2023-2024 Bruin Club Membership Guide

BRUIN FAMILY,

Greetings from Belmont Boulevard! As we welcome another southern summer here in Nashville, I’m able to reflect on our academic and athletic year with great pride. As you know, Belmont officially joined the Missouri Valley Conference last summer. As we approach our one-year anniversary as members of The Valley, we have learned a great deal about ourselves and I’m truly proud of the way that our student-athletes, coaches and administration have represented themselves to this point. Indeed, “Life in the Valley” has been good to the Bruins in its infancy stages.

Our decision to move into the Valley paid solid dividends on and off the field of competition. In the classroom, our student-athletes continue to excel at elite levels. Cumulatively, our programs put forth a 3.54 overall GPA, Belmont’s 51st consecutive semester above a 3.0 cumulative GPA. That academic success will never be something we compromise on at Belmont.

Athletically, there were many positives; our men’s basketball program achieved its 13th straight season with 20 wins or more (joining Kansas and Gonzaga as the only other programs able to accomplish this feat), women’s basketball continued its great run of success with a 23-12 overall record (including a 16-game win streak!), cross country saw both programs finish top-4 at the MVC Championships, and our men’s soccer program had a solid MVC debut season as well. Our men’s tennis team had an exceptional debut as Horizon league members (the MVC does not support men’s tennis), boasting a 21-6 record, capturing the Horizon League regular season and tournament championships, and earning an appearance in the NCAA Tournament.

I was proud to watch our programs compete at a notably higher level of competition. From the word go, it was easy to see the difference in the level of athlete we will be competing against as members of The Valley. I’m certain many of you shared that sentiment as you watched our teams compete this year. I’m confident our coaches and student-athletes will continue to rise to the occasion in year two. Athletically, our goal remains to be in the hunt to pursue and capture MVC championships, while finishing in the top third of the league in each sport.

Outside of the classroom and field of competition, the landscape of college athletics continues to be fluid. We continue to strive to be leaders for our student-athletes, providing them every resource possible and allowing them the ability to take hold of the

opportunities being a Bruin student-athlete presents them.

From a support standpoint, it is evident to me that we need Bruin Nation to dig in, deeper than ever, and in more ways than ever. Our first year as Valley members taught us many lessons, chief among them the elevated cost of competition in the MVC. We find ourselves in a conference with larger alumni bases, more resources and a greater focus on investing in their athletic programs. It is our duty to our student-athletes to continue to pursue avenues of support that will allow them to compete and win at the highest level within the MVC.

As we adjust to “Life in the Valley”, I hope you are as excited about the future of our athletic programs as I am. Every day, we are able to challenge ourselves and strive for greater heights.

Scott Corley Vice President & Director of Athletics

Go Bruins!

“LIFE IN THE VALLEY”

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

BRUIN CLUB REMINDERS

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

PRE-GAME & HALFTIME ACCESS TO THE VINCE GILL ROOM!

• Available to donors giving $1,000+ 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 $1,000+ to Belmont Athletics for all men’s and women’s home basketball games includes popcorn, dessert and drinks

PLATINUM BRUIN LEVEL

• $10,000+ annually to Belmont Athletics

• Exclusive Belmont Athletics donor travel opportunity

• Exclusive Belmont Basketball practice viewing opportunity

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

• Bruin Club benefits not recognized until gift is made

ANNUAL BRUIN CLUB GOLF CLASSIC

• September 8, 2023 at 8:00

• Gaylord Springs Golf Links

• $1,000/foursome, sponsorships available

• Silent auction and post-tournament reception

RED BRUINS ($1,000 ANNUALLY AND ABOVE)

=RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE BRUIN CLUB GIFT SCAN HERE TO DONATE

BRUIN CLUB CALENDAR

VINCE GILL ROOM RENOVATION/EXPANSION

The Vince Gill Room is expanding! Thanks to the growth in membership of the Bruin Club over the last several years, the Vince Gill Room is due for a much needed renovation and expansion. Currently, we are undergoing a renovation of the space that will bring the square footage in the room from 3,500 to over 5,500. This new and improved room will be a great addition for the 2023-24 season!

