Fayette, Mo. - The Central Methodist Department of Athletics hosted the 7th annual Celebrating Eagle Athletics Auction Friday, July 14th inside Puckett Field House.
The auction raised a record-high $110,000, of which all proceeds go back to support CMU student-athletes. Over 140 silent auction items and several big-ticket live items were featured including; a weekend in downtown Nashville and a Chiefs football helmet autographed by two-time Super Bowl Champion Chris Jones.
The night began with a special recognition for Dr. Roger Drake, who celebrated his 10th year as President of Central Methodist University. Under Dr. Drake's leadership, athletics has garnered 190 NAIA All-Americans, 32 team conference championships, and four team national championships.
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of a gift commitment in honor of Larry Anderson '67, for his 40 plus years of service to CMU, including as head football coach, Athletic Director, Director Admissions and faculty member. The funds from this commitment will help with renovations to the football, soccer, and track & field facilities. The project highlights include; adding seating on the east side of the complex, upgrading the soccer field to meet NAIA regulations for national championship postseason play, and relocating the track and making improvements to the adjacent Alexander practice fields.
These improvements to the outdoor facilities will enhance the experiences of the fans as well as Central's student-athletes and, in turn, attract more students to Central and ensure enrollment stays strong in the coming years.
The night also featured a student-athlete Q&A session with current CMU student-athletes, volleyball and track & field athlete, Delaney Miller, men's basketball player, Thomas Sowoolu, and baseball player Tanner Sears. The trio discussed their time as student-athletes at Central and had an opportunity to give thanks to supporters in attendance.
The live auction was hosted by Dick Hutchison '83, and Dick Hutchison Auction and Real Estate LLC.
"The Eagles Athletic Auction has become one of the most amazing events at Central," stated Director of Athletics Jeff Sherman '83. "We continue to grow and capitalize on the many wonderful relationships in our community. This highly popular event is most instrumental in supplying additional revenue to enhance the athletic and educational success of our student athletes. This year's auction was another Eagle victory. To view the photo gallery from the evening, please click here.
**Pictured from left-right - President Roger Drake, Robert Anderson, Larry Anderson '67, and Dr. Nancy Peacock '82
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