At Colorado Mesa University, the football program’s identity is tightly woven with the men who once wore its jersey as players. Over the years, a distinctive pattern has emerged: many of the team’s most influential coaches began their journeys as student‑athletes, mastering the rigors of the field before returning to guide the next generation.
Maverick Legacy on the Western Slope
Trevor Wikre epitomizes that tradition. A 2009 graduate with degrees in physical education and adapted physical education, he earned All‑Conference and All‑American honors while playing defensive tackle and offensive guard. In his senior season, Wikre made a striking sacrifice — opting to amputate his dislocated pinkie — to remain on the roster. It was during those grueling practices that he met his wife, Traci Wikre, and the couple now raises their children in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Ryan Whittington’s path reflects a similar commitment to giving back. He played for the Mavericks from 2002 to 2006 before launching a coaching career that included a stint as head coach at Rifle High School. His return to CMU was driven by a desire to contribute to the university that shaped him, and his presence on the staff has reinforced the program’s deep roots in the Western Slope community.
Donnie Holmes brings a professional pedigree to the Division II level. Drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1984, he spent several seasons in the NFL before transitioning to coaching. Now he mentors the wide‑receiver corps, infusing the team with the discipline and insight he gained on the biggest stages of the sport.
Together, these coaches illustrate how Colorado Mesa’s football program leverages its alumni network to sustain success. Their stories — marked by personal sacrifice, community engagement, and professional achievement — reinforce a culture where former players become architects of future triumphs, embodying the Maverick spirit both on and off the field.