The Five Best Black Players in El Paso Professional Baseball History

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Glenn Braggs played in 117 games for the 1985 Double-A El Paso Diablos, a first place team that went 86-50 and lost in the Texas League Championship Series to the Jackson Mets. Braggs hit .310, hit 20 home runs and drove in 103 runs that year. He later played seven seasons in the major leagues with the Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds. Braggs won a World Series championship with Cincinnati in 1990.

Pat Listach played in 49 games for the 1991 Diablos, splitting time at second base and shortstop. That year’s Diablos team finished in first place and lost to the Shreveport Captains in the Texas League Championship Series. Listach played six seasons in the major leagues with the Brewers and Houston Astros. He was named American League Rookie of the Year in 1992.

Troy O’Leary played the entire 1992 season with the Diablos, hitting .334 with five home runs and 79 RBIs. He played 11 years in the major leagues with the Brewers, Boston Red Sox, Montreal Expos and Chicago Cubs. O’Leary piled up 1,100 hits in the majors and reached the MLB postseason with the Red Sox and Cubs.

Gary Sheffield was also part of a first place Diablos team in 1988. That year’s El Paso club lost to the Tulsa Drillers in the Texas League Championship Series. Sheffield went on to be a nine-time MLB All-Star, a National League batting champion and a World Series champion with the 1997 Florida Marlins. His 509 home runs are the 26th most in MLB history.

Greg Vaughn was Sheffield’s teammate on the 1988 Diablos. He hit .301 with a team leading 28 home runs and 105 RBIs that year. Vaughn went on to become a four-time MLB All-Star and hit 355 homers in his 15-year MLB career. He helped the San Diego Padres reach the 1998 World Series.

Southwest University Park to Hold Virtual Job Fair for 2021 Gameday and Event Staff

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CLICK HERE TO APPLY

EL PASO – March 1, 2021 – Southwest University Park, home of the El Paso Chihuahuas and El Paso Locomotive FC, will host its 2021 job fair, virtually, via prescheduled individual in person appointments and web-based interviews.

Southwest University Park hiring managers are looking for qualified, hardworking candidates with great guest service skills who can work baseball and soccer home games as well as other sporting and non-sporting events in a variety of different positions.

Any interested candidates should go to SouthwestUniversityPark.com, or CLICK HERE. After submitting a resume, qualified applicants will then be able to select a time and date for a socially distant in-person or web-based interview, with the respective hiring manager.

Candidates must be 17 years of age to apply, must be able to pass a background check, and must be able to work all home games and additional events as needed.

Southwest University Park is looking to fill the following positions:

  • Guest Services
  • Cleaning Crew
  • Retail
  • Ushers
  • Ticket Takers
  • Cash Room Attendants
  • Parking Lot Attendants
  • Facilities and Grounds Crew
  • Security
  • Game Day Entertainment Staff
  • Bark Brigade
  • Kids Playground Attendants
  • 50/50 Raffle Sellers
  • Bat Boy/Clubhouse

The El Paso Chihuahuas, El Paso Locomotive FC, and Leg Up Entertainment are proud to be equal opportunity employers.

Professional Sports Catering, LLC, the official food and beverage provider of Southwest University Park, is not hiring at this time.

Chihuahuas to Host Virtual 9-1-5K Presented by Texas Gas Service

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EL PASO – September 15, 2020 – The El Paso Chihuahuas announced today their first virtual race, the 9-1-5K presented by Texas Gas Service. Named after El Paso’s area code “915”, registration for the virtual 5K run/walk will begin today (9/15) and conclude on September 30 and will benefit the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) relief efforts.

Registration is $30 per person with proceeds benefiting the El Paso Chihuahuas Foundation. Included in the fee is a participation tee shirt and one $9 voucher for a future Monday-Wednesday 2021 Chihuahuas game. For each entry sold, one voucher will be also donated to a frontline worker who has been helping those affected by COVID-19.

Participants will have one week to complete the 5K starting on Thursday, October 1 and ending on Thursday, October 8. Each participant may choose to walk, jog, and/or run and the 5K may take place outdoors, indoors, on a treadmill, etc. Each participant’s distance must be logged using any step app on any device (not included in the entry fee and is at participant’s own cost) and a photo of the distance must be submitted to info@epchihuahuas.com with the headline “9-1-5K Completed.”

Participants are also encouraged to take photos and tag @epchihuahuas on social media with the hashtag “#EP915K” for a chance to be featured on the respective Chihuahuas accounts.

Availability is limited and the event is expected to sell out. Fans may register HERE. Additional online fees may apply. Tee shirts will be mailed and/or available for pick up on a future date.

The El Paso Chihuahuas Foundation was established in 2014 to create a positive financial and cultural impact on families and children in the community through creative programs and events.

For more information, visit epchihuahuas.com, text (915) 533-BASE or email info@epchihuahuas.com.

Chihuahuas help local food bank achieve its mission 

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El Pasoans Fighting Hunger among CommUNITY grant recipients

The El Paso Chihuahuas have partnered with El Pasoans Fighting Hunger for as long as the team has been an existence, establishing ties with the nearby food bank during the team’s inaugural season of 2014. From hosting staff volunteer events to conducting food drives at the ballpark, the Chihuahuas have seen EPFH’s important work in the community up close.

Given that longstanding relationship, the Chihuahuas’ front office didn’t have to look far when deciding which organization to nominate for one of Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY grants.

