Council approves $2,500 community grant for Cougar Booster Club's summer athletics

The McFarland City Council on June 25 approved Resolution No. 2025-88 to authorize up to $2,500 to the McFarland Cougar Booster Club to support student participation in summer athletic events.

Staff said the grant would help athletes attend events including the McFarland Madness basketball tournaments, competitions at Fresno State and Bakersfield College, and the McNeil cross-country event. “The grant request aligns with the goals of the city's community grants program established by council in 2023 to promote community health, youth development, and civic pride,” staff said.

Coach James Davis, boys varsity basketball coach at McFarland High School, said the outings build skills and team camaraderie and help promote McFarland athletes in surrounding areas. Track and cross-country coaches and students also described planned travel: teams expect to fly for out-of-state meets of three to four days, and the cross-country program described plans to attend invitational meets in Texas and other states to expose students to college campuses and broader competition.

Members of the council expressed support for the funding and the student-athletes. “It's a good opportunity for the city to help these groups. I support both of them,” said public speaker Jim White during public comment.

A motion to approve the $2,500 grant carried by roll call: Marion Aye; Vice Mayor Connell Aye; Councilor Gonzalez Aye; Councilor Perez Aye; Councilor Gutierrez Aye. The grant was presented as part of the administrative agenda and staff noted the booster club and school would provide additional support such as transportation and boosters’ fundraising.

Ending — Council members encouraged continued fundraising and community support; staff will disburse the grant per the city's community grants program guidelines.