UTRGV hosts first public practice: 'A historic day'

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) – It was a historic evening for the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s football team as it held its first public practice.

Over 2,500 Vaquero fans gathered at Richard Flores Stadium to see the team suit up in full pads. It was a typical practice format, from drills to offense vs. defense.

UTRGV’s first season is still a year away, but Head Coach Travis Bush was pleased by his team’s energy and effort Monday evening.

“It was good. It could have been better," Bush said. "It could have been worse, but I think you saw guys flying around. Were there mistakes? Of course, but it’s only our second day of pads. They’re learning a new offensive and defensive system, going to class, trying to find where to get the best tacos in town. There’s a lot of things on their mind right now, but I thought the effort was good. Guys were getting after each other but also taking care of each other as well.”

The band, cheer, dance and drill teams also performed prior to practice, generating more buzz around the program. 

As of today, 5,500 season tickets have already been sold, and only 500 remain. The University still has work to do heading into 2025, which includes stadium renovations at Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium and finishing construction of the Vaquero Performance Center.