“We are proud to see our friends at EPFH benefit from the generosity of MILB Charities,” said Brad Taylor, the Chihuahuas’ senior vice president and general manager. “Their work in El Paso and the surrounding areas is never ending and this will surely help their mission.”

That mission, according to EPFH, is to “combat the hunger crisis in our region by strategically procuring and distributing nutritious food through community partners,” crucial work with a need that has grown significantly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The El Paso community has been impacted so severely by the pandemic that EPFH has already surpassed its 2019 food distribution numbers. Last year the food bank distributed more than 32.5 million pounds of food in the Borderland area; this year through May, EPFH has already distributed more than 50 million pounds, with 15 million pounds distributed in May alone.

What does all that mean for the children, single-parent households, veterans, senior citizens and working class families the organization serves? Simply stated, quite a lot.

EPFH has been providing food to 8,000 families daily via their drive thru program since the beginning of the pandemic — numbers are on par with what food banks in much larger markets like Detroit and Chicago but with a fraction the staff. A member of Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger relief network, the organization also recently launched a home delivery service for families impacted by COVID-19 as well as seniors and persons with disabilities.

Of course, getting that much food into the community requires a lot of volunteers, and EPFH does its best to keep everyone safe in the age of social distancing. The $500 grant on behalf of MiLB Charities will help toward the purchase of food boxes, of course, but also personal protective equipment for volunteers to give them peace of mind to continue their efforts.

“We are thankful for this generous gift, which will provide 3,500 meals to El Pasoans who are struggling with food insecurity,” said EPFH chief executive officer Susan Goodell, who added that the total will actually be 7,000 meals when you add a matching gift from the El Paso Chihuahuas Foundation. “These food boxes will not only provide individuals and families with the nourishment needed to sustain themselves, but will allow households to redistribute their expenditures as necessary – on housing, utilities, medical care or education needs. As a result, parents of food insecure households will begin to create a path for financial and longer-term sustainability.”

In addition to El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, the other winning organizations of a CommUNITY grant were Dreams Go On (Altoona Curve), the Young Black Leadership Alliance (Charlotte Knights), Charleston Hope (Charleston RiverDogs) and the Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama (Birmingham Barons).

“A program like this one shows that even without games, Minor League Baseball can deeply enhance and improve their communities,” said Taylor.

Chihuahuas and Locomotive Front Office Staffs to Offer Support to Area Non-Profit Organizations 

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The El Paso Chihuahuas and El Paso Locomotive FC announced today a plan to assist area non-profit organizations (NPOs).

NPOs interested in having a Chihuahuas and/or Locomotive staff member assist their organization, CLICK HERE!

EL PASO – July 8, 2020 – The El Paso Chihuahuas and El Paso Locomotive FC announced today a plan to assist area non-profit organizations (NPOs). This program will provide Chihuahuas and Locomotive staff with expertise in marketing, promotion, development, operations, and general administration to serve the non-profit community which has been so negatively affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“One of our greatest strengths and most significant assets are the people who comprise the staffs of the Chihuahuas and Locomotive,” said MountainStar Sports Group President Alan Ledford. “We are in the live event business and during this window when those events are severely limited, we cannot provide the level of service and memorable experiences we strive to deliver at Southwest University Park. This is also a period filled with extraordinary challenges for our local non-profit organizations. While their traditional functions are impacted by the pandemic, we are proud to offer our staff to help these NPOs continue to fulfill their respective missions.”

The staffs of both teams will be working as part of the Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack and Locomotive Heart of Goal programs, both of which are presented by Helen of Troy. “The Pack” and Heart of Goal are El Paso-wide volunteer forces created to give back to the Sun City and surrounding region.

Joining with non-profit organizations and community partners, the two volunteer groups are made up of Chihuahuas and Locomotive staff, fans, players, and coaches with the mission of making a positive impact in our community. From building homes to sorting food, both teams have put in more than 750 community service hours annually.

“We said from the beginning that this would be about more than baseball,” said MountainStar Sports Group Sr. Vice President and Chihuahuas General Manager Brad Taylor. “With a little more bandwidth than usual for the baseball staff, we have the chance to truly be effective and even more helpful in our community.”

While Minor League Baseball announced last week that the 2020 season will not be played, the United Soccer League (USL) Championship will return to play on July 11. The competition format and revised schedule for the USL was recently announced.

Non-profit organizations interested in having a Chihuahuas or Locomotive staff member assist your non-profit organization, CLICK HERE. Organizations must be registered as a 501(c)(3).

For more information, contact Angela Olivas at aolivas@epchihuahuas.com, visit epchihuahuas.com, text (915) 533-BASE, or email info@epchihuahuas.com.

Chihuahuas, Bravos, Locomotive to Unify Borderplex

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EL PASO – April 28, 2020 – The region’s three professional sports teams – El Paso Chihuahuas, El Paso Locomotive FC, and FC Juarez Bravos – announced today a plan to further unify the Borderplex community during the COVID-19 crisis.

The teams will turn on their respective stadium lights and videoboards as a symbolic gesture and to display messages to the binational region on Wednesday, April 29 and Wednesday, May 6 from 8-8:30 p.m.

The messages of strength, courage, and unity will be displayed on the videoboards at Southwest University Park and Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez in both English and Spanish. The same will also be broadcast live on each teams’ Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites.

