If you’ve been looking for a more affordable way to introduce your kids to the pageantry of college football, Lobo Football has just delivered a winning play. The University of New Mexico has unveiled a fan-first initiative that allows children 12 and under to attend select home games for free — making it easier than ever to bring the entire family to University Stadium this fall.
Through the “Kids 12 & Under Get In Free” offer, fans who purchase a general admission ticket in the North End Zone can receive up to two complimentary kids’ tickets for the same game. The deal, sponsored by The Education Plan®, applies to all 2025 home games except for the Rio Grande Rivalry matchup against New Mexico State on September 27.
“This is about more than just filling the stands — it’s about investing in the next generation of Lobo fans,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Fernando Lovo. “We want families to feel welcome, to have fun, and to experience the kind of excitement that makes college football special.”
Tickets can be secured at GoLobos.com/tickets by selecting Football and navigating to the “Kids Free Initiative.”
The five eligible games for the promotion include:
- Sept. 6 vs. Idaho State
- Oct. 18 vs. Nevada
- Oct. 25 vs. Utah State
- Nov. 15 vs. Colorado State
- Nov. 28 vs. San Diego State
The initiative is part of a broader campaign to enhance the game day experience, which includes a \$1.2 million investment in a new video board and a roster that’s trending upward under new Head Coach Jason Eck. With 75 new players, including four All-Americans, and multiple preseason All-Mountain West selections, expectations are growing for a competitive 2025 campaign.
Villareal Returns Home to Lead Lobo Basketball’s Creative Vision
UNM Athletics also announced a key addition to its front office staff as Albuquerque native Matt Villareal has been hired as Assistant Athletic Director for Creative Services and Digital Strategy for Lobo Basketball.
Villareal brings a wealth of high-level experience to the role, having spent six years as the Creative Director of Basketball Recruiting at Gonzaga University — a program that reached the NCAA Championship game and multiple Sweet 16s during his tenure.
“Matt brings a dynamic blend of creativity, strategy, and passion for storytelling,” said Kasey Byers, UNM’s Senior Associate AD for External Affairs. “His national experience will be instrumental in amplifying the Lobo Basketball brand.”
Villareal will lead the creative direction for both men’s and women’s basketball, including social media, digital content, recruiting graphics, and fan engagement strategy. He holds degrees from Oklahoma State (B.A. in Sports Media) and Gonzaga (MBA), and has also contributed to the College Football Playoff and Oklahoma State’s athletic department.
Labitzke Joins Lobo Men’s Tennis for 2025-26 Season
Head men’s tennis coach Rob Bareford has added a top international prospect to next year’s squad, announcing the signing of Carl Labitzke from Berlin, Germany.
The left-handed freshman brings an impressive résumé to Albuquerque, including three Berlin singles titles and a career-high European ranking of No. 40. He was a consistent top-10 player in his age group across Germany and currently holds a men’s ITF ranking of No. 2485.
“Carl is a strong lefty with the potential to become really, really good,” said Bareford.
Labitzke joins a revamped roster featuring five transfers and three returning players, as the Lobos look to build on a 16-9 season that included an NCAA Tournament appearance. UNM will compete in the 2026 ITA Kickoff Weekend against national powerhouse UCLA.
McCarter Named Co-Recipient of Hal Rothman Sportsmanship Award
In one of the Mountain West’s most prestigious individual honors, Katy McCarter, a senior swimmer from Fairbanks, Alaska, has been named the 2024-25 recipient of the Hal Rothman Sportsmanship Award.
McCarter, a four-time Academic All-Mountain West honoree, stood out not only for her sprint and backstroke performances, but also for her leadership and conduct on deck. Known for uplifting teammates and engaging with competitors, McCarter becomes the first women’s swimming athlete at UNM — and only the second Lobo overall — to receive the award.
“Whether it was cheering on teammates or congratulating opponents, Katy embodied what this award stands for,” the league noted in its announcement.
She shares the honor with UNLV football standout Jackson Woodard, who is currently competing for a roster spot with the NFL’s Houston Texans.
Stay tuned to GoLobos.com and Lobo Athletics social media channels for more updates as the 2025-26 season approaches.