Access to the Vince Gill Room for men’s and women’s basketball games will continue at the $1,000 (Red Bruin) giving level. A donation of $1,000 or more will allow you to enter before all men’s and women’s basketball games for a full pre-game meal and snacks at halftime. Passes given for entry to the Vince Gill Room is equal to the number of season tickets purchased in the Bruin Club Section. Interested parties may contact Russell Grimm at 615.460.5668 or russell.grimm@belmont.edu or Collin Sonderman at 615.460.5051 or collin.sonderman@belmont.edu

BENEFITS CHART

PLATINUM BRUIN ($10,000 & ABOVE) RED BRUIN($1,000–$2,499) GOLD BRUIN($5,000–$9,999) BLUE BRUIN($500–$999) SILVER BRUIN($2,500–$4,999) WHITE BRUIN($100–$499)

PLATINUM BRUIN CLUB TRIP

Last year, Belmont Athletics hosted its annual “Platinum Bruins" trip with a memorable visit to Chicago, as the Belmont faithful traveled to watch the Bruins take on a new MVC foe, the UIC Flames.

We are excited to continue this tradition 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/shoot around 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, TX; UCLA in Los Angeles, CA; Boston College in Boston, MA; LSU in Baton Rouge, LA; and UIC in Chicago, IL.

If you are able, 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.

“The annual Bruin Club trip is something that we look forward to because we have an opportunity to get to know other donors who share our love for Belmont and basketball. This trip helps create the Belmont family that we feel in the Curb Event Center and in the Vince Gill Room each game day. Another highlight for us is getting to know who the players are off the court and catch a glimpse of them personally - where they are from, what they are studying, etc. It makes cheering for them on the court even more special.”

– RANDY AND RHONDA TONEY

“The Bruin Club trip made me feel more a part of Bruin Nation than ever before! This was the perfect opportunity to spend quality, purposeful time getting to know other Bruin Club members, while gaining a new appreciation for all the time and energy the Belmont players, coaches, and staff spend behind the scenes preparing in the days/hours leading up to each game.”

- CHASE TRIVETT

BREAKING DOWN THE BRUIN CLUB

• CASH/CHECK

• ONLINE AT BELMONTBRUINCLUB.COM

• TRANSFER OF SECURITIES

• BEQUEST OR BENEFICIARY DESIGNATION

• GIFTS OF TANGIBLE PROPERTY SUCH AS REAL ESTATE

• GIFTS-IN-KIND

WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT BELMONT ATHLETICS

BETTY WISEMAN MISSION FUND

• 100% student-athlete mission trip support

• Gifts do not receive Bruin Club membership level credit

SPORT- SPECIFIC GIFTS

(ANNUAL GIVING)

• 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

BRUIN CLUB

(ANNUAL GIVING)

• 100% of all gifts to Athletic Director’s discretion

• Operational & facility maintenance support

• Gifts receive Bruin Club membership level credit

• Season tickets, parking, post-season ticket access

MAJOR GIFTS

• Athletic Scholarship Endowment ($50k & up)

• Capital Project Naming Opportunities ($25k & up)

• Pledges to Crockett Center for Athletic Excellence

• Baseball/Softball Hitting Facility

• Planned Giving ($50k & up)

• BELMONT EMPLOYEE PAYROLL DEDUCTION

• MAJOR GIFTS —ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT ($50K & UP)

For more information or to ask questions about ways to give, please contact Russell Grimm, Executive Director of the Bruin Club at 615.460.5668 or russell.grimm@belmont.edu or Collin Sonderman, Assistant Director of Athletic Development at 615.460.5051 or collin.sonderman@belmont.edu

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 three areas accrue Bruin Club benefits. Donors may choose to make a gift to any of the following teams:

• 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

ENDOWED ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS

The largest expense any athletic department incurs is the cost of scholarships for deserving student-athletes. Belmont Athletics supports 134 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.

ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE INITIATIVE: 2023–24 UPDATE

On July 1, 2022, Belmont officially joined the Missouri Valley Conference. In accord, Belmont Athletics launched the “Athletic Excellence Initiative,” 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.

OPPORTUNITIES:

• Travel accommodations—Ability to offer more travel friendly accommodations for all sports including:

• Ability to take flights to more contests

• Ability to charter flights when needed

• Ability to add extra hotel stays as needed

• Enhanced meal and equipment budget

• International Trips—The NCAA allows men’s and women’s basketball teams the opportunity to take one international trip every four summers.

• WBB Scheduling—Play in a multi-team tournament event each year. Events require an entrance fee and some travel expenses.

• MBB Scheduling—Offer guaranteed financial payments to schools for more home games including hosting a multi-team tournament at Belmont.