“Sports has a unique way of bringing people from different backgrounds together under one banner to cheer for their team,” said MountainStar Sports Group President Alan Ledford. “In this case, and in our roles as the symbolic town squares for El Paso and Juarez, we are proud to use our status and work with the Bravos to provide this gesture of support during a challenging and unique time in our history. We all look forward to the time when we’re together again in our respective stadiums, but until then we appreciate the opportunity to do our part to bring the region together in a virtual manner.”

“Together, with strength and courage, we are united as one,” said FC Juarez President Guillermo Cantu. “By bringing the Bravos, Chihuahuas and Locomotive together, we can show the community we are united, and we look forward to the day we see our fans in our stadiums.”

Coupled with the unified messaging, the Chihuahuas, Locomotive and Bravos are asking fans to donate to the El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank to help those directly impacted by COVID-19. The Foster Family Foundation & Hunt Family Foundation, via the MountainStar Sports Group Foundation, will match each dollar donated up to $1 million to assist the Food Bank. Every dollar donated feeds up to seven families.

While the region continues to practice social distancing, the Chihuahuas, Locomotive, and Bravos want the community to feel connected while in a time of isolation and show solidarity between the two cities. All three organizations encourage fans to wear their respective teams’ jerseys to show support for the effort and to hashtag: #StaySafeAtHome and #UnitedWeAreOne.

WHO: El Paso Chihuahuas, FC Juarez Bravos, El Paso Locomotive
WHAT: Series of messages to connect the Borderplex region in a time of COVID-19 crisis. Encourage support for and donations to El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank.
WHEN: April 29 and May 6 from 8-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Southwest University Park
Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez
Chihuahuas Social Media: @epchihuahuas
Bravos Social Media: @fcjuarezoficial
Locomotive Social Media: @eplocomotivefc
WHERE TO DONATE: El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank (CLICK HERE)
__

EL PASO – 28 de abril de 2020 – Los tres equipos deportivos profesionales de la región – El Paso Chihuahuas, El Paso Locomotive FC y FC Juarez Bravos – anunciaron hoy un plan para unificar aún más a la comunidad Borderplex durante la crisis COVID-19.

Los equipos encenderán sus respectivas luces de estadio y pantallas LED gigantes como un gesto simbólico y mostrarán mensajes a la región binacional el miércoles 29 de abril y el miércoles 6 de mayo de 8 a 8:30 p.m.

Los mensajes de fortaleza, coraje y unidad se mostrarán en los tableros de video del Southwest University Park y el Estadio Olímpico Universitario Benito Juárez en inglés y español. También se transmitirá en vivo en los sitios de Facebook, Twitter e Instagram de cada equipo.

“El deporte tiene una forma única de reunir a personas de diferentes orígenes bajo una sola bandera para animar a su equipo,” dijo el presidente de MountainStar Sports Group, Alan Ledford. “En este caso, y en nuestro papel de plazas simbólicas para El Paso y Juárez, estamos orgullosos de utilizar nuestro estatus y trabajar con los Bravos para proporcionar este gesto de apoyo durante un momento desafiante y único en nuestra historia. Todos esperamos con ansias el momento en que volvamos a estar juntos en nuestros respectivos estadios, pero hasta que esto suceda apreciamos la oportunidad de hacer nuestra parte para unir a la región de manera virtual.”

“Juntos, con fuerza y coraje, estamos unidos como uno solo,” dijo el presidente del FC Juárez, Guillermo Cantú. “Al reunir a los Bravos, Chihuahuas y Locomotive, podemos mostrar a nuestra comunidad que estamos unidos y esperamos con ansias el día en que veamos a nuestros fanáticos de regreso a nuestros estadios.”

Junto con el mensaje unificado, Chihuahuas, Locomotive y Bravos están pidiendo a los fanáticos que donen al Banco de Alimentos de El Pasoans Fighting Hunger para ayudar a aquellos directamente afectados por COVID-19. Foster Family Foundation y Hunt Family Foundation, a través de MountainStar Sports Group Foundation, igualarán cada dólar donado hasta $ 1 millón para ayudar al Banco de Alimentos. Cada dólar donado alimenta hasta siete familias.

Mientras la región continúa practicando el distanciamiento social, los equipos deportivos Chihuahuas, Locomotive y Bravos quieren que la comunidad se sienta conectada en un momento de aislamiento y muestren solidaridad entre las dos ciudades. Las tres organizaciones alientan a los fanáticos a usar las camisetas de sus respectivos equipos para mostrar su apoyo al esfuerzo y para etiquetar: #StaySafeAtHome y #UnitedWeAreOne.

QUIEN: Chihuahuas de El Paso, FC Juárez Bravos, Locomotive de El Paso
QUÉ: Serie de mensajes para conectar la región de Borderplex en un momento de crisis por el COVID-19. Fomentar el apoyo y donaciones al Banco de Alimentos de El Pasoans Fighting Hunger.
CUANDO: 29 de abril y 6 de mayo de 8 a 8:30 p.m.
DONDE: Southwest University Park
Estadio Olímpico Universitario Benito Juárez
Chihuahuas Social Media: @epchihuahuas
Bravos Social Media: @fcjuarezoficial
Redes sociales de locomotoras: @eplocomotivefc
DONDE DONAR: El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank (HAGA CLIC AQUÍ)

 

Chihuahuas Cheer and Dance Classic Registration Now Open

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EL PASO – January 6, 2020 – Leg Up Entertainment and Superior Festivals is proud to present the Chihuahuas Cheer and Dance Classic to be held on Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Southwest University Park!

