Community support sought for Huskie football program

A fundraising effort for Pawhuska’s High School football program is underway.

“Running a successful program takes a lot of time, energy and money from coaches, players and parents,” said Joe Tillman, the Huskies coach.

Tillman said the community donations will ensure that PHS athletes “have the best resources and equipment available to help them perform at the highest level.”

The coach hopes community members will support the Huskies by contributing to their success.

“We’re on a mission,” said Tillman.

As announced last week, the football drive is attempting to raise $3,000 before the end of July.

Tillman, a longtime local coach of successful elementary league squads, was hired to lead the high school program on June 7. He is the Huskies’ fifth head coach in six seasons.

Pawhuska’s football fundraising is being coordinated through a national sports website: hudl. The Lincoln, Neb.-based site has been sending emails to potential contributors on behalf of Tillman.

The coach’s email provides a link to the PHS donation page, which offers seven levels for contribution ranging from $10 to $200. A video of Huskie football highlights also can be viewed on the hudl’s website, which operates as a sports tech enterprise that provides tools for reviewing game footage.

“Every donation will help,” Tillman said.

Limited practice sessions for the 2016 football season are set to begin Monday, Aug. 8. Full-pad practices start Friday, Aug. 12. PHS will kick off the varsity season on Friday, Aug. 26, at Kellyville. The Huskies’ home opener is Friday, Sept. 9, against the Dewey Bulldoggers.