09/21/12 jgm

HAYS, Kan. -- With more than 450 Tiger fans in attendance, the Third Annual Tiger Auction and Dinner was not only a great way to kick off the 2012-2013 Fort Hays State University athletic season, but more than $175,000 was raised throughout the evening for the Athletic Department.

"This event not only jump starts our season, but it also gives Tigers young and old a chance to engage with old friends, teammates and coaches while supporting the program they hold close to their heart," said Tim Callahan, assistant athletic director.

Just as the dinner portion of the evening was drawing to an end, the Fort Hays Ballroom became filled with more Tiger pride as the FHSU marching band began playing the university's fight song.

The live auction featured 80 of the 300 available items. Whether people were looking for a vacation getaway, work by a local artist or a pontoon party cruise, the auction had something for everyone.

The most successful portion of the night revolved around "Live Auction Item No. 40," which concentrated on some additional needs of the Athletic Department, including purchasing cages and nets for the baseball and softball teams as well as the track and field throwing events inside the Training Facility.

The department raised more than $57,000 of the approximately $60,000 needed through this particular auction item.

"The Tiger Auction and Dinner has rapidly become an outstanding event, not only as a fundraiser for Tiger Athletics, but as a means of unifying our various constituents for a common cause in an enjoyable atmosphere," said Curtis Hammeke, director of athletics at FHSU. "I continue to be amazed and grateful for the support from the many individuals who have worked to make this evening a great success."

The auction was sponsored by the Fort Hays State University Foundation, CERV's, Fox Kansas, Eagle Communications and BOS Motorsports.

The Fourth Annual Tiger Auction and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 24, 2013.