Teams from the southwest region are invited to participate! The dance competition is slated for 8:30 a.m. with the cheer portion scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.

Registration closes on February 14, 2020 and payment deadline is February 21, 2020.

Registration fees are as follows:

DANCE (Groups and Solo):
$150 per team (seven or more)
$150 per ensemble
$150 per exhibition
$50 per solo routine

CHEER (Groups and Solo):
$150 per team
$50 per solo
$100 per exhibition

Please see below for rules and regulatios. CLICK HERE for more information.

TIME LIMITS
Team or Rec – Rules & Restrictions
• Each team will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds (150 seconds).
• Up to 90 seconds of the routine may be performed to music 60 seconds must equal cheer.
• No voice-overs or words may be recorded to make the team’s vocal projection sound louder.

All Star – Rules & Restrictions
• Each team will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds (150 seconds).
• Music is required for all of the routine.
• A .5 penalty will be assessed if music is not used for the entire routine.

BEST CHEERLEADER – RULES & RESTRICTIONS
• Each participant will perform for a maximum of 90 seconds and in the following order: three consecutive jumps, tumbling pass, and a cheer.
• Music IS NOT allowed.
• A partner may not be used during the performance.
• Judging is based on voice projection, showmanship, cheer execution, spirit, and ability in the areas of jumps and tumbling, as well as overall impression.
• There will be a .5 penalty if more than five tricks are performed in your cheer and a separate penalty if the routine exceeds the time limit.

TOP STUNT – RULES & RESTRICTIONS
• Groups of no more than four (4) cheerleaders. May have only one (1) male per group.
• Participants must be 9-12th grade and must be from the same squad/school/gym.
• Groups will have no more than 45 seconds to perform their stunt sequence.
• Each group must have at least one (1) extended stunt from a full down.
• Group will be dged on difficulty, execution, overall technique, and overall performance.

OVERALL GENERAL RULES
• All teams will follow standard competition and safety guidelines as printed on the waiver form.
• To ensure the competition runs as efficiently as possible, no teams will be allowed to change their performance order. Additionally, there will be no division changes allowed after the registration deadline. No refunds will be given once a team is registered.
• Before the day of competition, all participants must complete the Release and Waiver Form. This MUST be signed by Parent or Legal Guardian for the participant to be able to perform. All Participant forms must be given to the Registration Table upon checking into the competition.

COMPETITION SPECTATORS
Friends and families are more than welcome to watch the cheer & dance competition. Tickets will be sold through the Southwest University Park Box Office and can be purchased before and on the day of competition. Advanced ticket purchase is suggested. Click here to purchase.
Admission – $10 + Tax
Children under 3 – Free

REGISTRATION CHECKLIST
• Complete Cheer Registration Form
• Check division
• List number of participants in each specific division
• Indicate number of teams and total due
• Complete online registration
• Registration form should be completed by February 14, 2020. Payment should be completed and/or postmarked by February 21, 2020.

NO PERSONAL CHECKS
Methods of payment: School or business checks, money orders, school purchase orders or PayPal.

LATE FEE POLICY
It is extremely important we receive your payment before the deadline. If payment is not received by February 21, 2020, the prices will increase to:
Team – $200/team
Solos – $100/individual
Exhibition – $200/exhibition

REFUND POLICY
A full refund will be made for any registered event up to the designated cancellation deadline. After the designated deadline, there will be no refund and arrangements for full payment will need to be made. If payment is not made by the designated deadline, responsible parties will need to arrange for payment ASAP.

CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations of any registered event must be made in writing to Superior Festivals by the designated registration deadline.

Southwest University Park to Hold Job Fair for 2020 Gameday and Event Staff

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EL PASO – December 19, 2019 – Southwest University Park, home of the Chihuahuas and Locomotive, will host its 2020 job fair in a two-day event starting on Tuesday, January 14th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and concluding on Wednesday, January 15th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the WestStar Club at Southwest University Park.

Southwest University Park hiring managers are looking for qualified, hardworking candidates with great guest service skills who are able to work baseball and soccer home games as well as other sporting and non-sporting events in a variety of different positions.

Candidates must be 18 years of age to apply, must be able to pass a background check, and must be able to work all home games and additional events as needed. Interested candidates younger than 18 must send a resume or an email to the following Human Resources Jobs address: tripleaelpasojobs@gmail.com.

Southwest University Park is looking to fill the following positions for applicants 18 years or older:

•   Box Office Service and Cashiers
•   Cleaning Crew
•   Retail
•   Guest Services
•   Ushers
•   Ticket Takers
•   Cash Room Attendants
•   Parking Lot Attendants
•   Facilities and Grounds Crew
•   Security
•   Game Day Entertainment Staff
•   Bark Brigade and Social Square Staff
•   Kids Playground Attendants
•   50/50 Raffle Sellers
•   Part-Time Day Shift Administrative
•   Cashiers
•   Cooks
•   Line Managers
•   Suite Services
•   Wait Staff
•   Bartenders
•   Stand Managers
•   Expeditors
•   Warehouse

Candidates should enter through the Clock Tower/VIP Entrance on the corner of Durango St. and Franklin Ave. Candidates are urged to bring a resume and dress to impress. A positive, friendly attitude is essential. No calls please. Applicants who cannot attend can send their resumes to tripleaelpasojobs@gmail.com.