• Game Day Experience at the Curb Event Center:

• Add video boards throughout the arena

• Add more premium seating options

• Enhance concession area

• Enhance suites

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 Russell Grimm, Executive Director of the Bruin Club, at russell.grimm@belmont.edu or 615.460.5668 or Collin Sonderman, Assistant Director of Athletic Development, at collin.sonderman@belmont.edu or 615.460.5051

2023–24 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE |

2023 BRUIN CLUB GIVING NUMBERS

DONORS BY STATE

NUMBER OF STUDENTATHLETES

GIVING LAST FIVE YEARS (DOLLARS RAISED)

We are excited to announce a successful fiscal year where we raised $1,685,971. Belmont reports dollars raised (gifts and new pledges). Taking into account two principle gifts made last year, this established a new giving record for Belmont Athletics.

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 each year, with an ultimate aim to raise $5 million annually to Belmont Athletics by 2027, with more than 1,000 annual Bruin Club members.

After seeing “Life in the Valley” for a year, we need your help to keep Belmont Athletics on its current trajectory.

Informational graphs on the past five years of athletic giving are shown here, including: number of donors, Bruin Club (annual fund) giving, and overall athletic giving.

IN 2023, BELMONT ATHLETICS RAISED

$1,685,971

TOTAL ANNUAL COST OF EXPERIENCE STUDENT-ATHLETES’ COST OF EXPERIENCE

275 X $65,270 === $17,949,250

619 FY23 DONORS

BY THE NUMBERS

BY THE NUMBERS

2 MVC INDIVIDUAL SPORTSMANSHIP AWARDS

Derek Sabin, Men’s Basketball

JP Armbruster, Men’s Soccer

ALL-REGION RECIPIENTS

Ben Sheppard , Men’s Basketball (First Team)

Case Cox, Men’s Soccer (First Team)

Claire Fallon, Women’s Soccer (Third Team)

ALL-CONFERENCE RECIPIENTS

COACH OF THE YEAR

Mauricio Antun, Men’s Tennis

7 ALL-MVC FIRST TEAM HONOREES, 8 ALL-MVC SECOND TEAM HONOREES, 2 ALL-HORIZON LEAGUE FIRST TEAM HONOREES, 2 ALL-HORIZON LEAGUE

SECOND TEAM HONOREES

Cade Tyson, MVC Newcomer of the Year (Men’s Basketball)

Jack Shoenberger, MVC Newcomer of the Year (Men’s Golf)

Abi Ledbetter, MVC Defensive Player of the Year (Softball)

Mariia Hlahola , MVC Co-Freshman of the Year (Women’s Tennis)

3 CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL (MVC REGULAR SEASON) AND MEN’S TENNIS (HORIZON LEAGUE REGULAR SEASON AND TOURNAMENT)

Betty Wiseman, the matriarch of Belmont Athletics, celebrated her 80th birthday on February 19, 2023! Growing up in nearby Portland, TN, Betty began her time at Belmont when she arrived as a student in 1961. By her senior year in 1965, former Belmont President Herbert Gabhart offered her a position as a physical education teacher.

In 1968, Belmont Betty had the idea to start a women’s basketball program, the first women’s sports team at Belmont. Wiseman and her team traveled the country in two station wagons to find other women’s basketball teams to play. Some of those opponents were professional teams, such as the Chinese National Team, and others were fellow collegiate programs that did not yet have the structure that Title IX would provide four years later in 1972. A large part of Betty’s legacy at Belmont is her dedication to mission work. In 1995 Betty took a group of Belmont studentathletes to Poland to serve the underprivileged. Since that first mission trip, Belmont Athletics has served on 32 mission trips, spanning 14 countries, allowing more than 250 Belmont studentathletes to serve others and grow closer in their relationship with God. After first stepping foot on Belmont’s campus over 60 years ago, Betty’s values and beliefs still guide Belmont studentathletes, coaches, and administration to this day.

The Betty Wiseman Mission Fund exists to allow our studentathletes 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!

Over Spring Break, 17 Belmont student-athletes and two 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 of Belmont volleyball, women’s soccer, men’s soccer, track & field, and cross country teams. 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.

This June, Belmont Athletics will go back to Poland, the location of the first Belmont Athletics Mission Trip led by Betty Wiseman in the 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 through 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.

BRUINS IN THE COMMUNITY

OVERVIEW & SHOP WITH THE BRUINS

SHOP WITH THE BRUINS

On December 15, 2022, 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 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 of Tennessee!

The information below captures the total impact of Belmont studentathletes' community involvement in the greater Nashville community.

BRUINS IN THE COMMUNITY

ATHLETE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM & TEAM IMPACT

AMP: ATHLETE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

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 student-athlete 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 Soctt Corley and was created in 2018. In the 2022-23 academic year, AMP’s fifth year of existence, 45 student-athletes from all 17 sports participated in the program. This year’s group of mentors come from a number of career fields including accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, health care, music business, public relations, sales, and sports. The group also boasts 25 Belmont alumni, including 18 former student- athletes.

