Five years ago, we started our first TSL Fundraising Challenge. We called it "Poppin’ It" after noticing that the team used that term regularly – whether a pitcher was dealing, a batter was going “BOOM,” or there was even a great defensive play. Everyone that participated that season got a cool Poppin’ It magnet and the best thing was that we raised over $21,000 for the softball program. Poppin’ It served as the springboard for subsequent fundraising drives via TSL – drives that have raised a cumulative total in excess of $360,000 for the softball program since then. One of our regular donors reached out this weekend and suggested we “run it back” with quite the caveat – he would match the first $20,000 we raised. That’s right – this donor will match the first $20,000 we raise via Poppin’ It. And if we hit that threshold, we may even raise the match! And we are bringing back those cool Poppin’ It magnets as well. You can get one for simply making a pledge. So pick a stat – it could be wins (43 last year), home runs (112), strikeouts (382), stolen bases (37), or any other stat that is tracked. You can also include postseason accomplishments as well. Or if you simply want to make a one-time donation, that will be doubled as well (we already have a $300 contribution which equals $600 when doubled). Checks should be made out to The Virginia Tech Athletic Fund - Softball and mailed to me at the address below. Either respond with your pledges by either sending me an e-mail ([email protected]) or a text (540-797-8155). Please include your mailing address so we can send you a magnet. Let’s Go Hokies!!!! Let’s start Poppin’ It!!!! We have always used the honor system to collect at the end of the season, with folks making their checks out to The Virginia Tech Athletic Fund - Softball and mailing to me at Chip Grubb 8155 Bent Mountain Road Roanoke, VA 24018 Thanks for your support. ** Edited by VTChip at 1/28/2026, 10:11:02 AM ** Edited by Will Stewart at 1/30/2026, 10:55:09 AM