The El Paso Chihuahuas, El Paso Locomotive FC, and Leg Up Entertainment are proud to be equal opportunity employers.

Chihuahuas Team with El Paso Electric to Host Career Prep Series for High School Students

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EL PASO – November 4, 2019 – The El Paso Chihuahuas have teamed with El Paso Electric to offer high school students a look into the sports industry. The El Paso Chihuahuas Career Prep Program presented by El Paso Electric gives students a chance to learn about some of the careers within the sports industry outside of the playing field.

The career prep program, which take place at Southwest University Park, provides students with an inside look into the Chihuahuas organization. The one-day program is a classroom-style setting with instruction from Chihuahuas front office employees. It is designed for students interested in business, marketing, operations or other careers in the sports industry.

Throughout the day-long program, students will practice problem solving skills, create a in-game promotion, and get an inside understanding of the sports industry.

“It is a privilege to partner with El Paso Electric to provide such an incredible learning opportunity for high school students in our region,” said MountainStar Sports Group Sr. Vice President and General Manager Brad Taylor. “We all want these students to start looking for careers they will love.”

The program aims to prepare students who attend with the skills and knowledge for continuing education and the importance of internships and experience in the industry in an effort to prepare them for future success.

“El Paso Electric is a firm believer in the importance and value internships can have on a student’s education and career choice, which is why the Company offers various internship opportunities, including high school students in the region,” shares El Paso Electric Interim CEO Adrian J. Rodriguez. “With expanding industries in the borderplex area, our youth can explore a variety of career options all while staying local and helping move our community forward.”

The Chihuahuas Career Prep Program presented by El Paso Electric is open to high school students who are participating in a business and/or marketing class. Schools may apply for the program and classes will be chosen on a first come first served basis. Teachers may request dates beginning November 4th through December 6th (excluding November 27-November 29), and January 6th through January 31st.

For scheduling information, contact Kate Lewis at (915) 242-2029 or klewis@epchihuahuas.com.

Dates & Schools are listed below.

November 4 Socorro High School
Novemver 17 Pebble Hills High School
November 19 Chapin High School
December 2 Parkland High School
December 6 Canutillo High School
January 8 Del Valle High School
January 17 Bel Air High School
January 23 Austin High School

Santa Teresa High School Recipient of 2019 Howdy’s Field of Dreams

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EL PASO – February 28, 2019 – The El Paso Chihuahuas and Howdy’s are proud to announce that Santa Teresa High School is the recipient of the 2019 Howdy’s Field of Dreams, a program designed to help renovate a baseball facility in need of repair in the southwest region.

The ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled to take place Friday, March 1, 2019 at 5 p.m. on the high school’s baseball field. The ceremony will precede the in-state rivalry game between Santa Teresa and Gadsden High School.

“We are blessed and fortunate to be selected as this year’s recipient of the Howdy’s Field of Dreams,” said Santa Teresa Varsity Baseball Coach Gil Bailon. “Our team has been together for several years and we all cannot wait to step onto this incredible new field this year and many years in the future.”

Representatives from Howdy’s, the El Paso Chihuahuas, including Chico, and members of the Warriors’ baseball team will be in attendance.

“Howdy’s is proud to support the communities we serve, especially through our ongoing support to the ‘Field of Dreams Project’ with the El Paso Chihuahuas. Over the past five years, it has been rewarding to watch the high school fields at Irvin, Jefferson, Bel Air, Andress and the Ernie Rascon Memorial Field in Anthony come to life,” said VJ Smith, Corporate Affairs, Marathon Petroleum. “We are proud to be a part of these projects and it gives Howdy’s great pleasure to see the new field at Santa Teresa High School complete.”

“It is an honor to work with a company like Howdy’s who sees the importance of community investment,” said MountainStar Sports Group Senior Vice President and General Manager Brad Taylor. “Coach Bailon and Santa Teresa are perfect recipients for this project as there was a need to improve their field, their desire to perpetuate it, and their sincere appreciation to be selected.”

The renovations to the field began on February 11, 2019 and were completed by the Chihuahuas grounds crew. The renovations included the installation of 8,000 square feet of new sod, laser grading the infield clay, and the addition of new clay in the batters boxes and pitcher’s mound.

The Field of Dreams project completed its sixth year.

WHO: The El Paso Chihuahuas, Howdy’s, Santa Teresa High School

WHAT: Howdy’s Field of Dreams Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

WHEN: Friday, May 1, 2019 | 5 p.m.

WHERE: Santa Teresa High School Baseball Field

FORMER RECIPIENTS

2014   Jefferson High School

2015   Bel Air High School

2016 Andress High School

2017   Ernie Rascon Memorial Baseball Field (Anthony, TX)

2018   Irvin High School

Chihuahuas & Chick-fil-A to Partner for Paws for Presents Toy Drive

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Paws for Presents presented by Chick-fil-A will benefit the Child Crisis Center of El Paso & Jardin de los Niños in Las Cruces

EL PASO – November 27, 2018 -The El Paso Chihuahuas and area Chick-fil-A restaurants present “Paws for Presents”, a holiday toy drive assisting the Child Crisis Center of El Paso and Jardin de los Niños in Las Cruces.

