NMHSCA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BUSTER MABREY PASSES AWAY
It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that the New Mexico Activities Association announces the passing of a beloved figure among high school sports. New Mexico High School Coaches Association Executive Director Dr. Buster Mabrey passed away early Monday morning.
“Buster was an advocate for students and education-based athletics and activities statewide,” said New Mexico Activities Association Executive Director Dusty Young. “His leadership, dedication, and service to New Mexico leaves a lasting impact on the many coaches and athletes whose lives he touched. He was a friend, mentor to many, and one of a kind. He will be greatly missed.”
“Buster was a great man, he loved his family and truly cared about every coach in New Mexico,” said NMHSCA President Roy Sanchez. “He loved hanging out with coaches and talking sports. He was a great friend and will be missed.”
“Today we lost a great leader, an advocate for coaches and student athletes, and a good friend,” said Volcano Vista High School girls basketball coach Lisa Villareal. “Dr. Buster Mabrey will be missed across the state of New Mexico, and those across the nation that had the pleasure of meeting him.”
“Buster was an incredible man that dedicated his life to serve the student athletes and coaches of New Mexico,” said Artesia High School basketball coach Michael Mondragon. “His leadership was unwavering, and though he may be gone the impact he’s had on the lives of our coaches and athletes will live on forever. Our sincere condolences to his wife Lori and the entire Mabrey family. May he rest in peace.”
Throughout his time with the NMHSCA, Mabrey worked closely with coaches, administrators, and schools to ensure standards were upheld to support athletes in competition and in life.
Buster grew up in New Mexico, graduating from Hobbs High School in 1985. Following high school, Buster chose to serve his country and became a submarine sailor. In 1992, Buster moved to Las Cruces, New Mexico and began his career in education. Buster served as a high school coach, official, teacher, and administrator for more than 30 years.
According to the New Mexico High School Coaches Association website, he has been the executive director of the NMHSCA for more than 15 years, serving on the NMAA Commission for more than 15 years as well. Dr. Mabrey has been president of the National Organization of Coaches Association Directors (NOCAD), a board member of the National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA, and a National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) Certified Athletic Administrator. Buster has also been associated with the USA High School Football Coaching Alliance (USHSFA) and an American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) affiliate.
The NMAA expresses its heartfelt condolences to Lori Mabrey, along with the family and friends of Buster Mabrey during this difficult time following his passing. His legacy will continue to impact New Mexico athletics for years to come.
