2025-26 ATHLETICS STRATEGIC PLAN
WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
THE WAY
OUR MISSION
Committed to enriching the student-athlete experience by fostering academic excellence, athletic achievement, and personal growth through a nationally competitive intercollegiate athletics program that elevates the pride, reputation, and visibility of West Texas A&M University.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUCCESS ENHANCE
Continue to enhance our reputation as a destination campus by showcasing our state-of-the-art facilities and investing in forward-looking upgrades. Through the integration of cutting-edge technology and modern amenities, we aim to elevate the experience for student-athletes and fans, reinforcing WT as a premier environment for athletic excellence, recruitment, and community engagement.
ELEVATE EXCELLENCE
Committed to elevating our impact by expanding giving efforts through the Buffalo Athletic Club and strategic Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives. By growing philanthropic support and launching meaningful NIL opportunities, we are creating new pathways for investment in our student-athletes, programs, and facilities, ensuring a stronger and more competitive future for Buff Nation.
Dedicated to building on our championship tradition by creating a culture of excellence that sets us apart. We will continue to raise performance standards, attract top-tier talent, and cultivate an environment where student-athletes can thrive on the field, in the classroom, and beyond. This drive for competitive separation fuels our mission to lead, inspire, and win at every level.
BE ELITE.
THE BIG FIVE STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
1
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Leverage our athletics platform as a reflection of West Texas A&M University’s commitment to academic excellence, personal growth, and the development of well-rounded student-athletes.
2
CHAMPIONSHIP CULTURE
Strategically position our athletic programs to cultivate a culture of excellence and sustained success, empowering our student-athletes to consistently compete for and win championships across all sports.
3
FAN EXPERIENCE
Strengthen the identity of West Texas A&M Athletics and expand our community influence by creating memorable and high-energy experiences that connect fans, students, and alumni alike.
4
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Foster strong, collaborative relationships with corporate partners, donors, university affiliates, alumni, and the greater West Texas community through intentional outreach, transparent communication, and meaningful engagement.
5
FINANCIAL METRICS
Drive innovative strategies to grow new revenue streams and enhance existing ones, securing the long-term financial strength and success of West Texas A&M Athletics.
WAY
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
West Texas A&M Athletics is committed to setting the standard for student-athlete success by fostering academic achievement alongside meaningful personal and professional growth opportunities.
Comprehensive Support Programs
We prioritize the academic success and integrity of our student-athletes while expanding support services in career readiness, leadership development, mental wellness, and life skills to promote lasting achievement both on and off the field.
Professional Growth
We will strengthen career preparation by growing internship opportunities and forging strong partnerships with leading regional, national, and global employers. These connections will help create tailored career pathways for our student-athletes, ensuring a smooth transition into the professional world.
Alumni Connections
West Texas A&M will build lifelong bonds between our student-athletes and alumni by establishing mentorship programs across all sports and creating a dedicated alumni network that supports ongoing engagement and community.
Fostering Innovation and Creativity
We encourage our student-athletes to embrace innovation and creativity through collaborations within the department and across campus, empowering them to explore new ideas and entrepreneurial ventures.
NCAA Policy and Compliance
By maintaining a proactive and flexible organizational approach, West Texas A&M Athletics will be well-prepared to adapt swiftly to any changes in NCAA regulations or policies, safeguarding the integrity and competitiveness of our programs.
CHAMPIONSHIP CULTURE
At West Texas A&M Athletics, our goal is to empower student-athletes to consistently perform and succeed at the highest levels across every athletic program.
State of the Art Facilities
Invest in and maintain premier training and development facilities, guided by the university’s long-term vision and generational strategic plan, WT 125, to provide student-athletes with the resources they need to reach their full potential.
Modern Competition Venues
Continue to maintain and upgrade competition venues to meet the highest standards, ensuring our teams can compete with impact and pride in front of Buff Nation.
