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Aug. 13, 2009 Whether he is doing sit ups with players rehabbing from injuries, making the final arrangements for team movie night or just shooting the breeze with whoever is in ear shot, one thing is certain about UTEP Director of Football operations/assistant Nate Poss. Camp Socorro, and Miner football for that matter, just wouldn't be the same without him around.Poss, who has a hand in nearly every aspect of UTEP's program, has been affiliated with the Miners since March 1997. He was hired by then UTEP head coach Charlie Bailey as his director of operations, a position which prior to his arrival did not exist. "When I first came to UTEP, I just wanted to get into Division I football," Poss said. "The longer I have stayed, the more I have developed a lot of pride and feelings toward UTEP and El Paso. I have a lot of loyalty to the school, the football program and the athletic department." The sentiments of Poss are certainly shared by those in the UTEP football program, players and coaches alike. "Nate Poss is a great guy," senior offensive lineman Cameron Raschke said. "He does so much at the university that no one even realizes, since most of it is behind the scenes. He takes care of us of all, and we really appreciate him." "Nate is the director of this whole thing here at Camp Socorro," head coach Mike Price. "He is the experienced veteran. He knows everybody in town. He gets more things done than anybody could possibly do. This is a big event that we put on here. There is a lot of work to it, and he has really done a super job." When he was brought in by Bailey, Poss was asked to help out with the coaching staff, assist with academics and oversee all the travel arrangements.
While his duties have certainly evolved over the years, both as result of coaching changes and just the natural growth of his position, Poss' approach and attitude to his job have been constant.
"Your role is to keep everything running smoothly as possible, both in season and out of season," Poss said. "You have to be flexible, understanding and tireless. While the hours aren't always conducive, I wouldn't change it anything. "The people you meet through the years are a part of you for the rest of your life. They are like family to me. Quintin Demps and Lee Mays have stayed with me when they come back into town to visit."
 
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