PUEBLO, Colo. (August 5, 2026) – Colorado State University Pueblo Athletics and the YMCA of Pueblo have announced a renewed and enhanced partnership that will strengthen opportunities for youth engagement, community outreach and fan experiences throughout the 2026-27 academic year.
The renewed partnership builds upon the longstanding relationship between the two organizations by expanding opportunities for Pueblo-area youth to connect with ThunderWolf Athletics while increasing CSU Pueblo's presence within YMCA programs and facilities.
"At the YMCA of Pueblo, we believe every young person deserves opportunities to grow, lead, and discover their potential. Our partnership with CSU Pueblo Athletics creates meaningful experiences that inspire healthy lifestyles, build confidence, and strengthen connections throughout our community. We are grateful to continue working alongside ThunderWolf Athletics to invest in Pueblo's youth and families while creating opportunities that extend far beyond the playing field," said Janelle Andrews, President and CEO, YMCA of Pueblo.
Under the renewed agreement, the partnership includes expanded youth engagement opportunities, enhanced branding and promotional efforts, increased access to CSU Pueblo athletic events and collaborative community programming.
Among the highlights of the agreement are:
- Continued support of the CSU Pueblo Junior Thunderwolves program.
- Complimentary admission opportunities for YMCA youth participants to select ThunderWolf athletic events.
- A designated football game experience featuring pregame on-field access during warm-ups for registered YMCA participants.
- Halftime recognition and participation opportunities during select CSU Pueblo basketball and soccer contests.
- Increased participation by CSU Pueblo student-athletes and coaches in YMCA youth clinics, camps and community programming.
- Expanded CSU Pueblo branding and promotional visibility throughout YMCA facilities and marketing initiatives.
- Cross-promotional efforts designed to increase awareness of both organizations' programs and events.
- Enhanced YMCA membership opportunities for CSU Pueblo employees through the YMCA's Corporate Cup program.
- Continued collaboration on community initiatives, including the annual Corporate Cup Home Run Derby and the YMCA's Love Your Y Day.
The partnership also reinforces both organizations' shared commitment to promoting youth development, healthy living and social responsibility throughout the Pueblo community.
"The YMCA of Pueblo has been a trusted leader in strengthening our community for generations, and we're excited to expand our partnership in ways that create even more opportunities for local youth and families," said
Dr. Paul Plinske, CSU Pueblo Vice President of Athletics and Strategic Partnerships. "This collaboration is about much more than athletics—it's about investing in the next generation, providing meaningful experiences and using the power of sports to inspire healthy, active lifestyles. By bringing Pack student-athletes, coaches and fans together with the YMCA, we're building stronger connections throughout Pueblo while creating lasting memories for young people. We're proud to partner with an organization that shares our commitment to service, education and community, and we look forward to continuing to grow this relationship for years to come."