The drive begins today, Tuesday, November 27th and continues through Saturday, December 15th. The Chihuahuas and Chick-fil-A request all gifts be new and not gift wrapped for children up to the age of 12.

“The Chihuahuas are proud to partner with Chick-fil-A on this special toy drive to help give kids in our region a smile and some toys during the holidays,” said MountainStar Sports Group Senior Vice President and Chihuahuas General Manager Brad Taylor.

Donations can be dropped off at any of the seven El Paso Chick-fil-A locations, the three Chick-fil-A locations in Las Cruces or the Chihuahuas Team Shop. The Team Shop is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

“We hope the El Paso and Las Cruces communities will come out and support the Paws for Presents Toy Drive so that we can bring some holiday cheer to those who are going through difficult times,” said Chick-Fil-A Operator Edgar Ortega. “In Chick-fil-A, our goal is to inspire people to take good care of each other. We look forward to seeing the joy on the faces of the people who are touched by our community’s generosity.”

Any monetary donations can be made at the Chihuahuas Team Shop located at Southwest University Park. Monetary donations will not be accepted at Chick-fil-A locations.

The Child Crisis Center was opened in 1980 and serves to “protect children from abuse and neglect by providing shelter, advocacy and family support services,” according to the website.

Jardin de los Niños opened in 1995 and serves to provide education, intervention and services to homeless or near homeless children.

For more information call Kate Lewis at (915) 242-2029.

PAWS FOR PRESENTS

WHAT: Paws for Presents presented by Chick-fil-A, a toy drive benefiting the Child Crisis Center of El Paso and Jardin de los Niños in Las Cruces. Toys must be new and unwrapped for children up to the age of 12.

WHEN: Tuesday, November 27, 2018 through Saturday, December 15th, 2018.

WHERE: Chick-fil-A area locations (see list below) and the Chihuahuas Team Shop at Southwest University Park.

CHICK-FIL-A LOCATIONS

El Paso, Texas

Chick-fil-A Sunland Park Mall; 750 Sunland Park Dr. VC-6, El Paso, TX 79912

Chick-fil-A Mesa Street; 7597 N. Mesa St., El Paso, TX 79912

Chick-fil-A North Hills; 10721 Gateway South Blvd, El Paso, TX 79934

Chick-fil-A Airway; 1300 Airway Blvd., El Paso, TX 79925

Chick-fil-A Cielo Vista Mall; 8401 Gateway West, El Paso, TX 79925

Chick-fil-A Zaragoza; 1840 N. Zaragoza Rd., El Paso, TX 79936

Chick-fil-A Montana; 12240 Montana Ave., El Paso, TX 79938

Las Cruces, NM

Chick-fil-A Mesilla Valley Mall; 700 S. Telshor Blvd. #1254, Las Cruces, NM 88011

Chick-fil-A University; 1105 E. University Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88001

Chick-fil-A Lohman; 2091 E. Lohman Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88001

Bank of America and Chihuahuas to Honor Veteran on Sunday

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Purchase Saturday Tickets Here |  Purchase Sunday Tickets Here |  Purchase Monday Tickets Here

EL PASO – June 30, 2017 – Army veteran Justin Griffin has been named the winner of the Bank of America Manager for a Day announced the Chihuahuas. Griffin, who was nominated via a social media contest, will fill the role on Sunday, July 2nd during the GECU Independence Day Celebration as the Chihuahuas take on the Reno Aces (Arizona Diamondbacks) at 7:05 p.m.

Griffin’s honor comes in addition to a $10 military offer on Zone E, K, L & Standing Room Only (SRO) tickets as well as the best postgame Fireworks Spectacular in El Paso on July 2nd and July 3rd.

“I can’t even put into words how thankful I am for my amazing wife, wonderful family, friends, and for such a great organization for even making this possible,” Griffin said. “This is truly an honor and a dream come true. I feel like a kid again!”

“Bank of America is thrilled to partner with the El Paso Chihuahuas on the Manager for a Day program to recognize a military family in the community,” said Kristi Marcum, El Paso Market President for Bank of America. “We are committed to honoring their service by creating greater economic mobility opportunities for our veterans across the country, whether that’s by committing to hire 10,000 veterans, providing financial training to service members and their families transitioning to civilian life, or working with nonprofits to provide housing and supportive services to our veterans.”

Born in Dallas, Texas on November 15, 1984, at the age of 19, Griffin joined the Army on September 30, 2004 and made his first deployment to Afghanistan with the 82nd Airborne Division out of Fort Bragg, N.C. Following his tour in Afghanistan, Griffin was assigned to Fort Bliss and deployed to Iraq with the 1st Armored Division.

During Griffin’s 12 years of service he received multiple badges, awards and medals. These include but are not limited to the Combat Action Badge, six Army Accommodation Medals, eight Army Achievement Medals, four Good Conduct Medals, and the Humanitarian Service Medal for his assistance with Hurricane Katrina relief. He was also awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Citation, U.S. Army Airborne Wings, U.S. Army Air Assault Wings and multiple foreign Parachutist Badges, to name a few.

Following his retirement, Griffin is now a stay at home dad to his two sons, Reece (3), and Bennett (1), and is a loving and devoted husband to his wife Karla.

“Along with Bank of America, the Chihuahuas are honored to announce Justin Griffin, a true American Hero, as the Manager for a Day,” said Chihuahuas Vice President and General Manager Brad Taylor. “His outstanding leadership skills and experience can only serve to motivate all around him.”

