As offseason preparation continues for many of the UNM Athletic programs, the department wasn’t short on announcements this week. Here’s a look at the news coming out of the Lobo locker rooms.
Track and Field Programs Garner USTFCCCA All-Academic Honors
The UNM track and field programs have been recognized for their academic excellence by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). Both the men’s and women’s teams were named USTFCCCA All-Academic Teams for the 2023-24 academic year. This honor is a testament to the athletes’ dedication to balancing their rigorous academic and athletic commitments. Additionally, nine individual Lobos were honored for their exceptional academic achievements. These include:
- Katie Green
- Lucy Harris
- Justin Jones
- Sarah Martinez
- Henry Miller
- Jenna Roberts
- Aaron Smith
- Clara Thompson
- Emma Williams
Their hard work and perseverance have made the university proud and set a high standard for future athletes.
Enchantment vs. Lobo Alumni Exhibition Game
Anticipation is building for the Enchantment vs. Lobo Alumni exhibition game, scheduled for Tuesday night. This game promises to be an exciting clash between former Lobos, bringing together past stars to relive their glory days on the court. Fans are eager to see their favorite alumni back in action, and the game is expected to be a memorable event for the UNM community.
Doors open at 4:30 pm, with an autograph session for fans at 4:45 pm. Local youth all-star teams will be on the court beginning at 5:00 pm. Players from The Enchantment and Team Douglas will compete in a 3-point contest and slam dunk contest at 6:30 pm, prior to the start of the exhibition game at 7:00 pm. Tickets for the event are on sale now at GoLobos.com/tickets.
Volleyball Schedule Announced for 2024 Season
The UNM volleyball team has officially released its schedule for the 2024 season, which features a competitive lineup of matches that are sure to challenge and excite both the players and fans. The season kicks off with a series of away games before the Lobos return home to host several crucial matchups. The schedule includes notable games against conference rivals and out-of-conference powerhouses, providing the team ample opportunity to showcase their talent and strive for a successful season.
Non-Conference Highlights
- August 30-31: The season kicks off with the Lobos participating in the annual Wildcat Classic, hosted by the University of Arizona in Tucson. They will face Arizona, Texas Tech, and Loyola Marymount in a series of competitive matches.
- September 6-7: The Lobos travel to Los Angeles for the Trojan Invitational, where they will take on USC, Pepperdine, and UC Irvine.
- September 13-14: UNM hosts the Lobo Invitational, welcoming teams like New Mexico State, Northern Arizona, and UTEP to Albuquerque for a thrilling weekend of volleyball.
Conference Play
- September 19: The Lobos begin their Mountain West Conference play on the road against San Diego State.
- September 21: The team continues their road trip with a match against UNLV.
- September 26: The Lobos return home to face Boise State, followed by a match against Utah State on September 28.
- October 3-5: A challenging week as the Lobos head to Colorado to face Air Force and Colorado State.
- October 11: A crucial home game against conference rival Wyoming.
- October 17-19: The Lobos hit the road again to battle Nevada and San José State.
- October 24-26: They host Fresno State and close out the month with a match against San Diego State.
- November 1: The Lobos face off against UNLV at home.
- November 7-9: They travel to Utah to play Utah State and Boise State.
- November 14: The final home game of the regular season against Colorado State.
- November 16: The Lobos wrap up the regular season with a match at Wyoming.
Football Media Day: Bronco Mendenhall Takes Center Stage
UNM Head Football Coach Bronco Dylan Mendenhall recently represented the Lobos at the Mountain West Media Day, held on July 11. Mendenhall took center stage, discussing the team’s preparation for the upcoming season and the goals they aim to achieve. His insights and enthusiasm have invigorated fans and heightened anticipation for the fall campaign.
Golf Success: Carson Herron Wins 2024 Minnesota State Open
Carson Herron, a standout member of the UNM golf team, clinched the title at the 2024 Minnesota State Open. Herron’s impressive performance, marked by consistent excellence and strategic play, earned him this prestigious victory. His success not only adds to his personal accolades but also brings honor to the UNM golf program.
Cross Country Schedule for 2024 Released
The 2024 schedule for the UNM cross-country team has been unveiled, outlining a series of meets that will test the endurance and skill of the Lobos. The schedule includes key competitions that will serve as benchmarks for the team’s progress and preparation for championship events. Fans and athletes alike are looking forward to a season filled with competitive spirit and remarkable performances.
Early Season Meets
- August 31: The Lobos start their season with the Lobo Invitational, held in Albuquerque. This meet serves as a great warm-up for the team and an opportunity to gauge early-season fitness.
- September 14: The team travels to Tucson for the Dave Murray Invitational, hosted by the University of Arizona. This meet will feature strong competition from regional and national teams.
Mid-Season Competitions
- September 28: The Lobos head to the prestigious Joe Piane Invitational in South Bend, Indiana, hosted by Notre Dame. This meet is known for its fast course and high-caliber field.
- October 12: UNM competes in the Wisconsin Nuttycombe Invitational in Madison, Wisconsin. One of the most competitive meets of the season, it attracts top teams from across the country.
Championship Season
- October 26: The Mountain West Conference Championships take place in Logan, Utah. The Lobos will compete against their conference rivals with aspirations of capturing the conference title.
- November 9: The NCAA Mountain Region Championships will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah. This meet is critical for qualifying for the NCAA Championships, featuring the best teams from the mountain region.
- November 23: The season culminates with the NCAA Cross Country Championships in Terre Haute, Indiana. The Lobos aim to finish the season strong with top performances at the national level.
Departmental Promotions: May and Nowak
In administrative news, UNM Athletics announced the promotions of two key staff members: Kim May and John Nowak. Their dedication and hard work have been recognized with these well-deserved promotions. Both have been instrumental in the operational success and strategic initiatives of the department, and their new roles are expected to further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of UNM Athletics.