Pocatello, Idaho — Idaho State University Athletics' annual Prepare To Roar fundraising campaign once again demonstrated the strength of Bengal Nation, generating more than $1.2 million from more than 635 donors during the 2026 campaign and surpassing its $900,000 fundraising goal.
Now in its seventh year, Prepare To Roar remains one of the most important annual fundraising initiatives for Idaho State Athletics. Every gift helps provide resources that enhance the student-athlete experience and support the continued development of Bengal programs. Funds raised through the campaign can be directed toward individual teams and priority areas, including nutrition, academic support, sports performance, equipment, scholarships, cost-of-attendance assistance, and other critical student-athlete needs.
The campaign once again featured a broad range of giving opportunities, allowing donors to support Idaho State's NCAA Division I programs as well as strategic impact funds. Several areas saw particularly strong support throughout the campaign, with the Quarterback Club (Football), Baseline Club (Men's Tennis), On Deck Circle (Softball), Caddie Club (Women's Golf), Match Point Club (Volleyball), and Winged Foot Club (Cross Country and Track & Field) all surpassing their respective fundraising goals.
The Winged Foot Club and Match Point Club led all campaign areas in donor participation, with 120 and 117 contributors, respectively.
Beyond the dollars raised, the campaign represents something equally important: Bengal Nation's continued willingness to invest in the people who wear the Idaho State uniform. Each contribution, regardless of size, helps create opportunities for student-athletes to compete, develop, and succeed both in competition and in the classroom.
The 2026 campaign builds on the remarkable growth Prepare To Roar has experienced since its launch, surpassing its annual fundraising goal for the seventh consecutive year while continuing to see strong participation from Bengal supporters. Year after year, Idaho State fans, alumni, families, and friends have demonstrated that the success of Bengal Athletics is a shared commitment — one that extends far beyond the playing surface and reaches into classrooms, training facilities, locker rooms, and communities throughout the region.
"This unique campaign has become such an important part of doing our best for Bengal student-athletes," said Idaho State Director of Athletics Pauline Thiros. "I am so grateful for the way our alumni, fans, and Bengal families continue to step up and lift up the programs they love. Every gift supports the performance, wellness, and overall experience of our student-athletes. Bengal Nation is very special!"
"Prepare To Roar is a powerful reminder of what is possible when Bengal Nation comes together," said Crew Keller, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development and External Relations. "The generosity of our donors directly impacts our student-athletes and provides resources that help our coaches build successful programs. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who chose to invest in Idaho State Athletics during this campaign and be part of the future we are building together."
Did you miss out on supporting the campaign but still want to make a difference? View the Bengal Athletics annual giving page, here. For information about supporting a specific Idaho State program, establishing a matching gift, or exploring other opportunities to invest in Bengal Athletics, contact Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development and External Relations Crew Keller at crewkeller@isu.edu or (208) 220-4773.
