Beyond the game: Medina Boosters drive support for student-athletes

The Medina Athletic Boosters continue to play a vital role in supporting student-athletes and athletic programs across Medina City Schools, as highlighted in their Feb. 23 Board of Education presentation by board members Ken Dworznik and Jim Smigel. The organization focuses not only on athletics, but also on academic achievement, sportsmanship and character development.

Jim Smigel, former MAB president and current at-large representative, said the group’s impact extends beyond the high school level. “We don’t only support the high school athletic programs, we also support the middle school. And when you put that all together, there’s 80 different teams that we support and over 1,200 student athletes,” he said.

Dworznik, vice president of sponsorship, outlined how the organization raises funds. “Two ways that we raise money with the athletic boosters. One is through memberships.” He explained that 80% of membership funds go directly to designated teams, while 20% supports MAB operations, allowing coaches to focus on coaching rather than fundraising. “The second way is through sponsorships,” he said, noting the support of local businesses.

During the 2024-25 school year, MAB made a significant impact through a wide range of initiatives. The group contributed $50,000 to supplement the district’s athletic budget and $20,000 to the Student Council for prom. Additional efforts included funding for the Hoops for Hope initiative, a $25,000 weight room project, and improvements such as new gymnasium pads, updated record boards and campus signage. Safety was also a priority with the purchase of a new AED for athletic training staff.

MAB also invested in equipment and recognition, including baseball and softball wind screens and $10,000 in scholarships awarded to seven seniors. Community-building efforts, such as providing “Swarm” T-shirts for football games and supporting awareness programs like Hope Squad, further demonstrated the organization’s reach.

Looking ahead to the 2025-26 school year, MAB plans another $50,000 contribution to the athletic budget and $20,000 for prom. New projects include an LED sponsor board, stadium signage upgrades and a $20,000 donation toward a soccer stadium project. Additional investments will support multiple sports, including cross-country equipment, boys lacrosse helmets and basketball shooting shirts.

The organization will also continue funding scholarships, providing team state jackets and supporting facility improvements such as an ice machine at Claggett Middle School.

The presentation concluded with thanks to coaches, staff, parents, alumni and community members. Through ongoing support and collaboration, the Medina Athletic Boosters continue to enhance opportunities for student-athletes across the district.