News Release

Panthers Back Panthers Returns September 29 to Support SPASH Programs

Stevens Point, Wis. — SPASH Volleyball will host its third annual Panthers Back Panthers event on Tuesday, Sept. 29, as the Panthers take on Eau Claire Memorial at SPASH.

Created to extend the impact of Panther athletics beyond a single team, Panthers Back Panthers raises funds to help SPASH programs meet needs beyond their regular budgets. Through the support of local businesses, families and community members, the event has helped provide equipment, facility improvements and additional opportunities for student-athletes across the district.

“Panthers Back Panthers has become something our volleyball program is incredibly proud of because the impact reaches well beyond our own athletes,” said Mackenzie Kyle, SPASH head volleyball coach and Plover-Whiting Elementary physical education teacher. “It is an opportunity for our students to see what it looks like to support one another, while our community comes together to strengthen opportunities for Panthers across multiple programs.”

Last year, funds raised through Panthers Back Panthers supported renovations to the SPASH boys baseball practice field and new batting cages, rehabilitation equipment for the athletic training room, backstroke ledges for the boys and girls swimming programs, and volleyballs for the district’s fifth- and sixth-grade co-ed volleyball programs.

“Education-based athletics is about much more than competition,” said Dave Hauser, SPASH athletic director. “Events like Panthers Back Panthers demonstrate the kind of community, leadership and connection we want students to experience through athletics. The generosity behind this event creates opportunities across programs and helps us continue providing meaningful experiences for student-athletes.”

The Sept. 29 event begins with JV3 and JV2 matches at 4:15 p.m., followed by JV1 at 5:30 p.m. and varsity at 7 p.m. JV3 will compete on the SPASH South Court, with JV2, JV1 and varsity on the SPASH Main Court.

This year’s event is supported by more than 30 community sponsors, whose contributions help Panthers Back Panthers continue expanding its impact across SPASH programs.

“We are grateful for every business, family and community member who chooses to invest in our students,” Kyle said. “That support is what makes this event possible.”

Community members are invited to attend the Sept. 29 matches, support SPASH Volleyball and celebrate the Panther community coming together to back Panthers.

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