NORTHFIELD, Vt. - The ninth annual Norwich University Maroon & Gold Challenge will return Monday, Nov. 9 through Friday, Nov. 13, bringing alumni, families, friends, and supporters together for five days of giving in support of Norwich Athletics.

This year's campaign carries a goal of $175,000 and 1,500 donors, with donors able to direct their gifts to the varsity team, athletic program, or department area of their choice.

The Maroon & Gold Challenge has grown into one of Norwich Athletics' largest annual fundraising efforts, providing programs with additional resources that directly support the student-athlete experience.  Gifts help fund needs that can include team travel, equipment and apparel, facility enhancements, training resources, and other opportunities beyond regular operating budgets.

The 2025 Challenge generated $147,671 from 1,134 donors across Norwich Athletics.

Men's lacrosse led all programs with 181 donors during last year's campaign, followed by baseball with 147 and women's lacrosse with 134.  Swimming & diving also surpassed 100 donors with 122.

Baseball led Norwich Athletics in total dollars raised last year with $24,105, followed by men's ice hockey at $19,510 and men's lacrosse at $14,397.  Women's ice hockey raised $9,370, swimming & diving collected $8,678, and the Maroon Mat Club wrestling program finished with $8,210.

The breadth of last year's participation extended well beyond those programs.  Gifts were made across Norwich's varsity teams and support areas, including Athletic Training, Strength & Conditioning, and general athletics, allowing donors to support the part of the department most meaningful to them.

That support returns in 2026 under the campaign hashtag #AlwaysACadet, reflecting the connection Norwich alumni, former student-athletes, families, and friends maintain with the University long after their time on the Hill.

Throughout the week, supporters will be able to follow the campaign's progress and see how individual Norwich programs are performing as the department works toward its $175,000 goal.

Gifts of all sizes make an impact, and supporters are encouraged to share the campaign with former teammates, classmates, family members, and fellow members of the Norwich community throughout the five-day Challenge.

The 2026 Maroon & Gold Challenge begins Monday, Nov. 9, and runs through Friday, Nov. 13.

Those wishing to support Norwich Athletics can visit the Maroon & Gold Challenge giving page to make a gift and follow campaign progress.

#AlwaysACadet