City extends $75,000 funding to Hobbs Municipal Schools for middle‑school athletics

The Hobbs City Commission approved Resolution No. 7667, a professional services agreement providing $75,000 to the Hobbs Municipal Schools to support middle‑school athletic programs in football, volleyball and basketball. Recreation Director Doug McDaniel and Superintendent Jean Strickland presented the longstanding partnership and student participation numbers.

Doug McDaniel said the program dates back to before 1999 when the city ran a basketball program; since 1999 the schools have expanded the program to include volleyball and football. “Last year, a total of 732 Hobbs Municipal School students participated in the 3 sports,” McDaniel told the commission. Superintendent Strickland said sports participation provides meaningful engagement for students and benefits school performance and community outcomes.

The commission approved the agreement by voice vote; staff said the city and schools would continue coordinating on practice fields and facilities, noting recent turf improvements made with Lee County partnership that will accommodate upcoming middle‑school football practices. Staff will execute the agreement and monitor program participation and outcomes.