SILVER CITY, N.M. – Western New Mexico University Athletics has announced the 2026 class of the WNMU Athletic Hall of Fame. The class features one of the most accomplished doubles teams in Mustang men's tennis history, Vladimir Gnilozubov and Tristan Da Lio, along with football standout Chenelle Jones, baseball standout Rich Hoth, and Distinguished Community Member Dean Thompson.
The Class of 2026 will be officially inducted during the WNMU Athletic Hall of Fame ceremony on October 9th from 5pm to 7:30pm at Graham Gym, located on WNMU campus. Tickets to the ceremony are available for purchase HERE. The inductees will also be recognized during the Homecoming game on October 10th at Ben Altamirano Field. Kickoff is at 2pm and tickets to the game can be purchased HERE.
Vladimir Gnilozubov and Tristan Da Lio
Together, Vladimir Gnilozubov and Tristan Da Lio established themselves as one of the most accomplished doubles teams in WNMU men's tennis history. As teammates during one of the most successful eras in Mustang tennis, the duo helped lead WNMU to three Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference championships while establishing themselves among the nation's elite doubles teams. Their chemistry and consistency culminated in winning the ITA South Central Regional Doubles Championship in 2016 before earning NCAA Division II All-American honors in doubles in 2017.
Together, Gnilozubov and Da Lio elevated WNMU men's tennis onto the national stage, climbing as high as No. 3 in the ITA national doubles rankings and becoming one of the premier doubles pairings in NCAA Division II. Their success against top regional and national competition played a pivotal role in the sustained championship culture of Mustang tennis, helping solidify the program as one of the region's best. Because of the impact they made together, Gnilozubov and Da Lio are honored as a doubles team, recognizing a partnership that ranks among the greatest in WNMU men's tennis history.
Chenelle Jones
A standout defensive back and respected coach, Chenelle Jones dedicated years of service to WNMU football while achieving success at the highest levels of collegiate athletics. As a standout defensive back from 1992-95, Jones earned national recognition as a 1995 NAIA All-American. During his senior season, he led the nation in interceptions, earning national statistical champion honors and cementing his place among the most accomplished defensive players in program history. His playmaking ability, leadership, and impact on the field helped establish him as one of the premier defensive backs to ever wear the Mustang uniform.
Jones' influence on WNMU football extended well beyond his playing days. Returning to his alma mater as Defensive Coordinator and Assistant Head Coach from 2003-07, he helped guide the Mustangs during their transition back into the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. Under his leadership in 2006, WNMU ranked first in the RMAC in pass defense, second in total defense, and among the conference leaders in rushing and scoring defense while coaching the league's Defensive Player of the Year. Over a coaching career spanning more than three decades, Jones has mentored countless student-athletes and helped many advance to higher levels of competition. His lasting impact as both an All-American player and successful coach makes him a highly deserving Hall of Fame inductee.
Rich Hoth
Rich Hoth established himself as one of the most prolific hitters in WNMU baseball history during the Mustangs' successful run in the 1980s. A dominant force at the plate, Hoth led the RMAC with a .454 batting average in 1986 while earning NAIA First Team All-American honors. He followed that season with NAIA Second Team All-American recognition in 1987, further cementing his status among the nation's top players. Hoth's offensive production was highlighted by a school-record 72 RBIs in a single season and a powerful bat that helped drive the Mustangs' success throughout his career.
More than four decades later, Hoth's impact remains evident in the RMAC record book. His 28 home runs in a season still stand as the conference record, while his .970 slugging percentage ranks third all-time in RMAC history 42 years later. As a key contributor during one of the most successful eras in Mustang baseball, Hoth helped establish a standard of excellence for future generations. His remarkable accomplishments and lasting legacy make him one of the premier players in WNMU baseball history.
Dean Thompson
For more than four decades, Dean Thompson has been a constant presence on the sidelines of Mustang Athletics, capturing some of the most memorable moments in WNMU sports history. As a sports photographer for the Silver City Daily Press for 44 and a half years, Thompson has dedicated countless hours to documenting WNMU student-athletes and sharing their stories with the community. His photographs have chronicled generations of Mustangs, preserving the achievements and memories of countless teams and individuals. Before his photography career, Thompson also served as the sports information director at WNMU during the 1978 and 1979 seasons, further strengthening his connection to Mustang Athletics.
Beyond WNMU, Thompson's impact extends throughout Silver City and Grant County. He has long been involved in youth activities, including Little League programs and community efforts such as the committee supporting the development of a new recreation center. His commitment to highlighting local athletics at every level has made him a familiar and respected figure throughout the region. Through his unwavering dedication to student-athletes, community sports, and local journalism, Thompson has played an invaluable role in promoting and preserving the rich tradition of athletics in southwest New Mexico.
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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).
