With football camp starting next week, the Yellow Jacket Athletic Association (YJAA) is happy to report the results of its inaugural season.
In its first year, the YJAA collected nearly $19,000 in donations, gate revenue and membership dues. The group was able to focus on the purchase of much-needed team uniforms and has set its sights on several wish list items for the 2014-2015 school year.
Started in August 2013, the mission of the YJAA is to provide support to R-MA’s coaches and student-athletes. It promotes school spirit, athletic excellence and quality sportsmanship. YJAA members enjoy free admission to home athletic events, and the knowledge they are helping our students.
The membership dues of its 137 inaugural members combined with more than $1,500 collected as entrance fees at sporting events, R-MA was able to purchase new varsity boys soccer uniforms, girls’ tennis uniforms and a banner for the scorer’s table, used during volleyball, basketball, wrestling and any other indoor event.
“We also are looking at purchasing baseball uniforms this summer and making improvements to the softball and baseball infields in the fall,” noted R-MA Athletic Director Frank Sullivan. “On our wish list for next year are new goals for the varsity soccer field and back nets for the lacrosse field.”
Targeted donations to the Yellow Jacket Fund also purchased new lacrosse uniforms, R-MA logo bags for the swimming team, golf shirts and golf bags and a new baseball batting cage.
The YJAA also hosts year-end sports banquets at the Middle School and Upper School, honoring R-MA’s student-athletes.
The Association will kick off its 2014-2015 membership drive during R-MA registration sessions, beginning Monday. Look for the YJAA table at registration, where you can sign up for a membership. You also can join by mailing a check made out to “R-MA YJAA” to 200 Academy Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630, attn: Development Office. Individual memberships are $25 and family memberships are $50.
The current YJAA officers are Bill Curl ’66, Brandy Hudson, Karen McManus, Christine Meyer and Frank Sullivan. For more information, contact Christine Meyer at cmeyer@rma.edu or (540)636-5485.