The University of New Mexico football team had a better year than was originally thought, at least financially, and it’s raising some questions about the school’s decision to cut a number of sports.
According to the Albuquerque Fox affiliate, the UNM football program made nearly $1.6 million last year. That news didn’t sit well with attorney Greg Williams, whose son was on the soccer team that was cut because of budget shortfalls.
“Based on that new information, we want to make sure that the regents have a fair opportunity to evaluate that in terms of these programs that were cut last year,” Williams said.
On Monday Williams sent a letter to the UNM Board of Regents, asking school officials to “conditionally reinstate the men’s soccer, beach volleyball and ski teams.”
Williams’ call for reinstatement of the sports comes as the New Mexico legislature considers a bill that would give UNM’s athletic department $2 million in additional funds, contingent on team reinstatement.
University officials say the money won’t fix everything, as the school is also concerned about Title IX compliance.
"Reinstating the sports increases the need for more programmatic support and considerable funding to remain Title IX compliant by investing in existing and additional women's sports,” said UNM athletic director Eddie Nuñez.
