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Texas Border Business

By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business

McALLEN, Texas – McAllen District 1 Commissioner Tony Aguirre used personal stories from his childhood baseball experience to underscore the value of youth sports during a June 23 press conference announcing the 2026 PONY Summer Super Series International Tournament of Champions at the McAllen Youth Baseball Complex.

Aguirre recalled playing baseball in McAllen’s neighborhood leagues, including the Southern League, where he was named Most Valuable Pitcher at age 12. He said he never considered himself the league’s best pitcher but credited his team’s success for earning the recognition. He also shared a memory from a city tournament game against Mission, a team he described as highly talented. Aguirre said his team fell behind 12-0 after two innings, and although they ultimately lost 14-13, the experience remained one of his strongest baseball memories. “Those are the kinds of memories that stay with you,” he said.

Speaking about the upcoming tournament, Aguirre said McAllen is proud to host athletes, coaches, and families from across the United States and Mexico. He invited residents to support the tournament, scheduled for July 23-26, and said the community would have an opportunity to watch talented young players compete. “You never truly realize how much talent is out there until these players arrive and take the field,” he said. Aguirre also announced that the official opening ceremony will be held July 22 at 6 p.m. at Oval Park outside the McAllen Convention Center.

Aguirre thanked the employees who maintain the McAllen Youth Baseball Complex, including those responsible for field preparation, landscaping, concessions, and facility upkeep. He said the success of the complex depends on the people who work behind the scenes every day. “This community thanks you for everything you do,” he said. Aguirre added that the city would continue supporting and investing in the facility, which he described as the result of decades of growth and community commitment.

Assistant City Manager Elvira Alonzo also addressed the gathering and emphasized the teamwork required to host major sporting events. She thanked city staff and the PONY League for bringing the tournament to McAllen. “Sports tourism continues to be a meaningful part of who we are as a city,” Alonzo said. She noted that events such as the Summer Super Series bring athletes, families, and visitors to McAllen while supporting local hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions. Alonzo encouraged visitors to explore the city and said the tournament reflects McAllen’s commitment to youth, families, and community engagement.

Parks and Recreation Director Denny Meline said the city’s parks and recreational facilities continue to serve as gathering places that bring residents and visitors together. Referencing the movie Field of Dreams, Meline told attendees, “If you build it, they will come.” He said he was especially proud of the McAllen Youth Baseball Complex and invited the community to attend a free screening of Angels in the Outfield on July 25 as part of the city’s Movies in the Park program. Meline also thanked city departments and community partners for helping make the tournament and related activities possible.

Throughout his remarks, Aguirre emphasized the role of youth sports in teaching character, discipline, and teamwork. He said sports help young people understand that success is achieved through cooperation and support from others. “No one can overcome life’s challenges alone,” he said. Aguirre credited coaches, families, and community leaders for helping provide opportunities for young athletes and said McAllen is “very, very proud” to welcome participants and visitors for the inaugural international tournament.