What do a credit union and a hockey team have in common? Checking!

Sandia Area and the New Mexico Ice Wolves also share something even more important: a commitment to giving back to the community.

That's why Sandia Area is proud to announce a new sponsorship of the New Mexico Ice Wolves for the 2026–2027 season.

Caring for the community is foundational to Sandia Area's core values, and Sandia Area is excited to partner with an organization that shares a drive to uplift and improve the community they call home.

The New Mexico Ice Wolves is a tuition-free Tier II team in the North American Hockey League that provides young athletes with opportunities to develop their skills while pursuing college and professional hockey careers. Through their connection to local youth hockey, the organization also helps grow the sport and create opportunities for young players nationwide.

For Sandia Area President & CEO Kevin Todd, the partnership strikes an emotional chord.

"Team sports can be a transformative experience for kids, teaching teamwork, discipline, confidence, and perseverance. Sandia Area is proud to be a part of bringing that experience to New Mexico families through our support of New Mexico Ice Wolves.”

Kevin Todd, President & CEO, Sandia Area

Sandia Area's support of hockey in New Mexico began with a $12,000 commitment supporting three youth hockey programs that train at the Ice Wolves' facility, Outpost Ice Arenas: the all-girl Mustangs, the youth boys' Ice Wolves and the Blade Runners sled hockey team.

This partnership is rooted in a love for hockey, but it extends far beyond the rink.

Both organizations work passionately to help the community through volunteerism, fundraising, and community events. The Ice Wolves and Sandia Area have teamed up to support Locker #505, a local nonprofit that provides clothing and essential items to school-aged children. Sandia Area volunteers were joined by members of the Mustangs, the Ice Wolves' girls' youth team, this summer to sort clothing donations.

It's a great example of what can happen when community organizations work together, and Sandia Area is just getting started.

A Partnership You'll See Around the Rink

As part of the new sponsorship, Sandia Area's logo will be featured on the ice and throughout Outpost Ice Arenas. The sponsorship was taken one step further with a custom design for the Ice Wolves' Zamboni, affectionately known as "The Zam."

The design features topographical lines inspired by the Sandia Mountains, along with the Ice Wolves and Sandia Area logos—a unique nod to the New Mexico community both organizations call home.

Sandia Area is excited to support the Ice Wolves, youth hockey and the many young athletes who are finding community, confidence, and opportunity on the ice.

The 2026–2027 season kicks off September 11, 2026, with a home game against the Odessa Jackalopes. Sandia Area and the Ice Wolves are looking forward to the season and even more so, to the impact in the community that will be made together.