said Scott Corley. "His playing and coaching experience along with his familiarity with Belmont make him a great fit to lead our program forward."

JEFF CERO MEN'S TENNIS COACH

Jeff Cero was introduced as the Head Coach of the Belmont Men’s Tennis Program on February 5, 2024. Jeff joins the Bruins after spending the past four seasons as head men’s tennis coach at George Fox University in Newburg, Oregon. He led George Fox to unparalleled success, including three consecutive Northwest Conference championships, three straight NCAA Championship appearances, and a national quarterfinal finish in 2021. He was named the 2021 Wilson ITA West Region Coach of the Year and was a 2021 ITA

“It is truly an honor to be a part of this program and family of student-athletes, and I am excited to jump in right away. I look forward to investing, serving, and growing the program that Mauricio (Antun), Josh (McDermott), players past and present, and so many others have done up to this point so well, both on and off the court.”

Even though DeLuca was a part of the Belmont coaching staff for just six months as an assistant, his experience in the coaching world is extensive.

A native of Lexington, Kentucky, DeLuca previously served as the Head Men's Golf Coach at Murray State during the 2021-22 season. While at Murray, he helped lead the team to eight top10 finishes and had two golfers earn postseason honors from the OVC.

Before arriving at Murray, Daniel served as an assistant coach at both the United States Military Academy at West Point (2019-21) and Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas (2017-19).

“I am thrilled at the opportunity of leading the Belmont golf program. I have learned so much from Coach Flynn in my time here and I hope to continue to grow and develop the program based on the foundation of athletic and academic success he built over the last 16 years.”

As a golf student-athlete at Eastern Kentucky University, DeLuca earned the Ohio Valley Conference Medal of Honor in 2012 and 2016 for having the highest grade point average for men's golf across all OVC teams. He earned his undergraduate degree from EKU in sport management in 2015 and a master's degree in physical education with an emphasis in sports administration in 2017.

National Coach of the Year finalist. Jeff led them to a perfect 6-0 in conference tournament matches and 3-3 in the NCAA Division III Championship. Jeff’s George Fox Bruins won 44 dual matches from 2019–23. He was tabbed the Northwest Conference Coach of the Year in both 2022 and 2023.

Prior to his time at George Fox, Jeff spent time at the United States Tennis Association (USTA), was the men’s and women’s tennis head coach at Colorado Christian University, coached at the acclaimed IMG Bollettieri Academy in Bradenton, Florida, and was a youth pastor for five years.

26 | 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 27
DANIEL DELUCA

BELMONT BASKETBALL

2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE 29
TICKET INFORMATION CONTACT INFORMATION Belmont University Curb Event Center Ticket Office 2002 Belmont Blvd. Nashville, TN 37212 PHONE 615.460.BALL EMAIL TICKETS@BELMONT.EDU TICKET OFFICE HOURS OF OPERATION MONDAY – FRIDAY 9AM – 4:30PM SATURDAY & SUNDAY CLOSED Day of Event: Ticket Office opens two hours prior to event time and closes after halftime. PAYMENT OPTIONS Cash, check, MasterCard, Visa, Discover & American Express WILL-CALL General will-call is located at the Ticket Office in the East Rotunda in the Curb Event Center. General will-call is open 90 minutes prior to game time and remains open through halftime. No tickets are required for youth ages 2 and under SINGLE GAME TICKETS MEN'S & WOMEN'S GAMES $15 ADULT // $10 YOUTH ( ages 3-17) Minimum of 10 tickets must be purchased for the group rate GROUP TICKETS MEN'S & WOMEN'S GAMES $1O ADULT // $10 YOUTH ( ages 3-17) SEASON TICKETS $199 REGULAR PRICE // $50–$100 BELMONT YOUNG ALUMNI* *Young Alumni are defined as those who have graduated within the past 10 years and are under 33 years old. To redeem your Young Alumni discount, call or text 615.460.BALL or email tickets@belmont.edu If paying by check, please write separate checks for your Bruin Club gift and season tickets. Both may be issued to Belmont University. FLEX PACK $99 10 TICKET CREDIT VOUCHERS // $139 20 TICKET CREDIT VOUCHERS Flex Pack vouchers are good for any home game in any combination at a fraction of the cost of a full-price adult ticket. We are now fully mobile for Flex Pack redemption! Ask us how to take advantage! Tickets are subject to availability. Tickets must be purchased in advance to receive the group rate discount. Tickets will not be available for purchase at the discounted rate on the day of the game. To inquire, please call 615.460.BALL or email tickets@belmont.edu

BASKETBALL SEATING

“THE

BEST SEATS IN THE HOUSE!”

