Albuquerque, N.M. — The University of New Mexico football team will be donning special helmets on Saturday, October 3 vs. NMSU at 6 p.m. at Branch Field at University Stadium. Lobo athletics has worked with the Zia Pueblo to honor UNM’s past by wearing the Zia symbol on their helmets. The Zia symbol is no stranger to UNM, Lobo football utilized the Zia symbol on their helmets from 1974-79. In addition to the Zia symbol, Lobo football will be breaking out their new anthracite matte helmets.
Zia Pueblo Governor David Pino has expressed his gratitude for the University’s interest in showcasing the symbol and noted, “We understand the love New Mexicans have for the Zia Sun symbol and appreciate the respect UNM gave the Pueblo by asking for permission to use it. We wish everyone would have this respect.”
“Two of most recognized symbols in New Mexico are the Zia Sun and the UNM Lobo,” said UNM President Robert G. Frank. “What a great opportunity to bring these two iconic images together and pay tribute to the rich culture and unique identity that are so much a part of our past and our future.”
“We are proud to wear the Zia Sun symbol on our helmet. Our football team understands all that the Zia represents, and the responsibility that comes with it,” said head coach Bob Davie. “It’s a great way to not only honor our American Indian students, but it ties into our past and our history.”
The design is simple and dates back to the mid to late 1970s. It is the Zia symbol in cherry with silver accents, very similar to what the Lobo football teams actually wore. Lobo greats donning the Zia helmet include Robin Cole, Preston Dennard, Mike Williams, Randy Rich, Bruce Herron and Frank Giddens. The Lobos also wore a white helmet in 1964 and 1965 with a red and white Zia symbol.
Additionally, Lobo football provided 50 tickets to the Zia Pueblo, will be presenting two helmets to Governor David Pinon. The team will also provide Zia Pueblo $3,000 for a scholarship to an American Indian Student from the Zia Pueblo.
The helmets are part of a much larger event on Saturday vs. New Mexico State. Saturday marks UNM’s annual American Indian Night at Lobo Football. UNM Athletics and the UNM American Indian Student Services department work closely throughout the year to host functions at athletic events. Events range from American Indian Night at Football to the annual Nike N7 basketball games.
“UNM’s leadership is conscious of – and remains sensitive to – the fact that the Zia Sun symbol is an integral part of the identity of the Zia people, and is committed to continuing to educate the university community about the tremendous value and significance of respecting tribal protocols and partnerships.” said Pamela Agoyo, Director of American Indian Student Services. “I’m pleased that the Pueblo of Zia has acknowledged UNM’s effort and look forward to strengthening and expanding relationships with all New Mexico tribes.”