ROCKINGHAM — Richmond Senior High School’s volleyball program served up its virtual fundraiser Monday.
Joining the football team, the Lady Raiders are using Snap! Raise to collect funds for the upcoming season. The crowdfunding website, which was approved for use by the Richmond County Board of Education in July, helps high school athletic programs reach fundraising goals.
Head coach Ashleigh Larsen and the varsity and junior varsity teams are set to officially begin play on Nov. 17 against Purnell Swett High School. While there are still many details to be ironed out between now and the season opener, obtaining funding has remained a constant for the Lady Raiders.
“The Lady Raider volleyball program needs as much assistance as possible,” Larsen, who is in her third season, said. “With the COVID-19 restrictions in place for the number of fans attending, we have a lot more budgeting to be aware of this year.
“We are also crossing into more unknowns for traveling than in a normal year,” she added. “Any bit of a donation will go a long way in purchasing new gear, assisting with travel and game costs, as well as general assistance for the overall program.”
Per the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, only 25 spectators will be allowed to attend volleyball matches (not including players, coaches or officials). That, coupled with the reduction of the season to just 14 games, will cut out a substantial amount of funding for the Richmond volleyball team in 2020.
The team set its goal for $2,500 and at the time of publication, a total $1,930 had already been raised. Larsen noted that as fundraising goals are met, new goals will be set.
Players have been tasked with sending emails and text messages to potential donors, and the fundraiser will run from now until Nov. 30. Fans can contact any of the players, Larsen or the team’s Snap! Raise website to donate money.
The Raider football team’s fundraiser, which began 12 days ago, has already seen $15,950 raised. Part of those funds will also be put in the school’s general athletic fund.
“I hope that the community will show as much support as the football program has received,” Larsen said. “Our girls work hard day in and day out and would love the community’s support.”
The Lady Raiders will begin official tryouts on Wednesday and will be allowed to begin actual practices the following week.
To donate to the Lady Raider volleyball team’s fundraiser, click here.
