SILVER CITY, N.M. – Western New Mexico University has officially named Matt Enriquez as its Director of Athletics, as announced by Interim President Chris Maples, marking the culmination of a remarkable 21-year journey within Mustang Athletics. Enriquez has been serving as WNMU's Interim Athletics Director since June 2025.

A 2006 graduate and 2015 WNMU Athletic Hall of Famer, Enriquez has built one of the most complete careers in program history; excelling as a student-athlete, coach, and administrator. As a standout on the men's basketball team from 2002–06, he scored 1,591 career points, placing him among the top players in school history while earning a reputation for leadership and consistency.

Following his playing career, Enriquez remained at WNMU and transitioned into coaching, eventually becoming Head Men's Basketball Coach in 2016. His time on the sidelines emphasized student-athlete development both academically and athletically, reflecting the values that shaped his own experience.

In 2019, Enriquez moved into administration, serving as Assistant and later Associate Athletics Director for Internal Operations. In that role, Enriquez developed a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to sustain and grow an athletic program.

Over his 21-year tenure, Enriquez has been a central figure in shaping the evolution of WNMU Athletics. His deep institutional knowledge, combined with an unwavering commitment in the university's mission, has made him a steady and trusted leader during times of transition.

During this past year as Interim Athletics Director, Matt Enriquez has overseen a year of impressive success both on the field and in the classroom for Western New Mexico. Mustang student-athletes posted a 3.19 cumulative GPA, with 126 earning recognition on the Lone Star Conference Commissioner's Fall 2025 Honor Roll and 52 earning a perfect 4.0 GPA. Competitive success followed across multiple programs, highlighted by 16 All-Conference selections and a historic season for men's basketball, which recorded a program-best 22 wins and advanced to both the Lone Star Conference and NCAA Tournaments for the first time in school history. Volleyball and softball each recorded their highest win totals since 2016. Women's golf captured the Southwest Minnesota State (SMSU) Spring Invite title, and men's tennis reached its highest national ranking at No. 34. Meanwhile, track and field continued its upward trajectory, consistently rewriting the program's record books.

Beyond competition, Enriquez has prioritized enhancing the student-athlete experience through meaningful initiatives and community engagement. For the inaugural Pink Game for Men's and Women's basketball, all proceeds raised through ticket sales and donations went to the Gila Regional Cancer Center. Enriquez reintroduced the department's senior banquet in April to celebrate graduating student-athletes, while also strengthening collaboration with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) to recognize Faculty of the Semester and organize community outreach efforts through a toy drive. Additionally, Mustang Athletics has seen a notable increase in fundraising efforts this year, further strengthening support for student-athlete resources and future program development. Enriquez was also pivotal in bringing back the WNMU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2026, further recognizing the success of past athletes and remembering their impact on the school. In addition, Enriquez has expanded opportunities for student-athletes through new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives, creating added exposure and branding potential.

His appointment as Director of Athletics solidifies a leadership path built on experience, loyalty, accomplishments, and deep institutional knowledge. Having served WNMU Athletics in nearly every capacity, Enriquez now leads the department with a clear vision rooted in student-athlete success and long-term program growth.

"Matt's vision and accomplishments over the past year speak for themselves. His commitment to student success both in the classroom and in their chosen sports is the perfect combination for Western New Mexico University. It has been an honor and privilege to work with him during my year here at WNMU," said Interim President Chris Maples.
"I'm incredibly excited and deeply honored to continue serving in this role. This truly is a dream come true after so many years at WNMU," Enriquez said. "This moment is humbling and energizing, and it reflects the passion and commitment of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff, who make this place so special."

"I'm especially grateful to Interim President Dr. Maples for his steady leadership and unwavering support, and to incoming President Dr. Coll for his confidence and bold vision for what lies ahead. I also want to thank the Board of Regents for their trust in me and in the future of our athletics program. I truly appreciate our campus and local community for the constant support, pride, and belief in our program. Their commitment helps fuel our success and create opportunities for our student-athletes to thrive. I'm excited to build on our momentum, elevate our programs, and continue creating an environment where our student-athletes can thrive both on the field and in the classroom. The future is bright, and I am thrilled to be part of leading us forward."

The Enriquez family's impact on Western New Mexico University extends well beyond athletics. His wife, Jessica Enriquez, serves as WNMU's Director of the Registrar's office. A proud alumna, Jessica holds multiple degrees from WNMU and brings more than two decades of experience across academic affairs, business affairs, and student services. Her dedication to guiding students through their educational journeys mirrors the family's shared belief in the transformative power of higher education. Together, Matt and Jessica are raising their two daughters, Averi (13) and Allie (6), while continuing to contribute meaningfully to the Mustang community. Their story reflects service, loyalty, and a deep commitment to the mission of Western New Mexico University.

For Enriquez, this role is a continuation of a lifelong commitment to Western New Mexico University.
 

***

 
Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).