GREENSBORO, N.C. – In 1986, the opening page of the Spartan Excellence Fund's first brochure declared, "A New Era Begins."

Forty years later, that vision continues through what is now the Spartan Club, the fundraising arm of UNCG Athletics. Throughout the 2026-27 academic year, the Spartan Club will celebrate its 40^th anniversary by highlighting the generosity that has made a lasting impact on student-athletes while encouraging continued investment in the future of UNCG Athletics.

Founded in 1986 as the Spartan Excellence Fund, the organization was created to generate private philanthropic support as UNCG Athletics pursued excellence and competitive success. The Spartan Club has grown alongside UNCG Athletics, funding scholarships, team operations, endowments and other priorities that benefit more than 230 Spartan student-athletes across 17 varsity programs. Those contributions also helped support UNCG Athletics through one of the most significant milestones in department history—its transition from NCAA Division III to Division I.

During the last six fiscal years alone, the Spartan Club has generated more philanthropic support than during the previous 34 years combined. Annual fundraising has grown from $44,106 in 1986 to more than $2.27 million during 2025-26, while 65 athletic endowments now total more than $17 million.

"The Spartan Club has helped shape generations of UNCG student-athletes, and its impact has never been more important than it is today," said Director of Athletics Brian Mackin. "As we mark this 40th anniversary, we also recognize that the continued investment of our Spartan community remains essential to delivering an outstanding student-athlete experience and positioning UNCG Athletics for continued success."

Former UNCG Director of Athletics Nelson Bobb, who helped establish the Spartan Excellence Fund in 1986, reflected on how far it has come.

"The vision in 1986 was to create an organization dedicated to enhancing the student-athlete experience by providing financial support for scholarships," added Bobb. "The growth over the last 40 years has been exceptional, both financially and in the number of contributing members."

Over the years, the Spartan Club has brought together alumni, fans and friends around a shared commitment to Spartan student-athletes. From the very beginning, donors were called upon to become "the team behind the teams." As the Spartan Club celebrates its 40^th anniversary, that call remains just as meaningful today.

Supporters are invited to commemorate the milestone by making a gift to UNCG Athletics. Examples include making a first-ever gift of $40, starting a recurring monthly gift of $40 or increasing annual giving by 4% or 40%.

To make a gift in recognition of the Spartan Club's 40th anniversary, click here.