Don’t miss your chance to sit “Curbside” for Belmont Basketball in the most coveted seats in the Curb Event Center. These seats put you closer to the action than ever before! “Curbside” seats require an annual donation of $1,000 per seat, plus the cost of season tickets ($199/per). Seats include complimentary pregame beverage and popcorn service as well as pregame and halftime access to the Vince Gill Room. Please contact Russell Grimm at russell.grimm@belmont.edu

In addition to our “Curbside Seats,” another premium seating option in the Curb Event Center is our eight luxury suites. Prior to the 2022-23 season, Belmont renovated these suites by adding new carpet, leather seats, granite countertops, shelves, hidden refrigerators, furniture, and much more! The suites in Curb have four different designs and sizes. As a result, the annual commitment per suite varies based on the room’s setup. Suites include tickets for 6-14 people (depending on size), complimentary soda, water, popcorn, candy, and other snacks, as well as the ability to order from a diverse catering menu! Suites are sold on a season-long basis.

2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 31
BELMONT
114 10 9 110 108 111 107 112 113 104 105 103 115 116 106 109 110 108 111 107 112 104 105 103 116 114 106 10 110 108 111 107 112 104 105 103 115 116 ALUMNI SEATING MAP While all suites are currently committed, if you are interested in becoming a suiteholder, please contact: RUSSELL GRIMM russell.grimm@belmont.edu 615 560 5668 COLLIN SONDERMAN collin.sonderman@belmont.edu 615 560 5051

RUSSELL GRIMM

Russell Grimm was promoted to Executive Director of the Bruin Club in May 2022.

Hired as Director of Athletic Fundraising in 2016, Russell has spearheaded a 1,700% increase in giving to athletics and 300% increase in annual fund giving over the last six years. Russell oversees all aspects of Belmont University athletic development, including the Bruin Club, the Athletic Excellence Initiative, endowed athletic scholarships, The Betty Wiseman Mission Fund, facility projects, donor relations, hospitality, the Bruin Club Golf Classic, and other special events.

“Russell has been an incredible asset to Belmont Athletics,” said Vice President & Director of Athletics Scott Corley.

“Through his dedication and hard work, our athletic fundraising has reached historic levels. The future of the Bruin Club is very bright under Russell’s leadership.”

COLLIN SONDERMAN

Russell led gift conversations resulting in over 100 major gifts to Belmont Athletics and the creation of more than 25 new endowed scholarships.

Russell previously served in athletic development roles at VCU, Boston College, and Michigan. The Franklin, Tennessee, native graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2007 with a B.S. in Journalism and Electronic Media.

Following his time in Knoxville, he moved back home to Nashville to pursue his Master’s of Sport Administration from Belmont, graduating from the University’s MSA Program in 2009.

Russell and his wife Erin live in Nashville with their two dogs, Jackson and Franklin.

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT

Collin Sonderman was promoted to Associate Director of Athletic Development in May 2024.

Collin supports all aspects of Belmont University athletic fundraising, including the Bruin Club, the Athletic Excellence Initiative, endowed athletic scholarships, The Betty Wiseman Mission Fund, facility projects, donor relations, hospitality, the Bruin Club Golf Classic, and other special events.

In June of 2024, Collin’s role shifted as he’ll be traveling more; meeting with Bruins near and far!

Prior to coming Belmont in the summer of 2022, Collin worked for The Rams Club at the University of North Carolina, where he was part of a team that raised over $500 million for the Campaign for Carolina Athletics and $12.5 million for the Rams Club Annual Fund. Collin also spent three years working for the Seahawk Club at his alma mater, the University of North Carolina Wilmington, during his time in undergrad.

Collin and his wife Emily reside in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

32 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE

WHY DOES THE BELMONT ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT NEED GIFTS TO THE BRUIN CLUB? The Bruin Club provides critical support to our student-athletes and coaches. It also allows Belmont to address the rising costs that are associated with a highly competitive Division program. The support of our members allows our coaches and our teams to build and maintain successful sports programs.

Your support is an investment in the lives of each student-athlete who wears the Belmont uniform. Bruin Club gifts support updated training facilities and equipment, team travel, academic support programs, and other essential components required to support Belmont’s teams.

HOW DO I JOIN THE BRUIN CLUB? You can join by returning the enclosed membership form or contacting Russell Grimm, Executive Director of the Bruin Club, at russell.grimm@belmont.edu or 615.460.5668. You can also make a gift by visiting BelmontBruinClub.com.

IS MY DONATION TO THE BRUIN CLUB TAX-DEDUCTIBLE? Yes and no. Belmont University is a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible organization. An acknowledgment letter will be sent to you upon receiving your gift and will serve as a receipt of your contribution. By law as of 1/1/2018, gifts that accrue seating benefits are NOT tax-deductible. However, if you elect to decline seating benefits, your gift may be 100% tax-deductible. As with any tax inquiry, you should consult with your tax advisor.

