March 8, 2016
PRINCESS ANNE, Md. - Head Coach Fred Batchelor has had quite an impact with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. As the leader of the women's basketball program for almost a dozen years, he has created consistency in the program from the player's academic prowess, to their character to the expectations of success.
Now he has created Lady Hawk Nation, a new initiative which aims to grow the program even more. He has built the program on core values of High character, Academic excellence, Work ethic, Kindness and Service. All of those traits form an acronym for H.A.W.K.S. and are his vision of what his Hawks should be. In order to continue the ascent up the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) standings and continue to graduate and develop quality student-athletes, Batchelor is asking for the financial assistance of Hawk fans, friends and alumni.
"Lady Hawk Nation is alive and it is strong," said Batchelor. "But we need everyone's support to reach our fullest potential and continue to impact our student-athletes and in turn, our great university."
As the cost of competing at the Division I level rises, with everything from equipment to travel to staffing, the women's basketball program also wants to rise and meet those needs head on.
Batchelor and his staff are asking for donations that begin at the $25.00 Nation Club level and continue up through the Championship Club level for $500.00.
"We want to offer our student-athletes the best experience possible, and that costs money," added Batchelor. "Whether it is equipment, academic support, enrichment activities or even a foreign tour in the future, it takes extra support to be able to move our program from excellence to eminence. Now that preparation for next season has begun, we want to make our University, fans, alumni and families even more proud."
Supporters can make a donation online by clicking here or on the Lady Hawk Nation link on the women's basketball page. A brochure can also be printed out from the site and mailed in. Those who want the brochure mailed directly or want to make a commitment by phone can call Associate Director of Athletics G. Stan Bradley at 410-651-6499 or e-mail him at gsbradley@umes.edu
`Lady Hawk Nation' is an activity of the UMES Foundation. Funds received will be managed by the University System of Maryland Foundation, Inc. to benefit the Maryland Eastern Shore Women's Basketball Program.
