The strong tradition of City College of San Francisco Athletics continued during the 2021-22 school year, led by a national championship by the Rams' football team and state title by men's basketball as well as academic success in the classroom.
Thanks to the generous support of the UA Local 38, Plumbers and Pipefitters union, CCSF will look to continue that high level of excellence by its student-athletes on and off the field. On Wednesday, representatives from CCSF met with UA Local 38 President Larry Mazzola Jr. and members of the union to receive a check for $142,688.44 from the proceeds of the UA Local 38's 75th Anniversary and Union Hall grand opening celebration.
In attendance for CCSF were David Martin (Chancellor), John Rizzo (Vice President, Board of Trustees), Alan Wong (Trustee, Board of Trustees), Edie Kaeuper (Dean, School of Health, Physical Education, and Social Services), Justin Labagh (Physical Education Chair/Men's Basketball Head Coach), and Jamie Hayes (Athletic Director).
Local 38 is part of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada, known as the UA. Chartered in 1947, Local 38 currently represents approximately 2,500 members in San Francisco, Marin, Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties.
The support from the union comes at an opportune time. The pandemic has slashed budgets throughout the state with the athletic department at CCSF majorly affected.
"The athletic department's annual fiscal budget has been cut in half with more cuts on the horizon," wrote Labagh in his nomination letter to UA Local 38. "These cuts are depriving many student-athletes of not only a chance at pursuing a four-year college scholarship but also an opportunity to maintain their fitness and physical well-being."
As an administrator and coach, Labagh knows how much these funds will mean to student-athletes at CCSF.
"This is an awesome example of one San Francisco community helping another in times of need," he said.
Despite tough times, Hayes is grateful for the support of the city and college communities.
"The pandemic has been challenging for all," said Hayes. "But through these challenges, I am extremely proud of the support our college has provided our student-athletes. Our coaches, administration, faculty, and classified staff have made a huge impact supporting our student-athletes to continue their education and compete at the highest level of intercollegiate sports in the CCCAA. This generous donation from UA Local 38 adds to the support and feels special because it comes from the community. It is truly special to be a CCSF Ram."
Student-athletes from CCSF will soon be gearing up for the 2022-23 season. Fall sports such as football, men's and women's soccer, women's volleyball, and women's water polo begin practice in August.