UTRGV Vaqueros Host Free Youth Track & Field Clinic in Brownsville
RIO GRANDE VALLEY – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros track & field and cross country teams recently held a successful free youth clinic at the newly renovated Sams Memorial Stadium in Brownsville. This event marks the third consecutive year the program has engaged with the local youth, emphasizing the importance of athletic development and community involvement.
Engaging Youth in Athletics
The clinic welcomed approximately 35 eager participants, ranging from first to eighth grade. Over the course of the event, UTRGV student-athletes led various drills at four engaging stations focused on block starts, jumping techniques, hurdles, and reaction time improvements. The mentorship provided was vital for fostering a love for the sport among the youth.
Skills Development Stations
Participants were divided by age group to ensure tailored instruction. Each station was designed with specific objectives to enhance their skills:
- Block Starts: Youth learned the fundamentals of setting up their blocks and improving their starting technique, which is crucial for sprinting events.
- Jumping Techniques: Through structured exercises, children practiced their jumping skills, learning the proper mechanics that can help them excel in long jump and triple jump events.
- Hurdling: Young athletes were introduced to hurdle techniques, helping them navigate this exciting track challenge with confidence.
- Reaction Time Training: Fast reaction times can significantly enhance performance, and the drills focused on this key area helped participants improve their readiness.
Community Collaboration
Head coach Shareese Hicks expressed gratitude towards the Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) and Athletic Director Gilbert Leal for their cooperation in utilizing the stadium. This partnership exemplifies the community’s commitment to encouraging youth sports development.
A Focus on Fun and Fundamentals
The philosophy behind this clinic is to make athletics accessible and enjoyable while instilling foundational skills. Hicks noted, "They say children are the future, and with our sport, we really, really love to make an impact." The approach varied by age; older participants received more technical coaching, while younger ones engaged in fun-filled activities designed to develop their enthusiasm for track and field.
Building Future Stars
The UTRGV Vaqueros are not just about developing local talent; they aim to inspire the next generation of athletes. Hicks highlighted the rewarding experience of watching student-athletes share knowledge they’ve acquired from their own coaches, fostering a supportive environment for the youth.
Looking Ahead
The UTRGV track & field/cross country program is committed to hosting more events like this in the future, aiming to cultivate interest in athletics and perhaps even nurture future Olympians. The camaraderie developed during these clinics helps build a strong foundation for the athletes, enhancing the community’s sports culture.
For more information on the UTRGV athletics program, interested individuals can visit the UTRGV Athletics website.
Get Involved and Stay Connected
To stay updated on upcoming events and connect with the UTRGV community, follow the program on social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
By fostering a supportive environment for young athletes, UTRGV not only aims to enhance their skills but also nurtures a love for sports that can lead to lifelong athletic pursuits.
