Support UFV’s student athletes on Cascades Giving Day

Whenever Mateo Brazinha steps onto the pitch with the University of the Fraser Valley men’s soccer squad, he’s proud to represent UFV. Each week, the dynamic forward scores more goals — a league-leading 13 strikes in 13 games so far — and his Cascades rack up more wins, marching into the Canada West playoffs.

At home or on the road, Mateo and his teammates exemplify what it means to be a student athlete, and an ambassador for the university.

UFV men’s soccer standout Mateo Brazinha.

“From the second we step on the field, we wear UFV on our sleeves and we wear it with pride,” the fourth-year forward says. “We’re proud to be part of this team, and we’re proud to represent our school.”

On Oct. 29, UFV employees can be ambassadors for the ambassadors, supporting the athletes during the CLIMB to $50,000. CLIMB is a celebration of the Cascades’ commitment to C hasing peak performance, L eading by example, I ncluding and inspiring others, M aking a difference, and B eing all in.

On Cascades Giving Day, student athletes are joined by coaches, alumni, staff, volunteers, and community partners, raising funds to strengthen varsity sports and campus recreation, supporting scholarships, equipment, travel, and more.

“Our student-athletes are exceptional with the work they put in, whether it’s in the weight room or on the court, course, or field,” says Nick Sirski, director of athletics and campus recreation. “They put just as much into their classwork, with a commitment to academic excellence. Cascades Giving Day is a time to rally around them and be part of a movement that helps them reach their full potential.”

Last year, Mateo’s heart soared when he checked social media and saw the UFV community spreading the word online , and he smiled seeing students, faculty, and staff wearing UFV-branded gear (or anything green). This year, you’re invited to snap a photo of yourself with students or colleagues making the heart symbol, include a message of support for the Cascades, and post it to your social media channels. Share your photo using the hashtag #WeClimbWeConquer to show your pride.

Mateo says the athletes notice.

“It was everywhere on social media last year,” he says with a chuckle. “It was really cool to see people wanting us to succeed, and everyone was and is super appreciative.”

Their support, Mateo notes, makes a difference when he competes in games, and impacts every area of his life as a student-athlete.

“Having the UFV community behind us a sign that we’re doing something right,” says Mateo, who studies criminal justice. “People come out because they care, and they support us because they see how much we care too — about competing hard and representing UFV on and off the field.

“We do care about what we do on the field, and more importantly what we do off it as we represent UFV.”

Mateo anticipates seeing the same level of support this year (or even more) on Cascades Giving Day.

“Don’t just do it for athletics, but do it for the school as a whole,” he explains. “The student-athletes don’t just want UFV to compete, we want to win championships, go to nationals, win banners, and bring the reputation and standard of our university to a new level.

“The ambassadors and donations are a way to help us. We know the UFV community wants us to succeed, and this is a great way to show it.

For those wanting to make a gift on Cascades Giving Day, check out fun-filled Challenges , including the UFV Employee Match, where every UFV employee donation of $25 or more will receive a $25 match to leverage your impact.

Learn more and get involved at Give Cascades .