As the Bank of America Manager for a Day, Griffin will be given the following experiences:

  • Throw out a first pitch
  • Attend batting practice
  • Enjoy pre-game experiences
  • Meeting at the plate with managers and umpires
  • Be a part of the starting lineups
  • Four (4) tickets to Sunday’s game
  • Personalized jersey
  • On-field recognition
  • An inning on air with Tim Hagerty

Griffin was nominated by his wife, family and friends through a social media contest held by the Chihuahuas. Fans were asked to submit a veteran they felt deserved to be the Bank of America Manager for a Day along with a biography.

Four finalists will be honored during the game on Saturday, July 1st. They are Antonio Garcia, David Nevarez, Roman Sandoval, and Michael Velez.

As part of the GECU Independence Day Celebration, and to honor all military past and present, the Chihuahuas are offering $10 Zone E, K, L, and Standing Room Only (SRO) tickets for July 2nd and July 3rd. Tickets for military are available at GOVX.com or by visiting the Chihuahuas Durango Box Office located at Southwest University Park. Gates open at 6 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 3rd, respectively, with first pitch slated for 7:05 p.m. on both nights.

Plenty of great seats remain for the GECU Independence Day Celebration that includes three nights of Fireworks Spectacular! Fans are encouraged to purchase in advance as prices increase on day of game. Fans can buy tickets at EPChihuahuas.com or in person at the Durango or Santa Fe Box Offices. The Durango Box Office is open today through Monday, from 10 a.m. to end of the game and the Santa Fe Box Office opens at 2 p.m.

BANK OF AMERICA MANAGER FOR A DAY AWARD WINNER

JUSTIN GRIFFIN: Born in Dallas, Texas on November 15, 1984, at the age of 19, Griffin joined the Army on September 30, 2004 and made his first deployment to Afghanistan with the 82nd Airborne Division out of Fort Bragg, N.C. Following his tour in Afghanistan, Griffin was assigned to Fort Bliss and deployed to Iraq with the 1st Armored Division.

During Griffin’s 12 years of service he received multiple badges, awards and medals. These include but are not limited to the Combat Action Badge, six Army Accommodation Medals, eight Army Achievement Medals, four Good Conduct Medals, and the Humanitarian Service Medal for his assistance with Hurricane Katrina relief. He was also awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Citation, U.S. Army Airborne Wings, U.S. Army Air Assault Wings and multiple foreign Parachutist Badges, to name a few.

Following his retirement, Griffin is now a stay at home dad to his two sons, Reece (3), and Bennett (1), and is a loving and devoted husband to his wife Karla.

BANK OF AMERICA MANAGER FOR A DAY FINALISTS

ANTONIO GARCIA: Antonio Garcia served in the United States Army with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR) stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky. Garcia was an Aircraft Electrician, working on the UH60 Blackhawk.

During his years of service, he received the Air Medal for Persian Gulf Operations, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (for Persian Gulf Operations), the Army Commendation Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), and the Army Achievement Medal.

DAVID NEVAREZ: David Nevarez served as a Marine from Sept 7 1983 – July 7th 1991 as a Logistics Specialist at various Commands during his time in service. He spent many hours on the flight line and pier side ensuring all Marines and equipment were accounted for.

Nevarez was assigned to 5th Marine Regiment when they were called into Desert Storm and was part of the Logistical Team that assembled the Largest Amphibious Force since the Korean War and served on the USS Tripoli, USS Denver and USS Barbour County. He was part of Regimental Landing Team 5, the Forward Element of 5th Marines during Desert Storm and was assigned to Task Force Papa Bear.

Nevarez received numerous awards including the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Marine Good Conduct Medal with 1 Star, Humanitarian Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait), Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia), and the National Defense Medal & Combat Action Ribbon.

Nevarez is married to Sandra Nevarez has three children, Adeliade Redding of Jamul, California, and Esteban and Emilio Nevarez.

ROMAN SANDOVAL: Roman Sandoval is an Army Combat Veteran from El Paso. He enlisted in the US Army in 2001 and was stationed at Ft. Bliss as an Automated Logistics Specialist. Sandoval was a member of the 5/52 11th ADA Brigade’s 507th Maintenance Company.

While serving he earned numerous awards including the Unit Soldier of the Month, Battalion Soldier of the Quarter, and Brigade Soldier of the Year nominee, Army Service Ribbon, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

The only tour was a deployment for Sandoval was with the 507th to Iraq in 2003 at the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While serving, his unit was ambushed; nine friends and coworkers were killed in action while six others were captured as prisoners of war. He returned safely home.

MICHAEL VELEZ: Michael Velez joined the Marine Corps in September of 2008 and attended the Amphibious Assault Vehicle school and assigned to North Carolina with the 2nd AAV Battalion. Velez was attached to Bravo Company and began doing training for a deployment to Afghanistan. Deployed in December of 2009 to the Helmand Province in Southern Afghanistan, he was part of Operation Moshtarak or also known as “The Battle of Marjah” which was the biggest joint operation in Afghanistan to date.

Velez received numerous awards including the International Security Assistance Force Award (ISAF), a Navy Unit Commendation Award, and a Meritorious Mast given to me by my unit for actions in Afghanistan. He was Honorably Discharged in June of 2012.

