Why was the association created?

 

Soon after Coach Dave Wheelock resigned from coaching numerous changes in coaching positions, club officers and school admissions. Thus, many alumni and school administration relations have been disconnected. After the teams national championship run, a few guys gather to step-in during the transition of new Coach Jason Oliphant to support New Mexico Tech Rugby future by:

 

• Sustainable finances

• Club traditions

• Competitive on pitch

• Opportunities for student-athletes  interested in rugby

•  Grow alumni communication

 

Why does New Mexico Tech Rugby need an Alumni Association?

 

While the schools 49ers tradition has been the clubs biggest alumni event and resource to raise funds through auction in order support operating cost. As rugby grows at the collegiate level and the team grows in competitiveness, operating costs rise and will continue to rise. Today, students are increasingly choosing universities (specifically, NMT) with previous rugby experience. Unlike the time when campus recruiting was the main source to fill roster, high school and international recruiting has been a key resource. 

 

As the team's appearance on The Rugby Network for Collegiate National Championships for 7s and 15s, it's important the team is able to represent the New Mexico Tech brand.

 

This transition involves:

• New Mexico Tech has taken interest in how rugby can bring pride and excitement to the University.

• NMT Rugby ability to retain committed student-athletes and coaches, long-term, with professionalism of the organization.

• Tuition paying parents want a high level program that reflects their students abilities and interest.

• As key sponsors and donors contribute significantly, they expect and deserve to see stability and consistently in the program.

 

Simply, we alumni have great pride and experiences greater than most and it's our duty to proactively and cooperatively work together to amplify the program in a positive, productive, and coordinated manner. 

 

What is the Alumni Association working on?

 

The Association is brand new, and its first efforts are:

 

• Build an accurate and effective list of 100+ rugby alumni.

• Establish bylaws for our role and relationship with club, university administration, and New Mexico Tech Foundation.

• Work with new coach and Club officers to create a vision and sustainable foundation for the future.

• Planning and participation for a major endowment campaign through solicit funding and membership dues.

• Organize rugby alumni gatherings and events.