In support of student-athletes

TopCat Club donors go ALL IN for Wildcat Athletics

Nearly 600 student-athletes competed as part of Linfield University’s 23 intercollegiate teams and spirit program last year. That means that approximately 45% of students at the McMinnville campus donned a Wildcat uniform. In addition to their classes, these student-athletes ran, jumped, sprinted, swam and grappled. 

Thanks to the support of TopCat Club members, Linfield can provide competitive athletic programs and a top-notch educational experience for all of these students. The TopCat Club, supported by donations from individuals and businesses, accounts for 30-35% of Linfield’s yearly athletic budget. 

“We want to do everything we can to elevate Linfield Athletics and enrich the experience of the Linfield University student-athlete,” said Garry Killgore, professor and director of athletics. “Donors who give to the TopCat Club truly maximize success for all sports at Linfield.” 

The TopCat Club debuted in the mid-1980s as a way for donors to support student-athletes. While donations made to specific teams directly benefit the student-athletes in that program, gifts made to the TopCat Club support projects that benefit all Linfield student-athletes or that may not be funded otherwise. In the last five years, the TopCat Club has raised more than $1.7 million to support student-athletes at the university.  

One example is the hiring of Ella Riddle Maliska ’18 as the director of sports performance in 2022. Riddle Maliska had previously been splitting her time as head coach of Linfield’s women’s tennis team and as a part-time strength and conditioning coach. Funds provided by the TopCat Club allowed the athletic department to transform her role into a full-time position committed to sport performance and student-athlete well-being. She now works with all of Linfield’s sport teams and the strength and conditioning coaches to develop comprehensive plans for athlete wellness.  

“Linfield athletes are very lucky to have Ella,” said Kami Echiverri ’25, an exercise science major and a member of the Linfield women’s soccer team. “Not a lot of schools can say they have a coach that individualizes athlete plans based on sports, injury and workload. She supports us in the weight room and on the field, so we can compete at our best.”  

Throughout its nearly 40-year history, the TopCat Club has provided financial support for many initiatives and projects, including new uniforms, coaching salaries, facility improvements, COVID-19 testing equipment and travel assistance for teams competing in post-season events.  

“The TopCat Club benefits every student-athlete in every sport,” Killgore said. “This support – whether from making a one-time donation, setting up a recurring gift or including it in your estate plan – makes a lasting and direct impact on the educational and athletic experience of our student-athletes.”