AMP is a part of a larger student-athlete 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.

TEAM IMPACT

Belmont’s baseball 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, women’s basketball, cheerleading, and softball have all applied to be involved with Team IMPACT for next year!

BRUINS IN THE COMMUNITY

BRUINS STAND WITH COVENANT

Following the tragic events at The Covenant School on March 27, 2023, Belmont Athletics showed its support for the school in a variety of ways; including hosting a basketball camp for Covenant students, offering a cheer clinic, and putting on a 6k in memory of the victims with all proceeds going to support The Covenant School.

BEHIND THE BRUINS

Each day, Belmont’s student-athletes are supported by a passionate, skilled athletic administration dedicated to providing them the best possible experience academically and athletically while on campus. Their hard work often goes unnoticed behind-the-scenes. Here are some of their stories...

Q&A WITH JOSH WARD SENIOR ASSOCIATE AD FOR EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT BELMONT AND WHAT KEEPS YOU HERE? I have been at Belmont for three years. Although I have only been here for a short time, the people and culture are what makes it special and a place you’d want to stay for a long time. The collaboration, humility, and passion that everyone brings to work is truly unique this day in age.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE HERE? I oversee revenue generation, corporate partnerships, ticketing, licensing, fan engagement, marketing and promotions. I also work in concert with existing university and athletic units specific to external relations, communications, creative services, and development.

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE YOU’VE EXPERIENCED AT BELMONT? The majority of my role focuses on external relationships around Belmont Athletics. However, since have been here, the most rewarding experience has been getting to know and be around our student-athletes. They do so much on and off the playing surface that impresses me on a regular basis.

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN BELMONT ATHLETICS EVOLVE IN YOUR TIME HERE? In my short time, Belmont Athletics has evolved quite a bit. We have successfully made the shift to the MVC and made huge strides with facilities as we added the Crockett Center, the Rose Park Hitting Facility, and now the upcoming renovations to the Vince Gill Room. These evolutions publicly show the continued rise and commitment the university has to athletics.

CONVERSELY, HOW DO YOU WANT TO SEE BELMONT ATHLETICS CONTINUE TO GROW AND CHANGE THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? The future is bright for Belmont Athletics! I am excited to continue to work with our athletics staff and coaches to help grow our presence in Nashville and the region. We will need continue to be increasingly aggressive in engaging all parts of the city and region around the quality of our student-athletes, our athletic department, and university.

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR ENJOYMENT OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I enjoy spending time with my family and watching sports.

3RD YEAR AT BELMONT

REANNA RICE

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, OF ADMINISTRATION

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT BELMONT AND WHAT KEEPS YOU HERE? I started working here in April of 2021. I really enjoy all the people I get to work with, both colleagues and students alike. The sense of community plays a huge part in what keeps me here. I also see so much potential in Belmont, not just in athletics, but the university as a whole. In my short amount of time here, I’ve seen so much positive change and growth, from new buildings and facilities, to newly created positions, to HR benefits and perks; it’s great to be a part of all of the awesome things happening at Belmont!

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE HERE? In my role

I get the opportunity to serve in a variety of ways. I am the primary human resources and information technology liaison for the athletic department. I also oversee our graduate assistant, internship, and student worker programs, as well as coordinate special events in our department, administer textbook scholarship program for student-athletes, manage the office, and perform general office/administrative duties while assisting our Athletic Director.

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

YOU’VE EXPERIENCED AT BELMONT? There have been many rewarding experiences, but would say the most special one was our 2022 Bruins Choice Awards. I helped organize and plan the award show in the new Fisher Center. It was an amazing night spent honoring our impressive student-athletes.

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN BELMONT ATHLETICS EVOLVE IN YOUR TIME HERE? In my short amount of time here I’ve been able to see our student athletes excel in the classroom and on their respective fields of play in both the OVC and MVC. We have had several programs compete for and win conference titles, and some even make some noise in the NCAA tournament!

CONVERSELY, HOW DO YOU WANT TO SEE BELMONT

ATHLETICS CONTINUE TO GROW AND CHANGE THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? In the next five years I would love to see our support for student-athletes grow. This would include professional development resources and newly created positions, so we can continue to serve our student athletes and give them the best experience and opportunities possible.

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR ENJOYMENT OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I really enjoy just spending time with my family and friends. This could be just hanging out at home or going out to dinner. I love concerts, traveling, and a good TV show that’s binge-worthy.

