UTRGV Football Broadcast Team Announcement
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) is excited to announce the lineup for its football broadcasts this season, featuring talented professionals with extensive experience in the Valley sports scene. The broadcasts will be available on ESPN+, with Mark May as the play-by-play announcer, Aaron Saenz providing color commentary, and Jaeda Rael serving as the sideline reporter.
Meet the Announcers
Mark May: A Valley Sports Legend
Mark May has been a prominent figure in sports broadcasting since December 1985. He began his career as a color commentator for Pan American University men’s basketball radio broadcasts. Over time, he transitioned to various roles, including halftime host and play-by-play announcer, demonstrating his versatility and depth of knowledge.
- Broadcasting Achievements: May has been recognized five times by the Texas School Public Relations Association for excellence in live sportscasts, highlighting his long-term commitment to quality sports coverage.
- Career Highlights: His broadcasting journey includes covering Pan American baseball and basketball games both on radio and local television. Notably, May called Hal Ogletree’s 1,000th win in baseball.
- Community Engagement: Mark has been an active member of the Rio Grande Valley sports community, also serving as play-by-play announcer for local teams such as the Rio Grande Valley Vipers since 2018.
Aaron Saenz: A Dynamic Voice of Football
Aaron Saenz began his broadcasting career in 2011 and quickly became a well-known figure across the Valley as a color commentator for Harlingen CISD football games. His extensive background in sports broadcasting, complemented by a deep-rooted love for football, has made him a trusted voice for sports fans in the region.
- Roots in the Valley: Growing up in Rio Grande City, Saenz inherited a passion for sports from his father who coached high school football.
- Career Development: He has provided both play-by-play and color commentary for various games throughout South Texas. His work also includes contributions to UTRGV football broadcasts, enhancing the overall experience for fans.
Jaeda Rael: Emerging Talent in Sports Broadcasting
Jaeda Rael has made a significant impact as a rising star in sports journalism. Now in her second season as the lead sideline reporter for UTRGV Athletics, Rael has developed a strong rapport with fans and athletes alike.
- Broadcasting Experience: In her first season, Rael served as the sideline reporter for UTRGV basketball and baseball. Her versatility is evidenced by her previous roles in producing weekly sports recap videos on social media.
- Educational Background: An aspiring journalist, Rael is studying mass communications with a focus on broadcasting and is expected to graduate in spring 2026.
The Importance of Local Sports Broadcasting
The inclusion of seasoned professionals like May and Saenz, alongside emerging talents like Rael, highlights UTRGV’s commitment to delivering high-quality sports coverage. This collaboration aims to engage the community and enhance the viewing experience for fans watching the games on ESPN+.
How to Watch UTRGV Football
Fans can catch all UTRGV football home games on ESPN+. Stay updated with the latest sports news and announcements by following UTRGV Athletics on social media platforms.
Conclusion
With a lineup that combines experience and youthful enthusiasm, UTRGV’s football broadcasts promise to engage and captivate sports fans throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or new to the UTRGV community, tuning in will offer you a rich experience filled with insight and passion from a deeply invested broadcast team.
This exciting new venture marks yet another step in enhancing local sports culture and providing fans with the coverage they deserve. Don’t miss out on the action this season!
