Philosophy of Eastern New Mexico University Department of Athletics
The intercollegiate athletics program for men and women at Eastern New Mexico University exists to complement the mission and goals of the University. Since athletic activities aid in the intellectual, physical and social development of students, there is an important role for intercollegiate athletics to play at the University.
The intercollegiate athletics program is an integral part of a total program of instruction and recreation while providing opportunities for highly-skilled students to compete against challenging collegiate opponents. In addition, the Athletic Department promotes the physical, emotional, social welfare and intellectual development of student-athletes without regard to differences in gender, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Â Opportunities for the development of student leadership are afforded through structures which govern the program. The Department of Athletics supports equitable opportunity (as defined under Title IX and the Office of Civil Rights) for all student-athletes and staff including women and minorities.
It is important to recognize that a strong athletic program can make a significant contribution to University recognition by the public, students, faculty, staff and alumni. Yet the program must place emphasis on the quality of the experience gained by each participant. Pressure to win without regard to the academic and physical well being of the student athlete must be avoided.
Sportsmanship and attitude are important elements in the total athletic program. Athletes should show respect for fellow participants, opponents, coaches and officials. The University has a responsibility to ensure that staff members of the athletic program and fans of the teams know and exhibit good sportsmanship at events in which University teams are participating.
Participants and staff members are to consider their involvement in the athletic program as an opportunity worthy of their best efforts. The participants’ and coaches’ actions exhibit their commitment to the team and program objectives. Individuals, teams, and coaches involved in the program must recognize that their actions reflect upon the University intercollegiate program, the University and themselves as individuals.
The program is to be conducted under procedures and actions that exhibit sound educational practice. The program is to be administered in accordance with the policies of conferences and other state, regional and national organizations in which the University holds membership.
The University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and offers 12 intercollegiate sports at the Division II level (six men’s sports: baseball, basketball, cross country, football, soccer, track and field; and six women’s sports: basketball, cross country, soccer, softball, track and field, volleyball). On a regional basis, the University competes in the Lone Star Conference (LSC). In addition, the University offers men’s and women’s rodeo teams, which compete in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA). The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics will abide by all rules and regulations of the NCAA, LSC, NIRA, and the University.
In summary, athletics will provide a wholesome atmosphere for sportsmanship, competition, entertainment, academic achievement and a campus spirit for the development of tradition.
Formally Reviewed and Adopted by ENMU Board of Regents April 27, 2010
