Western Illinois University Athletics

Western Illinois University Athletics announced the Leathernecks March On initiative, which utilizes the popular verbiage from “We’re Marching On”, the WIU Fight Song, in November 2020. The goal of Leathernecks March On is to increase Leatherneck Club participation to 800 members, and to give those members the opportunity to support WIU student-athletes as they navigate through the challenges of COVID-19. The mission of the initiative is to uplift and unite Western Illinois University and the surrounding campus community, including the city of Macomb, during unprecedented times for all.
  
Throughout the initiative, WIU Athletics will highlight the accomplishments of past and present student-athletes, coaches, and staff. Additional community engagement opportunities, academic achievements, and program spotlights will be part of the Leathernecks March On initiative.

“This year has been extremely challenging, and we’ve been doing everything in our power to be fiscally responsible during the pandemic,” said Director of Athletics Danielle Surprenant. “Now we need your help. The Leathernecks March On initiative is critical to the future of WIU Athletics.”
 
Leatherneck Club
The financial ramifications of COVID-19 have already impacted the university and athletic department, and that will continue in the coming months. Those impacts range from testing costs, personal protective equipment, pandemic safety protocols, loss of ticket revenue, and more.
 
The Leatherneck Club has always been crucial to the success of Leatherneck Athletics. Gifts to the Leatherneck Club will now help lessen the severity of the impact COVID-19 has presented to student-athletes, facilities, and the fan experience. With funds raised from this initiative through the Leatherneck Club, WIU Athletics will continue to provide a first-class experience to its student-athletes, and provide additional support during these trying times.
 
For more information, please contact the Leatherneck Club by phone at (309) 298-1190 or make your gift online at wiu.edu/LeathernecksMarchOn.

The "Leathernecks March On" name is in reference to the university fight song - "We’re Marching On" whose lyrics are:

We are marching on 'neath the Purple and Gold;
We are singing a song that will never grow old.
All the Sons and Daughters of Western, today, go marching on.
W-E-S-T-E-R-N Yea! Western
Hail to Western, true and loyal,
We are here to win this day.
When you see those conqu'ring heroes
Marching down the way (Rah! Rah! Rah!)
Ev'ry heart and voice will sing this melody of vict'ry's song:
Fling out the Purple and the Gold, We're Marching On.

Frequently Asked Questions:
 
Q: What will the money be used for?
A: To cover the extra costs endured because of Covid-19, including Covid-19 testing, PPE, and other safety precautions to keep our student-athletes, coaches, and staff members safe.
 
Q: Is my gift tax deductible?
A: Yes, your gift is 100% tax deductible, but we always encourage all donors to consult with a tax professional.
 
Q: Will I still receive my Leatherneck Club benefits?
A: Yes, those making gifts to the Leatherneck Club through June 30, 2022 will receive benefits for the 2022-2023 academic/athletic year. 
 
Q: How long is this initiative?
A: The Leathernecks March On initiative will run through June 30, 2022.
 
Q: Can I give to a specific sport and the Leathernecks March On initiative?
A: Absolutely! While we know that we are all facing tough times, we encourage you to give to this initiative in addition to your regular annual gift to a program or department.
 
Q: Is there an alternative way to make a gift to the Leathernecks March On initiative aside from online?
A: Yes! In addition to making a gift on the website, you may also do so over the phone by calling 309-298-1190, or by mailing a check. Make checks out to The Leatherneck Club and mail to: WIU Athletics, 1 University Circle, Macomb, IL 61455.