UTRGV Athletics: Empowering the Rio Grande Valley Through Community Service
A Commitment to Community Engagement
RIO GRANDE VALLEY – Two years ago, during a free track and field clinic in Brownsville, UTRGV sophomore and track athlete Jermarrion Stewart found himself racing alongside a determined young athlete. The experience struck a chord with him: "He was a great athlete and a genuinely funny, hard-working kid. I remember being that age and wishing for guidance from college students like I was giving him." The interaction blossomed into a lasting mentorship, showcasing how UTRGV student-athletes are making significant impacts in their community.
Since the launch of the #RISEup initiative in 2021, UTRGV Athletics has prioritized community engagement. The Brownsville clinic is merely one of numerous outreach events that highlight the commitment of UTRGV athletes to social responsibility in South Texas.
Top-Tier Community Service Rankings
Engagement with the community isn’t just a side project for UTRGV; it’s a fundamental aspect of the athletic program. UTRGV boasts a ranking among the top 10 athletic departments in the nation for community service efforts, which underscores the remarkable dedication of its student-athletes.
In the 2023-24 academic year, UTRGV student-athletes logged a commendable 5,042 hours of community service, positioning them sixth nationally among 362 Division I athletic programs. This impressive achievement marks the third consecutive year that UTRGV has secured a top 10 ranking, following seventh place in 2022-23 and eighth in 2021-22.
Chasse Conque, vice president and director of UTRGV Athletics, emphasizes the significance of these accomplishments: "To finish in the top 10 for the third straight year speaks volumes about our student-athletes. It demonstrates their commitment to #RISEup and support the communities we serve." UTRGV is notably the only Texas athletic department to achieve this ranking, trailing behind institutions such as Boston College and North Dakota.
Exemplifying Core Values
UTRGV President Guy Bailey commended the student-athletes for their dedication to community service: "I am proud of the way our young men and women represent our university and region through service. Their hard work reflects their commitment to improving the quality of life for themselves and the entire Valley community."
Specialized Community Outreach by Programs
In addition to achieving a sixth overall finish, UTRGV has seven programs ranking in the top 10 of their respective sports:
- Men’s Track & Field and Cross Country: First
- Men’s Golf: Fourth
- Women’s Golf: Sixth
- Baseball: Seventh
- Women’s Track & Field and Cross Country: Seventh
- Men’s Soccer: Eighth
- Men’s Basketball: Ninth
This accomplishment highlights the breadth of community involvement showcased by UTRGV’s athletic programs.
Commitment to Service Across the Valley
The UTRGV Vaqueros are unwavering in their mission to serve the communities of the Rio Grande Valley. Activities vary from hosting free sports clinics to actively participating in local youth programs. For instance, the women’s tennis team recently conducted a free clinic in Brownsville, attracting over 200 children.
Impactful Community Service Hours
Five UTRGV athletic programs reported an average of 20 or more hours dedicated to community service:
- Women’s Golf: 30 hours
- Baseball: 23 hours
- Women’s Track & Field: 22 hours
- Men’s Cross Country: 21 hours
- Volleyball: 20 hours
The women’s golf team notably achieved a perfect score of 100/100 for impact thanks to 304 service hours contributed across nine different organizations, including the local Food Bank RGV.
The baseball program focused on mentoring youth in the Valley, dedicating 752 hours to various camps and even visiting the Edinburg Nursing and Rehabilitation Center to engage with residents.
In total, the UTRGV track and field/cross country teams contributed an impressive 1,749 hours of service, engaging the entire team in community projects such as cleanups and youth clinics. Additionally, the volleyball team participated in 377 hours of service across 13 organizations, including the Special Olympics, demonstrating a versatile approach to outreach.
Conclusion: A Bright Future
Through efforts like the #RISEup program, UTRGV Athletics continues to set a remarkable example of community service in the Rio Grande Valley. By engaging local youth, enhancing lives through sports, and building meaningful relationships, UTRGV exemplifies the heart of athletic engagement. The commitment to community not only enhances the student-athlete experience but also enriches the lives of those around them, solidifying UTRGV’s role as a key player in the local community.
