West Middle School in Montgomery County has $15,000 and a Wii game system from Rack Room Shoes because the physical education teacher entered a national online competition.

The teacher, Stacey Crump, saw the “Save the Athletes Challenge” sponsored by Rack Room Shoes and submitted an application detailing why the school athletes deserved to win, why the program was in need of assistance and the ways the school intended to use the grant.

Through the “Save the Athletes Challenge,” Rack Room Shoes has made a promise to support sports departments and the students that benefit from them.

With budgets being cut at schools around the nation, many athletic programs are suffering.

“We asked our loyal customers and fans what was important to them, and we heard them loud and clear,” said Jan Mauldin, director of marketing for Rack Room Shoes. “By supporting the schools and students in the areas we serve, we are playing a part in strengthening communities. And this is the reason we continue to focus on philanthropic activities each year.”

Crump said she “just did a little write-up on our school and submitted a picture. I chose to focus on West Middle School Athletics overall and not just one of the sports I coach. Most entries were specific sports and not a general athletic program.”

Crump’s efforts paid off to the tune of $15,000.

Assistant Principal Angie Tofflemeyer expressed her appreciation to Crump for going above and beyond to get money for West Middle.

“They may have put me in the picture, but Ms. Crump did all the work,” said Tofflemeyer.

The $15,000 check and Wii game system were presented to West Middle school officials by Rack Room Regional Manager Bryan Gurley.

Crump said the athletic program would really benefit from the grant.

“I appreciate everyone who voted for our school and Rack Room Shoes for offering such a great grant,” she said. “I am very excited that our school was not only awarded the $15,000 but also that we were the top school in the challenge.”