University of West Florida Athletics named Greg Shoemaker and Deb Hild its October Donors of the Month. The couple supports the program through financial contributions, photography and attendance at University of West Florida sporting events. Their involvement also includes hosted events for the volleyball team, parents and volleyball boosters.
Shoemaker and Hild grew up in Nebraska and have followed football and volleyball for years. Their daughter and son-in-law are graduates of the University of West Florida. The couple later became friends with the volleyball coach and began attending University of West Florida volleyball matches.
From volleyball fans to active boosters
Attending matches led Shoemaker and Hild to support the volleyball team in several ways. They contributed financially, attended matches and used their shared interest in photography to capture the action. They also developed relationships with athletes, parents and other boosters.
The couple has hosted events for the volleyball team, parents and volleyball boosters. They have attended other University of West Florida sporting events, booster events and award banquets. Shoemaker and Hild have also hosted athletes at their home.
Photography has become another part of their support for University of West Florida Athletics. They have photographed volleyball and softball action at matches and games. They shared the photographs with the university, athletes and their parents.
Support beyond the stands
Shoemaker and Hild said they continue to give annually because they enjoy attending athletic events and interacting with University of West Florida athletes. They also said they get satisfaction from knowing their contributions are appreciated and from watching the athletes compete. Their support combines financial giving with regular involvement in the athletics community.
“We are blessed to be able to give annually to UWF Athletics and we continue to give because we realize how much enjoyment we get by going to athletic events and interacting with the UWF athletes,” they said.
One of the couple’s most memorable experiences came in the summer of 2024. The volleyball team invited them to travel with it in Europe, where they watched international competition. They described the trip as an especially meaningful experience in their support of University of West Florida Athletics.
Students and boosters
About a year before the October 20, 2026 announcement, Shoemaker and Hild became students at the University of West Florida. They take one class per semester through the senior waiver program. That experience added a student connection to their involvement as athletics supporters.
“We love being able to say we are both students and boosters of the University of West Florida,” they said. Their support also reflects their friendships with coaches, athletes and other boosters. They said the high level of competition contributes to their passion for University of West Florida Athletics.
FSB Take
Shoemaker and Hild’s recognition reflects a broad commitment to University of West Florida Athletics. Their support includes giving, attendance, photography, hosted events and relationships with athletes and their families. Becoming University of West Florida students has added another dimension to their connection with the athletics program.
Source: Original report