In a comprehensive effort to right-size its Athletics Department due to budgetary, Title IX and Mountain West Conference alignment considerations, University of New Mexico President Garnett S. Stokes and Director of Athletics Eddie Nuñez released a series of recommendations today for Board of Regents’ approval. The proposal, a result of a Board directive in April to reduce a budget deficit, includes recommendations for new revenue opportunities, expense cutting measures and a reduction in the number of varsity sports programs.   

Stokes and Nuñez will formally present the recommendations to the UNM Board of Regents for approval at a special meeting Thursday, July 19 at 9 a.m. in Student Union Ballrooms A & B.

“The University is faced with very difficult decisions and tough choices, but we must act now to ensure the long-term stability of Lobo Athletics,” said Stokes. “Regrettably, the recommendations do include a reduction in sports, the least desirable measure but one that will help alleviate our financial concerns and work towards putting us in compliance with federal law.”

Men’s and women’s skiing, men’s soccer and beach volleyball are the four sports slated to be discontinued effective July 1, 2019. UNM will honor the scholarships of the affected student-athletes through their graduation. In addition, UNM is recommending a roster management plan be instituted for men’s cross country, men’s indoor and outdoor track, and the modification of the swimming and diving program, phasing out diving.

“Our student-athletes are talented, dedicated young men and women,” said Stokes. “The recommendation to discontinue sports weighs heavily on me.”

For a copy of the report visit: UNM Athletics Analysis and Review

For list of FAQs visit: UNM FAQs Regarding Athletics Recommendations