News Release

Stevens Point Area Public School District

1900 Polk Street

Stevens Point, WI 54481

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CONTACT:            Sarah O’Donnell, director of communications
                              715/343-6629 | sodonnel@pointschools.net 

May 20, 2026

Panthers Back Panthers Event Supports
Student-Athletes Across SPASH and Elementary Programs

Stevens Point, Wis.— Held each fall during the SPASH volleyball season, Panthers Back Panthers continues to make a meaningful impact across SPASH athletics and beyond, with funds from this year’s event supporting multiple athletic programs and student-athletes at both the high school and elementary levels.

Through the generosity of community members, families, supporters, and sponsors, this year’s Panthers Back Panthers event helped fund several important projects and equipment needs, including renovations to the SPASH boys baseball practice field, the addition of new batting cages, new rehabilitation equipment for the athletic training room, backstroke ledges for the boys and girls swimming programs, and volleyballs for the 5th and 6th grade elementary co-ed volleyball programs.

“We are incredibly proud that Panthers Back Panthers continues to support so many student-athletes, not just within the volleyball program, but across SPASH athletics and our elementary programs as well,” said Mackenzie Kyle, SPASH head volleyball coach and Plover-Whiting Elementary physical education teacher. “It is exciting to see the support from our community directly benefit multiple athletic programs and create opportunities for athletes at all levels.”

“The primary objective of education-based athletics is to foster human development and personal growth,” said Dave Hauser, SPASH athletic director. “Panthers Back Panthers is a strong example of this mission in action and what makes SPASH athletics and our community so special. When families, coaches, athletes, and community supporters come together in support of our programs, the impact extends far beyond one team or one season. These contributions strengthen resources, enhance opportunities, and ultimately help us better fulfill the purpose of education-based athletics by creating meaningful and well-rounded experiences for all student-athletes across our district.”

The event reflects the strong connection between SPASH athletics, students, families, and the broader Stevens Point community. By supporting facility improvements, training resources, and athletic equipment, Panthers Back Panthers helps ensure students have access to meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, compete, and build confidence through athletics.

This year’s funded projects include:

• SPASH Boys Baseball: Practice field renovations and new batting cages

• Athletic Training Room: New rehabilitation equipment

• SPASH Boys and Girls Swimming: Backstroke ledges to support both programs

• 5th/6th Grade Elementary Co-ed Volleyball: Volleyballs for student use during practices and the season

The Stevens Point Area Public School District extends its gratitude to everyone who helped make this year’s Panthers Back Panthers event a success. The continued support of the community strengthens opportunities for student-athletes and helps build a lasting foundation for Panther pride.

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CUTLINE: SPASH volleyball players celebrate during the annual Panthers Back Panthers event, held each fall during the volleyball season. Funds raised through this year’s event supported multiple athletic programs across SPASH, as well as 5th and 6th grade elementary co-ed volleyball programs.  (Photo/SPASH Volleyball)