Flight Plan: Student-Athlete Development
03/06/26 | Duck Athletic Fund
Launching Careers. Changing Communities. Building Futures.
At the University of Oregon, providing an exemplary student-athlete experience is something we care deeply about.
Our student-athletes balance demanding academic schedules with the commitment it takes to compete at the highest level. Because of that, many do not have the same time or flexibility as their peers to explore careers, travel internationally, or build professional networks. Through Student-Athlete Development, we work intentionally to create those opportunities for them.
Two of our most impactful initiatives depend on philanthropic support.
Each spring, a select group of Ducks participates in Courts for Kids, an international service experience that allows student-athletes to travel abroad, build sport courts in underserved communities, and gain meaningful cultural perspective. The application process is highly competitive, and each participant contributes financially toward the trip. Oregon Athletics helps subsidize travel and project costs to ensure this opportunity remains accessible.
Each summer, we also lead an annual professional development trip to a major U.S. city. What began in Los Angeles has grown into experiences in San Francisco, Seattle, and now Chicago. Student-athletes meet industry professionals, participate in site visits, and build connections that can shape their futures. These trips provide exposure and access that many of our student-athletes simply would not have otherwise.
These experiences change perspectives. They build confidence. They create momentum beyond sport.
They are also only possible because of support from those who believe in developing the whole student-athlete and helping provide competitive excellence.
A gift to our Student-Athlete Development fund directly impacts global service opportunities and meaningful career exploration experiences for Oregon student-athletes.
We invite you to invest in these life-changing opportunities and help us continue preparing our Ducks for success long after their playing days are over.
Make your gift today and be part of what's next.
Go Ducks!
