KUSA - It never hurts to apply.  Just ask Jennifer Anderson, Ashley Martinez and Lauren Quintana.  Their applications for grant money from Muscle Milk were among 600 nationwide applications... and they were chosen. 

CytoSport, maker of the recovery drink Muscle Milk, recently announced the 22 high school athletic programs that will receive grants this year as part of the Muscle Milk Recovery Grant Program.  In all $250,000 in grants were given to help rebuild and revitalize high school athletic programs, including ones at Columbine, Denver West and Northglenn High Schools.

Jennifer Anderson, a Columbine High School mom and booster submitted an application to update the school's track and field facilities.  The Rebels will receive an $11,000 grant.  Head Track Coach Ivory Moore says the funds will be used for a make-over, with a particular focus on upgrades to the shot and disc throwing areas, triple-jump and pole vault.  CHS has never been able to host pole vaulting during competitions due to lack of proper equipment, so the grant will help provide safe mats, pads and equipment for training and competition.

At Denver West High School, Cheer coach Ashley Martinez wanted a safer area for her cheer and dance teams.  The school will recieve a $4500 grant to provide upgrades to the school's indoor workout/dance room used in the day for regular classes and for practices by the cheerleaders and the wrestling team later in the afternoon.  The floor is slippery and unsafe for any kind of proper training/dancing, so the funds will help provide a safe place to learn and play. 

Northglenn High School pitcher Lauren Quintana knew her team was on a very limited budget ($800) and requested a grant to help the Norsemen.  According to Varsity Head Softball Coach Stacey Sterne, the $2000 grant will help provide repairs to their mower so the field grass can be cut appropriately, allow the teams to purchase new bats and provide matching uniforms to help the team feel united and cohesive.

"We have been amazed by the tremendous stories that have been told through the grant applications," said CytoSport Chief Marketing Officer Nikki Brown. "Whether the recipient school needs updated uniforms, safe workout equipment or upgraded facilities, one of the major themes within every application is the sense of pride that will be instilled with each grant. We are so excited to be able to assist in the development of these student-athletes and provide a brighter future for these athletic programs across the country."

For more information on the Muscle Milk Recovery Grant Program visit their Facebook page. 

 

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