In an effort to help the girl’s swim raise money, each attendee is invited to test drive a car and in return the team will receive $20.
After last year’s winning 7–3 record, the Moorestown High School girls swim team hopes to continue its success heading into the new school year. Yet, before they jump back in the pool, the girls will be coming together to host their 3rd Annual Holman Lincoln/Ford Drive 4 UR School fundraising event on Friday, Oct. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the high school.
To help the girls raise money, each attendee is invited to test drive a car, and in return the team will receive $20. Although only one person per household who is 18 years of age or older is eligible, each participant can test drive up to two cars — contributing $40 to the team. Each person is also allowed to test drive a new 2017 Ford Escape for an additional $10.
“We have had a tremendous amount of success with this fundraiser. The team, the school and the community have been very supportive,” John Battersby, fifth-year varsity girls swimming head coach, said.
Battersby recalled coming up with the idea for the girls team to host this fundraiser after seeing another school hold one and thinking it was a great idea. According to Battersby, this is something each Ford and/or Lincoln dealership does once or twice a year, but Battersby and the swim team has created a strong relationship with Fred Muller and his team at Holman Lincoln/Ford of Maple Shade.
“Personally, I love this event. It is a great way to promote the program,” Battersby said. “The team obviously benefits from each test drive and the donation from Holman Ford/Lincoln of Maple Shade. The community benefits because it provides everyone an opportunity to support the program.”
At the fundraiser, the senior swimmers will act as hosts for those participating and will sign up each participant to ensure they have filled out the proper paperwork. The girls will then let the participants know when their car is ready to be driven.
This year, he and the team hopes to raise $4,000 and use the proceeds to purchase new swim suits. Additionally, the team plans to hold a fundraising night at Panchero’s Mexican Grill and a cookie dough sale in late November or early December to raise money for new team warm-up suits.
“Besides test driving a car or two, this is a unique event because it allows community members to come out to the school, meet the seniors and talk to them about their swim experiences,” Battersby said. “Additionally, we always schedule this event to coincide with a home football game. So, after you test drive, come and cheer on the football team as they take on Hightstown High School at 7 p.m.”
