TAMIU Annual Report 2021

DUSTDEVIL ATHLETICS TEAMS WEATHER CHANGE AND EXCEL After a unique 2020-21 season due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Texas A&M International University athletics, as well as the entire country had to adjust to a new schedule model and way of playing. The Dustdevils excelled last season in athletics, playing extremely well on the field and on the court. Cross country kicked off the sports season for TAMIU and did especially well. The women’s team placed fourth in the Lone Star Conference Championships and the men’s finished eighth. Five runners earned All-LSC honors, finishing top 15 in the meet (three women and two men). The women’s team and the two All-LSC men also qualified for the 2020 Division II National Invitational Meet. Team sports didn’t resume until nearly November, as men’s and women’s basketball took the floor. Women’s basketball had a banner year, winning the LSC South Division Championship, going 11-5 overall and 9-4 in LSC play, earning the team’s first trip to the LSC Tournament. The Dustdevils had the best win percentage in a single season, as well as three players earning All-LSC honors, one of which was named the LSC Defensive Player of the Year. Men’s basketball ushered in a new era with head coach Mac McConnell, and while the record may not have been flashy, the growth could be seen for the upcoming years. Normal fall sports volleyball, men’s soccer and women’s soccer were moved to the spring and joined softball, baseball and men’s and women’s golf. Men’s and women’s golf all competed in several tournaments and come LSC Championship time, the women’s team placed seventh and men’s 12th. TAMIU Women’s Basketball presented with 2020-21 LSC South Division Championship Trophy By TAMIU President Dr. Pablo Arenaz at Maroon Madness 2021 ATHLETICS 27