Waitsburg Booster Club Re-Energized 

WAITSBURG—Twenty-four years ago, the Waitsburg Booster Club was formed. Ross Hamann was elected president and has continued in the role over the years. Even though the club lost momentum about five years ago, Hamann and 12-year veteran treasurer Becky Harshman kept the club alive as they knew “this club will come back!” 

About thirty supporters met on Monday, February 7, to get the Booster Club active again. Hamann started the meeting by giving the group a brief review of the club’s history, current status, and a treasury update. 

When the club was active, it received grants for projects, including the press box at the football field. Banners were purchased and hung in the gym, kids had funds for camp, uniforms were bought for the band, and crossing guard vests were purchased by the club.

The club also raised funds selling Cardinal-branded items such as license plate frames, blankets, and stadium seat cushions. Money raised by the club goes to support the kids of Waitsburg.

Hamann and Harshman have maintained the club’s 501(c)(3) status and kept the bills paid in anticipation of the club being revived. The meetings are held on the first Tuesdays of the month, and the election of officers and board members will soon be on the agenda. President Hamann has set two goals for the group, forming a committee to review the bylaws and starting a membership drive.

Hamann had suggested that the school’s Cardinal mascot should have a name, and Mrs. Groom’s leadership class challenged students to nominate their favorites. The student body voted, and the winning name for the mascot was Reggie. A new Cardinal uniform will be purchased for Reggie.

Members of the Booster Club have identified a culture change due to students increased use of cell phones and video games. Members will work to change the culture and get students to participate in athletics and clubs.

Booster support can be as simple as membership fees and to help encourage Waitsburg youth to get involved in their school and community. As a Booster Club member, you don’t need to attend meetings or become a club officer. A family membership is $25 for the year. You may send your contribution to Waitsburg Booster Club Treasurer, PO Box 217, Waitsburg, WA 99361.

The next Booster Club meeting will be on Tuesday, March 7, at the Waitsburg High School library.