Others choose to operate concession stands at the football games to add to their clubs' coffers. The newest trend in club fundraising is the use of the vast alumni network Penn State offers. With 10 percent of the student population at University Park involved in club sports, there is a large amount of alumni who at one point were members of club teams. Several clubs form prospect lists of alumni who participated in their sport, then send letters reminding them that part of their donation to the university can include a gift to their favorite club activity. Dues are another way teams supplement the money needed to support their programs.
Every program requires members to pay a fee to play, compete or receive instruction.
Roth said he is pleased with the support the club programs receive from the Athletic Department. Though club sports are apportioned significantly less funding than varsity sports, it is in proportion to the amount of services provided to the students. Varsity sports have a need for paid coaches and trainers whereas club teams rely on volunteer faculty, staff and members of the community to assist the programs. Many club teams also are supported by an advisor to aid in coaching recruitment, scheduling and to ensure continuity in the level of participation and competition from year to year. One third of the teams have advisors.