BELMONT UNIVERSITY’S HEAD COACHES

“Our first season in the MVC was a great learning experience for our program. One of the hardest adjustments was managing the travel demands of the new conference, and it was extremely difficult to win games on the road in some amazing environments! Together with the support of our loyal fan base, our team found a way to win a championship in our first year in the MVC, but we also know our program has so much room to grow and we need the support of everyone who loves Belmont WBB to help us achieve even more in year two!”

“Our first year in the Valley was everything we wanted and more. It was clearly an upward trajectory move highlighted by first class facilities, proud fan bases, and tradition rich basketball programs that are all making a significant investment to win.”

"Year one in the MVC was exciting and challenging for our program and student-athletes. The competition forced us to continue to raise the standards in every area of our program, as each opponent and venue have their strengths. With continued support and everything Belmont has to offer, we feel that we will be challenging for MVC Championships for years to come."

“We have learned so much in our first year in the Valley. The competition level is so high, and being at our best is more important than ever. We have traveled more miles and have spent more time away from home, so it’s crucial that we continue to provide the best for our student-athletes as we look to be the top athletic department in the MVC.”

BART BROOKS

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACH

CASEY ALEXANDER

MEN’S BASKETBALL COACH

LAURA MATTHEWS SOFTBALL COACH

MAURICIO ANTUN

MEN’S TENNIS COACH

KELSEY FENIX CAMERON

WOMEN’S SOCCER COACH

DAVID COSTA

MEN’S SOCCER COACH

SCOTT FLYNN

MEN’S GOLF COACH

KATELYN HARRISON VOLLEYBALL COACH

DAVE JARVIS BASEBALL COACH

OLIVIA JORDAN

BASEBALL COACH

JEFF LANGDON DIRECTOR OF TRACK & FIELD & CROSS COUNTRY

LINDSEY WHEELEY CHEERLEADING COACH

DANE VORSTER

WOMEN’S TENNIS COACH

,

NEW BRUINS IN THE DEN

É VORSTER HEAD COACH WOMEN'S TENNIS

KELSEY FENIX CAMERON HEAD COACH WOMEN'S SOCCER

“I am honored to be selected to lead the women’s tennis program in a new conference and chapter. I am excited to join the Bruin family and look forward to mentoring and developing each student-athlete to become the best versions of themselves. With hard work we can achieve excellence both on the court and in the classroom, and together establish a winning legacy and empowering culture for Belmont women’s tennis. I can’t wait to get started!”

Dané Vorster was introduced as the Head Coach of the Belmont Women’s Tennis Program on August 15, 2022. Dané joins the Bruins after most recently being an assistant coach at UCSB from 2018-21 where she led the Gauchos to new heights that included undefeated conference play, a double-digit win streaks, and an NCAA Women’s Tennis Championship appearance. Prior to Santa Barbara, Dané worked with the Northwestern women’s tennis team.

Dané was born in South Africa and grew up in Queensland, Australia before coming to the United States for collegiate tennis. She was at Texas A&M for one year before transferring to Portland State where she went on to be a two-time ITA Scholar-Athlete honoree, three-time ITA All-Academic Team award recipient, team captain, and All-Big Sky Conference First Team selection. Dané ranks as one of the winningest players in Portland State and Big Sky history.

“I am thrilled to become the head coach for Belmont Women’s Soccer! I love the vision to be ‘student-focused and Christcentered with a championship mentality.’ I believe this is a place where we can pursue excellence while also fostering an environment focused on character development. Our success will not only be measured in wins and losses, but also by the type of young women who graduate from this program and go out into the world to have families, careers, and contribute to society in a positive way. I am excited to get started and to lead this program to the top of the Missouri Valley Conference!”

Kelsey Fenix Cameron was introduced as the Head Coach of the Belmont Women’s Soccer Program on December 22, 2022. Kelsey arrives at Belmont after an impressive six-year stint as the head coach at Trevecca Nazarene University, where she led the Trojans to a 50-37-18 record. During her time at Trevecca, Kelsey directed the program to its first two NCAA Division II regional rankings in program history, including a six week stretch ranked 8th during the 2022-23 season. The 2019 Great Midwest Athletic Conference Coach of the Year coached 22 all-conference and five NCAA D2CCA Midwest All-Region players during her tenure. In her time before Trevecca, Fenix Cameron was the associate head coach at Lipscomb University.

Kelsey grew up in Ohio and played collegiately at the University of Kentucky. During her four-year letterwinning stint, she captained the Wildcats to the 2006 SEC Championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance. Kelsey earned ESPN/CoSIDA First Team Academic All-District in 2006 and All-SEC first team honors in 2007 during her senior campaign.

