Coaches Role on the Team to Win Major Gifts
Sep 17
1 min read
In this recurring “Focus on Fundraising” column in August 2026, Penry contends that coaches must become active in the major gift fundraising process because top donors increasingly view athletics investments like business investments, demanding a clear vision, competitive plan, and confidence from the head coach.
The article offers four practical principles: treat major donors like top recruits, build relationships through consistent small touches, clearly articulate an investable plan for winning, and own failures rather than avoiding donors when things go wrong.