Integrated Sports Performance Programs
Implement a comprehensive Sports Performance Program that includes mental health support, strength and conditioning, rehabilitation, sports medicine, and nutrition services. Emphasize the use of cutting-edge technology, innovation, and partnerships across campus and the local community.
Elite Coaching and Development
Attract, nurture, and retain championship-level coaches dedicated to maximizing the growth and success of our student-athletes on and off the field with utilization of data driven processes.
A Unique Value Proposition
Be a leader in the Lone Star Conference and NCAA DII with our distinct strengths; the quality of our academic programs, the vibrant spirit of the Texas Panhandle, and our competitive athletic culture to attract top talent committed to becoming Buffs for life.
WAY
FAN EXPERIENCE
Our goal is to enhance the visibility of West Texas A&M Athletics and broaden our impact within the community by creating an unforgettable and inclusive fan experience.
Game Day Atmosphere
Enhance the game day atmosphere with refreshed pre-game and in-game activities, expanded fan engagement opportunities, upgraded food and beverage selections, and diverse viewing and entertainment options to energize Buff Nation.
Building Lasting Relationships
Cultivate and sustain strong connections with our fans through year-round engagement initiatives and improved feedback channels to ensure their voices are heard. Expand engagement efforts in key alumni regions to foster loyalty and support.
Growing the Fan Base
Attract new supporters to West Texas A&M Athletics by implementing targeted outreach strategies and delivering timely, relevant information to prospective fans and key community groups.
Engaging Students and Supporting Retention
Strengthen campus spirit and student involvement by creating tailored programming and events that actively engage the student body. Collaborate with campus organizations to foster a vibrant athletics culture that supports student success and encourages retention throughout their academic journey.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
West Texas A&M Athletics is committed to building meaningful, lasting relationships through consistent communication, outreach, and engagement with all members of the WT community, on campus and beyond.
Collaborative Partnerships and Donor Engagement
Build purposeful and lasting relationships with corporate partners, donors, university collaborators, alumni, and the broader Texas Panhandle community through clear communication and active engagement. Donors play a crucial role in shaping the future of WT Athletics, and we will honor their support through meaningful recognition and opportunities to be directly involved in advancing our mission and long-term vision of the Buffalo Athletic Club and expansion of NIL opportunities for our student-athletes.
Campus Engagement
Strengthen bonds with students, faculty, and university leadership by developing creative, consistent avenues for engagement. Focus on enhancing the student experience and fostering a sense of pride in athletics that contributes to a more connected and vibrant campus culture.
Community Programming
Expand communication of athletics events throughout the Texas Panhandle by offering community themes that welcome families, youth, and local organizations into the WT family.
Versatile Facilities
Continue to utilize athletic spaces as dynamic, multi-functional environments that support athletic excellence while also serving academic, donor, community, and university-wide programming needs.
WAY
FINANCIAL METRICS
West Texas A&M Athletics is committed to securing long-term financial strength by growing philanthropic support and expanding key revenue opportunities that directly fuel our mission.
Philanthropic Giving
Elevate support for WT Athletics by increasing contributions to both annual and capital campaigns through the Buffalo Athletic Club, supporting the University’s WT 125 strategic plan. Strengthen donor engagement through personalized communication, relationship-building, and consistent outreach that aligns donor passion with program priorities.
Revenue Expansion
Enhance financial sustainability by optimizing current revenue sources; such as licensing, ticketing, and sponsorships while identifying new, creative avenues for self-generated income to support athletic operations and growth.
Strategic Endowments
Pursue targeted endowment opportunities as part of WT 125 to provide lasting support for student-athlete scholarships, head coaching positions, and key leadership roles, ensuring the future stability and excellence of WT Athletics.
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Engagement
Support the evolving landscape of college athletics by launching our NIL Exchange, an official platform that connects student-athletes with businesses, alumni, and supporters for compliant NIL opportunities. We will provide education, resources, and guidance to help student-athletes maximize their personal brand while upholding the integrity and values of West Texas A&M.