HOW IS MY MONEY USED? Your gift will contribute to the future success of our student-athletes. One hundred percent of your Bruin Club donation goes to support the greatest needs of Belmont’s Athletic Department, as determined by the Athletic Director on an annual basis. These priorities vary from year to year but are always focused on enhancing our program to benefit our athletes and coaches. We need your continued help and support more and more each year as Belmont athletes strive to achieve success on and off the field.

WHAT ARE THE DEADLINES FOR MY CONTRIBUTION? The Bruin Club operates on a fiscal year calendar, in line with the University calendar. Therefore, Bruin Club memberships begin June 1 and end May 31 of the following year. For gifts that accrue seating benefits for men’s and women’s basketball, contributions must be received before season tickets are purchased.

WHAT IS THE VINCE GILL ROOM? The Vince Gill Room serves as the main hospitality room for the Bruin Club. Located above the main concourse on the west side of the Curb Event Center, the Vince Gill Room overlooks the arena. It serves as a place for Bruin Club members who contribute $1,500 or more to enjoy hospitality privileges before tip-off and during halftime of men’s and women’s basketball games.

DO I HAVE TO GIVE $100 TO BE A BRUIN CLUB MEMBER? While we do accept and appreciate any and all financial contributions, your gift must meet the $100 minimum to receive Bruin Club membership benefits.

DOES MY BRUIN CLUB MEMBERSHIP ALLOW ME TO PURCHASE BASKETBALL SEASON TICKETS? You do not have to give to the Bruin Club to purchase basketball season tickets. However, if you are interested in sitting in the Bruin Club sections (115 and 116) or enjoying the new courtside seats, a corresponding gift must be made. See the benefits chart (page 6) for details.

WHY MUST CONTRIBUTE TO HAVE ACCESS TO THE VINCE GILL ROOM OR SIT IN THE DESIGNATED BRUIN CLUB SECTIONS? While we appreciate any and all financial contributions, we do require a minimum gift of $500 to purchase basketball season tickets in the Bruin Club section. We require a minimum gift of $1,500 to visit the Vince Gill Room for the pregame meal, halftime snack service, and Chalk Talk. This is due to the cost of food and beverages served and the desire of the Bruin Club to ensure the benefits received at this contribution level are a commitment privilege.

ATHLETIC SPONSORSHIP PARTNER WITH THE BRUINS

Belmont Athletics offers advertising opportunities throughout the year at various athletics and campus events. Work with us to support our student-athletes and showcase your business to our large audience of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. Other benefits

of becoming an athletics corporate partner include brand recognition that can increase exposure and networking opportunities with key stakeholders at athletics events, as well as the opportunity to invest in the Nashville community and support local student-athletes.

For more information on becoming a Bruin Corporate Partner, please contact

HUNTER DANIELS

Director of Sales and Sponsorships hunter.daniels@belmont.edu

615 460 8027

For more information, please review the

chart in this membership guide or on our website at BelmontBruinClub.com, or contact one of the following:

560 5051

34 | 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE 2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 35
RUSSELL
benefits
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GRIMM russell.grimm@belmont.edu 615 560 5668 COLLIN SONDERMAN collin.sonderman@belmont.edu 615

Join your fellow Bruin Club members, alumni, parents, and friends for the annual Bruin Club Golf Classic presented by Enterprise Solutions. This year’s tournament will host 32 teams and feature a silent auction event. Last year’s tournament raised a record of more than $35,000 for Belmont Athletics and sold out quickly.

All golfers will receive breakfast, exclusive Bruin gear, and an invitation to a post-tournament awards reception with a catered lunch and a silent auction featuring unique Belmont, Nashville, Tennessee, southern items, and experiences! You can reach out to one of the following contacts to reserve your spot.

RUSSELL GRIMM

Executive Director of the Bruin Club russell.grimm@belmont.edu

615 560 5668

COLLIN SONDERMAN

Associate Director of Athletic Development collin.sonderman@belmont.edu

615 560 5051

SPONSORSHIPS WITH FOURSOMES INCLUDED ARE AVAILABLE AT:

$2,500

$2,500

$2,500

$2,500

$2,500

$5,000

$10,000

Driving Range Sponsor

Golf Cart Sponsor

Breakfast Sponsor

Par 3 Challenge Sponsor

Gift Sponsor

Lunch Sponsor

Co-Presenting Sponsor (2 Teams)

PRESENTED BY

2024–25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 37
8:00 A.M. SHOTGUN START TEE TIME $1,000 PER FOURSOME THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2024 GAYLORD SPRINGS

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.