COMMERCE – Texas A&M University-Commerce and Hunt Regional Healthcare announced a significant partnership, marking a historic milestone for Lion Athletics. The collaboration, spanning five years, symbolizes a joint commitment to growth and excellence in serving Hunt County and Northeast Texas.
Through the five-year agreement, the court in the Field House will be named the “Hunt Regional Healthcare Court.” The partnership also includes additional signage and marketing elements visible across Lion Athletics.
“Transformational growth is a defining characteristic of A&M-Commerce and Lion Athletics, and today’s announcement is another illustration of this ascending trajectory,” said Director of Athletics Jim Curry. “This partnership brings together two burgeoning organizations that serve Dallas and Northeast Texas, and this transformative investment will elevate the care we provide to our student-athletes while positioning our teams to compete for Division I championships.”
“We are beyond thankful to Hunt Regional Healthcare for seeing the alignment of our respective missions, its shared commitment to growth, and for believing in the future of A&M-Commerce and Lion Athletics.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome Hunt Regional Healthcare as a premier partner of Lion Athletics,” said A&M-Commerce president Mark Rudin. “Their generous support and dedication to the health of our student-athletes will ensure our continued success in the D1 arena. This partnership brings together two landmark Hunt County institutions that are committed to excellence, and we’re honored and grateful for Hunt Regional’s support. It’s a great day to be a Lion!”
Hunt Regional has served as the official healthcare partner for the athletic department since August 2023, providing medical oversight and healthcare support to all 14 Division I sport programs. Led by Athletic Chief Medical Officer Scott Pierce, DO, services include pre-participation evaluations, imaging and lab work when needed, management of acute injuries, concussion assessments, coordination of specialty care, working with administrators and training staff to revise, develop, and implement “standard of care” protocols.
Lee Boles, CEO of Hunt Regional said, “Hunt Regional Healthcare is thrilled to forge a new partnership with Texas A&M University-Commerce Athletics. We are honored to provide medical services on and off the playing surface for this exemplary Division I program. As like-minded community partners, we know that this relationship is the best fit for our shared goals. We are proud that we have been a part of the City of Commerce for so many years and know that this is an exciting next step for our participation in this vibrant community. Most importantly, the health and wellbeing of the student-athletes is paramount. We look forward to a successful program based on both institutions’ passion for excellence and pursuit of growth.”
