When in Need, Go to the Bench

In sports, a good coach knows when it is time to look to the bench for a spark. The same is true for University of Redlands Intercollegiate Athletics, as the Bulldog Bench Athletic Alumni Association helps support its programs.  The Bench, as it is more commonly known, was started in 1971 by then Athletic Director Ted Runner and University of Redlands graduates Joe Cortez and Clay Brooks.

Fundraising Activities
Although it began as a social organization, the Bench has become the largest supporter of Redlands’ intercollegiate athletics, raising funds for the improvement of facilities and other department activities.

Two major events currently take up the bulk of the Bench’s time and resources.  The first is the annual Bulldog Bench Golf Tournament, which raised more than $38,000 last year with the help of major sponsors such as La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries, Hatfield Buick GMC, Jostens, Tilden Coil, Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians and the San Bernardino County Sun.

In addition, the Bulldog Bench Intercollegiate Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Dinner has become a celebration of athletic achievement by some of the finest athletes to ever don the maroon and gray.  The Hall of Fame is overseen by the Hall of Fame Committee, co-chaired by Joe Cortez and Jim Brondino.
 
The Bench continues to help finance endeavors such as the completion of batting cages and the installation of a flag near the baseball and Farquhar Fields. The Bench has also provided monetary gifts to the Fitness Center, Frank R. Serrao Gateway, Ashel Cunningham Track and much more.

Membership 
Membership to the Bench is open to any person who has an interest in the intercollegiate athletic program at the University of Redlands.  For more information on participating in Bench activities or on joining the board, please contact Director of Athletics and Physical Education Jeff Martinez at 909-748-8400.