San Antonio, Texas, February 10, 2026
Texas A&M University-San Antonio is set to introduce men’s and women’s cross country and track and field programs beginning in the 2026-27 academic year. This expansion is the largest in the university’s athletic history, increasing varsity sports to 12 and the student-athlete population significantly. A $10 million investment from Bexar County is funding a new competition-quality track and field facility, further enhancing the university’s commitment to student life and engagement.
San Antonio, Texas
Texas A&M University-San Antonio (A&M-San Antonio) is expanding its athletic offerings by introducing men’s and women’s cross country and track and field programs, set to commence in the 2026–27 academic year. This expansion marks the largest in the university’s athletic history, increasing the number of varsity sports to 12 and the student-athlete population from over 130 to nearly 200.
The new competition-quality track and field facility is projected to open this spring. Funded through a $10 million investment from Bexar County, the facility includes a new softball complex. This development is part of A&M-San Antonio’s broader strategy to enhance student life and campus culture through expanded athletic programs.
Since launching its NAIA athletics program in 2020, A&M-San Antonio has added men’s and women’s soccer, men’s golf, softball, and men’s and women’s basketball. The introduction of cross country and track and field aligns with the university’s commitment to providing diverse athletic opportunities for its students.
University President Salvador Hector Ochoa emphasized that the expansion of intercollegiate athletics is integral to the university’s strategic plan, aiming to become a destination campus and the school of first choice for students across Bexar County and Texas.
Growing Commitment to Athletics
The introduction of men’s and women’s cross country and track and field programs reflects Texas A&M-San Antonio’s dedication to enhancing its athletics department. The anticipated increase in student-athletes demonstrates the university’s commitment to engage a broader spectrum of student interests, which can contribute to a vibrant campus community. Such developments also present opportunities for local businesses catering to student needs, thereby stimulating San Antonio’s economy.
A New Sporting Facility
This spring, A&M-San Antonio will unveil a state-of-the-art track and field facility, made possible by a $10 million investment from Bexar County. This facility not only supports competitive athletics but also emphasizes the importance of investing in infrastructure that promotes student health and wellness. Such public-private partnerships showcase how collaboration can foster growth and investment within San Antonio.
Recent Additions to Athletics
The addition of cross country and track and field is just the latest step in A&M-San Antonio’s athletic expansion since it launched its NAIA athletics program in 2020. The introduction of sports like soccer, golf, and basketball illustrates A&M-San Antonio’s proactive approach to fostering a competitive and comprehensive athletics program, ensuring that students have a wide array of options to pursue their sporting passions.
Strategic Vision for the Future
The strategic plan spearheaded by the university aims not only to enhance athletics but also to position A&M-San Antonio as a school of choice for students across Texas. By expanding its athletic offerings, the university hopes to attract prospective students who are passionate about sports, enriching the overall educational experience and bolstering community ties.
Community Impact and Support
As A&M-San Antonio continues to invest in its programs and facilities, it sends a strong message about the value of community engagement and support for local institutions. The anticipated growth in student enrollment and athletic participation can lead to increased economic activity in the area, benefiting local businesses that thrive on student patronage.
The expansion of sports at Texas A&M-San Antonio is more than just a response to student interests; it’s a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering growth within the region. By investing in athletic programs, the university not only enhances its own reputation but also contributes positively to San Antonio’s economic landscape.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, Texas A&M University-San Antonio’s expansion into men’s and women’s cross country and track and field provides a multifaceted opportunity for enhanced student engagement, economic growth, and community development. The strategic investments made by Bexar County and the university underscore the benefits of supporting local initiatives that contribute to broader development goals across San Antonio.
Support for local institutions and an understanding of the stakes involved in education and athletic investment remain crucial. As San Antonio continues to grow, maintaining a focus on community collaboration will help ensure that economic growth is sustainable and beneficial to all residents.
A&M-San Antonio is adding men’s and women’s cross country and track and field programs, set to begin in the 2026–27 academic year.
How does this expansion affect the university’s athletics department?
This expansion increases the number of varsity sports to 12 and the student-athlete population from over 130 to nearly 200.
When is the new track and field facility expected to open?
The new competition-quality track and field facility is projected to open this spring.
Who funded the new athletic facilities?
The facilities were funded through a $10 million investment from Bexar County.
What other athletic programs has A&M-San Antonio introduced in recent years?
Since launching its NAIA athletics program in 2020, A&M-San Antonio has added men’s and women’s soccer, men’s golf, softball, and men’s and women’s basketball.
What is the university’s strategic plan regarding athletics?
The expansion of intercollegiate athletics is integral to the university’s strategic plan, aiming to become a destination campus and the school of first choice for students across Bexar County and Texas.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Athletic Programs | Men’s and women’s cross country and track and field, starting in the 2026–27 academic year. |
| Expansion Impact | Increases varsity sports to 12 and student-athletes from over 130 to nearly 200. |
| Facility Opening | New track and field facility projected to open this spring. |
| Funding Source | $10 million investment from Bexar County. |
| Recent Program Additions | Men’s and women’s soccer, men’s golf, softball, and men’s and women’s basketball since 2020. |
| Strategic Plan | Aims to become a destination campus and the school of first choice for students across Bexar County and Texas. |
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