A $500,000 matching challenge from an anonymous donor will help support the Fisher DeBerry Football Excellence Endowment for the Air Force Academy’s football program, according to a March 11 announcement by the U.S. Air Force Academy Athletic Corporation and the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation.
The initiative aims to encourage more donations by matching individual gifts up to $25,000 dollar for dollar, allowing supporters to increase their impact on the football team’s needs. The endowment was established in fall 2025 to address priorities such as recruiting, coaching staff, facilities, and technology while honoring former head coach Fisher DeBerry.
Since its creation in August 2025, the DeBerry Endowment has received $1.7 million in donations. With the new matching fund in place, organizers hope to reach an initial goal of $2.5 million for the fund. Nathan Pine, Director of Athletics, said: “This gift, and the others it will motivate through the challenge will provide margin of excellence investments and propel our football program to new heights. The opportunity to support Air Force Football and honor Coach DeBerry’s legacy is something our alumni and fans have eagerly rallied behind and I’m so grateful to the entire Air Force community.”
As part of this effort, a statue of Fisher DeBerry will be installed at Falcon Stadium to recognize his career achievements and influence on players and cadets during his 23 seasons as head coach. During that time, DeBerry compiled a record of 169–109–1.
Mark Hille ’97, president and CEO of the Association & Foundation said: “We are thankful for the generous donor who understands the needs of the Air Force Football program and created a way for others to participate and double their impact. The football program will benefit greatly from the consistent support made possible by gifts to the DeBerry Endowment. We’re honored to partner with AFAAC in this important project.” Donors can contribute online or by phone as outlined by organizers.
