8-16-2023 5:58pm

Alan Edmondson New Alamogordo Athletic Director Launches Free Tickets Return of the Roar!

Chris Edwards Editor

Alamogordo High School Athletics hired a new athletic director this summer who came in quietly but is introducing the 2023 Athletic program to the public with a big bang of enthusiasm and opening the doors for free admission to all.

Alan Edmondson is Alamogordo High School’s new athletic director. He comes to Alamogordo passionate about sports and winning but equally passionate about community engagement and participation.

A career in varsity coaching started off in Socorro, and then around 2011 he started leading the team at Goddard High School in his native Roswell.

It's a team Edmondson played on as a boy, and ultimately coached to a state title in its fourth attempt. Edmondson then went to Carlsbad High School as head baseball coach. Now he has come to Alamogordo as athletic director.

Alan Edmondson has a reputation for community engagement and operations outside the box of traditional thinking. He is community and social media savvy…

The values gained by participating in interscholastic athletics and activities are preached daily by educators, coaches and athletic administrators. While school-based programming seems to be in a constant battle with club sports over its ability to increase college and professional athletic probability, no one disputes the virtuous opportunities provided by representing something larger than yourself.

Coaches like Robert Riggins of Pojoaque Valley High School in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Alan Edmonson when at Carlsbad (New Mexico) High School tested the waters of instilling in their athletes that the name on the front of their jersey means far more than the name on the back.

To gain the support of their community, Riggins decided to challenge his athletes to perform random acts of kindness. His intention to create a community service project for his baseball team blossomed into a social media movement when Riggins teamed up with Edmondson.

“I had this idea to make an impact on our community,” Riggins said. “I wanted to do more. I wanted something bigger. I came up with the idea and contacted Edmonson. He had some great ideas, and we partnered together to help grow the challenge.”

The idea has become known as the #RAKEChallenge standing for Random Acts of Kindness and Empowerment. It’s simple, really. A team performs a random act of kindness in its community, posts about it on social media with the hashtag “#RAKEChallenge” and challenges another high school to do the same.

“As coaches we realize that the game of life is far more important and lasts much longer than high school athletics,” Edmondson said. “The lessons you learn about life and being a better person out-weigh the base hits, the strikeouts, the wins and the losses. As a coach, it’s more important for my athletes to leave my program as better people than better athletes.”

The giving began at Carlsbad High School with the glazed, iced and even sprinkled fried dough confection loved by kids everywhere – the donut. Members of the baseball team surprised the unsuspecting student body on a Friday morning with the sugary treats.

“When our boys were presented with the idea they were excited and could not wait to jump on board,” Edmondson said.

Baseball players were instructed to hand out donuts to students they did not already know. On the surface their act of kindness was providing breakfast, but on a deeper level the intent was to create new interpersonal connections and to instill the act of giving to not just those they knew, but more importantly, those they did not.

“As coaches it’s important to teach our kids that at some point their athletic career will come to an end. However, being a good father, husband, friend and community member doesn’t,” Edmonson said. “We want them to do good in the world outside of athletics.”

The power to have an impact on an entire community is what makes high school sports so special.

That is but one of many examples of community outreach beyond the norms of traditional high school athletics.

Now in Alamogordo under his leadership is a new campaign one to reenergize and reengage the community at large to rejoin and participate in supporting local high school athletics.

"Embracing our traditions and forging new legacies are what make high school athletics special and meaningful within our communities. Being a Tiger has created lifelong memories, united our town, and remains the dream of so many of our youth. It's time to make our past a part of our future and ensure that we seize the opportunity presented to us. Prepare for the ‘RETURN OF THE ROAR!’" Alan Edmondson, APS Athletic Director

“We're thrilled to announce the launch of our 'Return of the Roar' initiative, where the roar of our collective spirit will echo through every student activity and game. With free attendance now granted to all, we're not just cheering for our teams, but for the unity that runs through our community. This initiative is not just about games; it is about creating unforgettable moments, forging connections, and elevating Tiger Pride to new heights. Together we will rally behind our students as they showcase their talents on all stages. Let's come together in support of our students! The roar is back, and it's stronger than ever!” - Pam Renteria, Acting Superintendent

How the program works. Folks still wanting “reserved seating, reserved seating is still available at Tiger Stadium, you can purchase season tickets through the Athletics Department at 575-812-5564.

However for ANYBODY that just wants a seat and to join the activities or events, come on down it is now FREE to anyone to attend any sporting event!

Excerpts of the official press release explains the complete thinking and details…

“Alamogordo Public Schools (APS) proudly announces an exhilarating return to sporting events this year with a groundbreaking initiative that will set the tone for a spirited season of unity, pride, and support for our talented APS students. Under the theme "Return of the Roar," APS is delighted to invite the entire community to participate in this unforgettable journey by offering FREE ADMISSION to all regular athletic & activity events throughout the academic year.

The administration at Alamogordo Public Schools believes that school sports & activities play a vital role in nurturing teamwork, leadership, and character development among students. With the drive to increase attendance at events, APS aims to create a vibrant atmosphere that empowers our young athletes while fostering a strong sense of community engagement and school spirit.

The 'Return of the Roar' campaign marks a significant step towards reigniting the passion for school sports in Alamogordo and reinforcing the essential values of sportsmanship, determination, and camaraderie among students. By removing the barrier of admission fees, APS is determined to make these events more accessible, bringing together a diverse and enthusiastic crowd to support and uplift our athletes….

Mark your calendars and join us at the stadiums, fields, and courts to be part of the roaring crowd, as Alamogordo Public Schools embarks on an unforgettable journey of sports excellence and community togetherness.
For more information on the Return of the Roar, please visit www.returnoftheroar.com.”

The season has just begun for Alamogordo Tiger Athletics but its apparent new energy, focus and excitement is driving the 2023 season. At AlamogordoTownNews.com and community KRAZY KALHradio.org we welcome this fresh new approach to community building and wish the students and Director Alam Edmondson great success.

If you appreciate independent news please consider support. Research, analysis, and writing takes time and effort…

https://2ndlifemediaalamogordo.town.news/support.