DAN

BRUIN ALUMNI

‘09

DR. ANDY E. WICKE

WHO HAD THE BIGGEST INFULENCE ON YOU DURING YOUR ATHLETIC CARRER AT BELMONT AND HOW? That’s a tough question. I am not sure I could pick just one person. Besides my family, I would have to say my coaches and teammates.

WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING YOU GAINED OR LEARNED FROM YOUR TIME AT BELMONT? The impact that sports can have on people’s lives. I knew sports were a big deal as a kid, but I didn’t quite understand the unique platform that sports have to make an impact on so many people. I learned this through our trips to the NCAA tournaments, but also in simple things like seeing the ball boys at the home games and how excited they were to be down on the court with us. I really learned the breadth of our impact when I traveled with Betty Wiseman and other Belmont faculty and student-athletes abroad through the Betty Wiseman Mission Fund trips. We were able to spread the message of Jesus Christ across the world using sports as a common bridge. I still carry those moments and emotions with me every day. They still have an impact on how I make decisions.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO CURRENT BELMONT STUDENT-ATHLETES? Don’t wait to be the best you can be. Just go be it. Life is short, make a difference now.

WHO WAS YOUR FAVORITE PROFESSOR AND WHY? Ah!! Tough one! am going to put a few names. Darlene Panvini, John Gonas, Steve Murphree, Nathan Griffith…all of the professors I had cared about their students on a different level. I still talk with Dr. Gonas to this day!

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE BELMONT? I chose Belmont because it was an intimate D1 school that would require me to attend class and because of the small class sizes, it would be noticeable if I wasn’t present. I needed to choose a school that would set me up to be successful academically, unlike a lot of bigger schools I was recruited by that boasted about the ability to use tutors or academic advisors to take notes for you so you didn’t have to go to class.

WHAT IS YOUR FONDEST ATHLETIC MEMORY AT BELMONT? Celebrating winning the conference tournament and making the NCAA tournament with my teammates, and honestly every goal celebration…serotonin unlike any other feeling!

WHO HAD THE BIGGEST INFULENCE ON YOU DURING YOUR ATHLETIC CARRER AT BELMONT AND HOW? That’s a tough question. I am not sure I could pick just one person. Besides my family, I would have to say my coaches and teammates.

WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING YOU GAINED OR LEARNED FROM YOUR TIME AT BELMONT? Colette Keyser-she made me feel seen, appreciated and supported through a lot of ups and downs. When I felt alone or ostracized by certain aspects of school, she made me feel like I still belonged and was supported. Colette knew how to keep me focused and helped me more than she will ever know.

BRUIN ALUMNI ‘11

ERICA CARTER

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE BELMONT? Belmont just felt like an extension of my community that I had in Hendersonville. The people were warm and welcoming. People cared and wanted to be the best versions of themselves…I picked up on that quickly. No one had to vocalize things, it was just evident in how they carried themselves. My high school coach, Kerry West, who was a great Belmont guard, was a mentor to me and spoke so highly of his Belmont experience. But ultimately, it was the team that sold Belmont for me. had dreams to play basketball at the Division 1 level. When I met the type of players that the coaches had recruited, I knew I was going to have a great time being around solid guys with similar values and a similar mindset.

WHAT IS YOUR FONDEST ATHLETIC MEMORY AT BELMONT?

My role as Director of Sports Performance involves all things in the physical development of our student-athletes. Our main purpose is to help build resilient athletes for the field of play and give them tools to perform physically at a higher capacity. Strength, power, speed, mobility, stability, control, and recovery are a few areas of focus for our Sports Performance staff.

SINCE GRADUATING, YOU’VE BECOME A BRUIN CLUB MEMBER. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THIS CHOICE AND WHY DO YOU FIND IT IMPORTANT TO GIVE BACK TO BELMONT? I am super grateful for the time I spent at Belmont. I want others to have that same experience. want my kids to see how special places, like Belmont, can make a big impact on others.

WHAT IS YOUR OCCUPATION? WHAT DOES YOUR POSITION ENTAIL? I am an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. I do everything from taking teeth out to full facial reconstruction. I am a partner/ owner of OMS Nashville and we have 10 doctors and almost 100 employees!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. I am married to my high school sweetheart, Emily. She stays home and takes care of our 3 children (Eden (10), Everett (7) and Elm (2)). Eden and Everett love sports, particularly basketball. They attend Franklin Road Academy. We also have two huge dogs that are Berniedoodles (Oakley and Banks). Everyone is healthy and happy. We are truly blessed!

WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING YOU GAINED OR LEARNED FROM YOUR TIME AT BELMONT? Long lasting bonds and friendships with my teammates that are incomparable to other relationships in my life. No one knows or understands all that student-athletes endure other than our own teammates and we are truly bonded forever.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO CURRENT BELMONT STUDENT-ATHLETES? Live in the present, and enjoy it as much as you can while knowing, it won’t last forever. Be sure that your entire identity is not the sport as it will leave you one day and you don’t want to have to search for a new identity. Have other hobbies and interests to make your transition after being a student-athlete a little easier, you can do both and still devote yourself to being a student-athlete in the way that you need. Give yourself grace.

WHO WAS YOUR FAVORITE PROFESSOR AND WHY? Susan Barnes--she taught me real life practical skills I use to this day and we are still in touch! She taught me the importance of throwing a good event and the keys to doing so, which translates to so many aspects of life now.

SINCE GRADUATING, YOU’VE BECOME A BRUIN CLUB MEMBER. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THIS CHOICE AND WHY DO YOU

FIND IT IMPORTANT TO GIVE BACK TO BELMONT? I find it important to give back because I am grateful for all that Belmont has given me. I received a great education that serves as the foundation for where I am now and continues to propel me forward in my journey of life.

WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW? Brooklyn, NY

WHAT IS YOUR OCCUPATION? WHAT DOES YOUR POSITION ENTAIL? I am Senior Counsel for Epic Games in the Legal and Business Affairs team. No day is ever the same for me, which is what I love. From countless meetings, negotiations, contract drafting, travel, risk analysis and assessment, and advising our business teams on how to achieve their goals-- my role is ever evolving and changing contingent on needs within our teams.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. I have a fur baby named Truffle that my former teammate Charlotte Blake found for me at a shelter in Kentucky, trained him for five months and flew him to me to be his furever mom! My parents are in Houston, TX and I see them often there or when they visit in New York.

BELMONT BASKETBALL TICKET INFORMATION

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.

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: 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

// Closed Saturday & Sunday Day of Event: Ticket Office opens two hours prior to event time and closes after halftime.

TICKET OFFICE 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.

BELMONT BASKETBALL TICKET INFORMATION

SINGLE GAME TICKETS

Men’s Games & Doubleheaders

• $15 Adult // $10 Youth (Ages 3–17)

• No ticket required for youth ages 2 and under

GROUP TICKETS*

Men’s Games & Doubleheaders

• $10 Adult // $7.50 Youth (Minimum of 10 tickets purchased)

Women’s Games

• $10 Adult // $7.50 Youth (Ages 3–17)

• No ticket required for youth ages 2 and under

Women’s Games

• $5 Adult // $5 Youth (Minimum of 10 tickets purchased)

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.

2023–24 MEMBERSHIP

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 ticket ($199/per). Seats include complimentary pre-game beverage and popcorn service as well as pre-game and halftime access to the Vince Gill Room. Please contact Russell Grimm at russell.grimm@belmont.edu to inquire about availability!

SUITES

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. While all suites are currently committed, if you are interested in becoming a suiteholder, please contact Russell Grimm at russell.grimm@belmont.edu or Collin Sonderman at collin.sonderman@belmont.edu to find out more!

PREMIUM SEATING OPTIONS HERE

GRIMM—EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE BRUIN CLUB

Grimm begins his seventh year with Belmont this summer. He leads all facets of Belmont University athletic development. Grimm has guided gift conversations resulting in over 75 major gifts to Belmont Athletics and the creation of more than 30 new endowed scholarships for athletics. Russell has also spearheaded a 1,700% increase in giving to athletics and a 300% increase in annual fund giving over the last six years.

“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; am excited for him.”

Before coming back to his alma mater, he previously served in athletic development roles at VCU, Boston College and Michigan. The Franklin, Tennessee native graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2007, and then moved back home to Nashville to pursue his Masters of Sport Administration from Belmont, graduating from the University’s MSA Program in 2009. Russell and his wife Erin live in west Nashville with their dogs, Jackson & Franklin

GETTING TO KNOW RUSSELL:

Hometown: Franklin, TN

Favorite Belmont Athletics Memory: Winning the Men’s Basketball OVC Championship in 2020 (on a back door cut), beating UCLA at Pauley Pavilion (on a back door cut), Women’s Basketball beating Oregon and coming *this close* to beating UT in Knoxville in 2022.

Favorite Restaurant in Nashville: Lots of great options but inevitably you can find Erin (my wife) and me at Sam’s Place in Belle Meade on a weekly basis! For a nicer spot, Urban Grub on 12 South - where I took Collin on his interview!

