New Mexico Mutual Announces $1 Million Lead Gift Toward New Champions Training Center

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico Mutual, the largest writer of workers’ compensation insurance in New Mexico, has announced a $1 million lead gift to The University of New Mexico Foundation for construction of a new state-of-the-art athletic performance center that will enhance all 18 of UNM’s athletic programs.

The New Mexico Mutual Champions Training Center will be located inside University Stadium beyond the south end zone.  The estimated 10-15,000 square-foot facility will allow for all Lobo teams to have the latest in athletic performance equipment and technology.  The new facility, which will bear the New Mexico Mutual name for the life of the facility, will replace the temporary tented structure that is located next to the Estes Tennis Center and the Maloof Administration Building.

“We are so appreciative of our continued partnership with New Mexico Mutual,” said Director of Athletics Eddie Nuñez. “To have a local company invest in our student-athletes is a game-changer for our programs.  I want to extend my thanks to New Mexico Mutual President & CEO, Norm Becker and incoming CEO, Kellie Mixon, for their strong and continued support of Lobo Athletics.

“We are grateful to have New Mexico Mutual as a partner and excited about the incredible impact they are making on our University and for our student-athletes,” said Sr. Associate A.D./Lobo Club Executive Director Jalen Dominguez.  “It has been a privilege to work with Norm Becker and the full team at New Mexico Mutual. They are a first-class organization that has made a positive impact across our community and will propel Lobo Athletics into the future.”

The New Mexico Mutual Champions Training Center will nearly double the currently existing 8,000 square-foot facility that most Lobo sports utilize for strength and conditioning and athletic performance.  The new facility, thanks to New Mexico Mutual, will allow Lobo student-athletes to not only maximize their time and efforts regarding athletic performance, but it will allow for more student-athletes to work out and rehab efficiently.  The new facility will also enhance UNM’s recruiting profile, showcasing UNM’s continuing efforts to put the health and welfare of its student-athletes at the forefront.

“As a homegrown business, New Mexico Mutual is proud to support New Mexico athletes,” said Norm Becker, president and CEO of the local workers’ compensation insurer. “UNM’s Olympic sports athletes are already a source of pride for New Mexico. With this facility, they’ll be fully equipped to meet their training goals.”

With its emphasis on physical fitness, the Center aligns with New Mexico Mutual’s commitment to the health and well-being of all New Mexicans, as well as its focus on New Mexico’s workforce.

“Fit workers are less likely to injure themselves, and those who do get hurt have faster recoveries with better outcomes,” Becker said.

The New Mexico Mutual Champions Training Center is UNM’s first new facility since the construction of the McKinnon Family Tennis Stadium, which opened in time for the 2014-15 tennis season.  The last update to UNM’s strength and conditioning facilities occurred in August of 2014 when UNM’s weight room inside of the Tow Diehm Football Complex was renovated.

ABOUT NEW MEXICO MUTUAL

New Mexico Mutual is the largest writer of workers’ compensation insurance in New Mexico, providing businesses with quality, cost-effective workers’ compensation coverage for 30 years.  The local company was formed to fill a need in 1991, when workers’ comp insurance was out of reach for many New Mexico businesses. Today New Mexico Mutual has an A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, the world’s largest credit rating agency specializing in the insurance industry. The company provides policyholders with a wealth of safety assistance and resources at no extra cost. For more information, please visit newmexicomutual.com.