GALLUP, N.M. — Cheers filled the gym as Seenane Brewer rose above the net to block a shot from the Northern Arizona University squad, capturing the intensity of a tightly contested exhibition matchup.
The University of New Mexico and NAU women’s volleyball teams ultimately split four sets in a fast-paced, competitive showcase at Miyamura High.
“This exhibition shows our young people what’s possible when they commit to their goals, stay connected to their identity, and take advantage of every opportunity in front of them,” said Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, who attended the game on Friday, April 3.
Brewer, a sophomore for UNM and a proud representative of the Navajo Nation, continues to build on an impressive volleyball resumé. She earned KSHSAA 6A First Team All-Sunflower League honors in 2023 and Honorable Mention in 2022, and competed at the 2023 USA Volleyball Girls Junior National Championship, finishing 22nd in the 17U Open Division.
Her connection to UNM runs deep. Brewer’s mother, Nana Allison-Brewer, was a four-year letter winner for Lobo Volleyball from 1996 to 1999 and earned the Western Athletic Conference Defensive Specialist Award, adding to a family legacy of collegiate athletics.
UNM Head Coach Brian Hosfeld is working to build a team rooted in local recruitment and long-term player development. As part of that vision, he and his staff are planning offseason volleyball camps to help young athletes grow their skills and pursue collegiate opportunities. In partnership with President Nygren, efforts are underway to bring those camps directly to Navajo Nation communities.
“Our goal is to invest in the communities around us,” Hosfeld said. “We want to identify talent early, support their growth, and create pathways for student-athletes to succeed both on and off the court.”
Across the Navajo Nation, more students are taking up volleyball through school and club teams, traveling to compete and working toward scholarship opportunities. Leaders from both UNM and the Navajo Nation hope that visibility, access, and continued collaboration will inspire the next generation to pursue their goals—on the court and in the classroom.