Favorite Music Genre/Musician: Texas/Red Dirt Country: Ryan Bingham, Parker McCollum, William Clark Green, Shane Smith & the Saints, Randy Rogers Band, etc. I go to “MusicFest” in Steamboat, CO each January where a lot of these bands play annually!

Fun Fact: I share my name with an NFL Hall of Famer - we are not related!

RUSSELL GRIMM

Executive Director of the Bruin Club

615.460.5668 // RUSSELL.GRIMM@BELMONT.EDU

COLLIN SONDERMAN—ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE BRUIN CLUB

Collin enters his second year with Belmont supporting all aspects of athletic development, including the Bruin Club, the newly created 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.

“We are thrilled for Collin to begin his second year as part of the Bruin family,” Grimm said. “Collin’s previous experience has proven valuable to his transition to Belmont. His friendly, easygoing nature, passion for college athletics, confidence in his ability to get the job done and clear desire to be at Belmont shines through in his daily work with the Bruin Club.”

Prior to Belmont, Sonderman spent time working for The Rams Club at the University of North Carolina and for the Seahawk Club at his alma mater, the University of North Carolina Wilmington (’21).

GETTING TO KNOW COLLIN:

Hometown: Greenwood, IN (suburb of Indianapolis)

Favorite Belmont Athletics Memory: Probably my first Belmont men’s basketball game, which was opening night last season against Ohio University when Cade Tyson hit a buzzer beating three-pointer to win the game! Or, last year at the start of the women’s basketball team’s incredible 16-game winning streak when they put up an astounding 101 points on the Southern Illinois Salukis!

Favorite Restaurant in Nashville: Impossible to choose just one - I’d go with Joyland in East Nashville home of the “CrustBurger” or Martin’s BBQ right down the street from Belmont!

Favorite Music Genre/Musician: I’m a big fan of singersongwriter style country music. My favorite musician is Belmont alum, Ryan Hurd. heard him open for some other Belmont alums, Florida Georgia Line, in 2017 and ever since Ryan has been my favorite!

Fun Fact: I collect sneakers and have over 100 pairs!

COLLIN SONDERMAN

Assistant Director of Athletic Development

615.560.5051 //

COLLIN.SONDERMAN@BELMONT.EDU

RUSSELL

ASKED QUESTIONS

WHY DOES THE BELMONT ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT NEED GIFTS TO THE BRUIN CLUB?

The Bruin Club provides critical support of our student-athletes and coaches. It also allows Belmont to address the rising costs that are associated with a highly competitive Division I 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 TAXDEDUCTIBLE?

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 studentathletes. 100% 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 for the benefit of 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.

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.

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 and serves as a place for Bruin Club members who contribute $1,000 or more and enjoy hospitality privileges before tip-off and during halftime of men’s and women’s basketball games.

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 & 116), or enjoying the new courtside seats, a corresponding gift must be made. See the benefits chart (page 6) for details.

WHY MUST I CONTRIBUTE TO HAVE ACCESS INTO 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 $1,000 to visit the Vince Gill Room for the pre-game 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.

For more information, please review the benefits chart in this membership guide, on our website at BelmontBruinClub.com or contact Russell Grimm, Executive Director of the Bruin Club at 615.460.5668 or russell.grimm@belmont.edu.

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, 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 Tommy Henry, Director of Sales and Sponsorships. (tommy.henry@belmont.edu | 615.483.1727)

2023 BRUIN CLUB GOLF CLASSIC

SAVE THE DATE

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 over $35,000 for Belmont Athletics and sold out quickly.

Contact Russell Grimm Executive Director of the Bruin Club, at 615.560.5668, or russell.grimm@belmont.edu or Collin Sonderman Assistant Director of Athletic Development, at 615.560.5051 or collin.sonderman@belmont.edu to reserve your spot ASAP!

WHEN: Friday, September 8, 2023

WHERE: Gaylord Springs

PROJECTED TEE TIME: 8 a.m. Shotgun Start Tee Time

COST: $1,000 per foursome

Sponsorships with foursomes included available at:

$2,500—Driving Range Sponsor

$2,500—Golf Cart Sponsor

$2,500—Breakfast Sponsor

$2,500—Par 3 Challenge Sponsor

$2,500—Gift Sponsor

$5,000—Lunch Sponsor

$10,000—Co-Presenting Sponsor (2 Teams)

All golfers will receive breakfast, exclusive Bruin gear, and an invitation to a post-tournament awards reception with catered lunch and a silent auction featuring unique Belmont, Nashville, Tennessee, southern items, and experiences!”

PRESENTED BY SCAN