Chihuahuas Unveil Stars & Stripes Jerseys & Caps

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

EL PASO – June 23, 2017 – It’s a Fireworks Spectacular! as the Chihuahuas celebrate America’s birthday with the unveiling of the Stars and Stripes jerseys and caps to be worn during the July 1st, 2nd and 3rd GECU Independence Day Celebration games.

The jerseys will accompany the best fireworks in El Paso beginning with a postgame Fireworks Spectacular presented by KVIA and KISS FM on July 1st, a special fireworks presentation on July 2nd and an extended postgame fireworks program on July 3rd. Sunday’s celebration will also feature the Bank of America Manager for the Day where the Chihuahuas will recognize a former veteran as submitted by fans.

Made by OT Sports, the jerseys showcase the patriotic red, white & blue colors. The jersey features a white color block on the top half of the bodice and blue across the bottom covered in opaque stars. Red piping separates the two halves. The sleeves are white with red and blue trim.

The Chihuahuas will auction the game-worn Stars and Stripes jerseys on July 3rd, with proceeds benefiting the El Maida Shriners and the Chihuahuas Foundation.

The New Era 59FIFTY fitted Stars and Stripes cap, which made its initial debut in 2008, can be seen across Minor and Major League Baseball during the Independence Day weekend around the country. In addition to the fitted caps, the Chihuahuas Team Shop will also offer adjustable caps for the first time.

Season Seat Holders will be granted early entry into the Wednesday, June 28th Chihuahuas game with the option to purchase the cap beginning at 5 p.m. at the Chihuahuas Team Shop on Durango. The cap will be made available to ticketed fans at 6 p.m. when gates open. Sales will open to the general public on Thursday morning, June 29th at 10 a.m. Limited quantities of caps are available.

Men’s and women’s patriotic-themed shirts as well as other merchandise are available now in the Chihuahuas Team Shop located on the corner of Durango and Franklin.

Gates for the July 3rd GECU Independence Day Celebration open at 5:30 p.m. with first pitch at 7:05 p.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the pregame festivities.

The Chihuahuas are offering special rates in Zone E, K, L and Standing Room Only for military members past and present with ID on July 2nd and 3rd. Tickets may be purchased at the Durango Box Office or online at GovX.com.

The GECU Independence Day Celebration is at the tail end of an eight-game homestand. The homestand opens with a four game slate versus the Sacramento River Cats (San Francisco Giants) on Monday, June 26th. The GECU Independence Day Celebration is part of a four game series against the Reno Aces (Arizona Diamondbacks).

Advanced purchase for the home series is encouraged. Purchasing early also gives fans a savings versus walk-up prices. Fans can buy tickets at EPChihuahuas.com or in person at the Durango or Santa Fe Box Offices (opens at 2 p.m. on gamedays only). The Durango Box Office is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

PURCHASE JULY 1 TICKETS HERE

PURCHASE JULY 2 TICKETS HERE

PURCHASE JULY 3 TICKETS HERE

Paws for Presents Toy Drive 2016

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Paws for Presents Toy Drive is BACK as the Chihuahuas Foundation, El Paso Fire Department and Operation Santa partner together again in 2016

EL PASO – November 30, 2016 -The El Paso Chihuahuas Foundation and the El Paso Fire Department present “Paws for Presents” for the third year, a holiday toy drive assisting Operation Santa, a Fort Bliss-based charity.

The drive will run from Thursday, December 1st through Saturday, December 24th. The Chihuahuas and the Fire Department request all gifts be new and not gift wrapped for children up to the age of 13. Monetary donations are also welcome with checks made payable to Operation Santa.

Anyone that brings a new toy for donation at the Durango Team Shop (located at 1 Ballpark Plaza on Durango St) during their normal operating hours will receive a 5% holiday savings upon check out on your entire purchase. Fans can also donate new or gently used toys at any of the 34 El Paso neighborhood fire stations.

“Santa Chico” will also be available for a meet/greet and picture time in the Durango Team Shop on the first three Saturdays in December (December 3rd, 10th & 17th) from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Donate a toy, do some holiday shopping and take a family picture with Chico!

The Durango Team Shop will be open for all your gift shopping needs from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Monday through Saturday, and 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Sundays through December 24th.

“It’s a privilege for the Chihuahuas to team up with our local fire department and Operation Santa to provide gifts for kids this time of year,” said Brad Taylor, El Paso Chihuahuas general manager.

Operation Santa, in its 59th season, distributes toys and bicycles to military families, the Boys and Girls Club of El Paso and clinics in Juarez, Mexico. The non-profit, located on Fort Bliss, has donated millions of toys and tens of thousands of bikes to the military and civilian communities.

For more information on the Paws for Presents Toy Drive call (915) 242-2043.

PAWS FOR PRESENTS TOY DRIVE

WHAT: “Paws for Presents”, a toy drive benefiting Operation Santa. Toys must be new and unwrapped for children up to the age of 13. Monetary donations also accepted.

WHEN: Thursday, December 1st through Saturday, December 24, 2016.

WHERE: El Paso Chihuahuas Team Shop on Durango and El Paso Fire Department’s 34 stations

Chihuahuas Launch Volunteer Initiative

The Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack To Participate in Rebuilding Together El Paso’s National Event Day on April 25th

 

Join “The Pack” — CLICK HERE

EL PASO – April 22, 2015 – The El Paso Chihuahuas proudly announce the launch of the Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack, an El Paso-wide volunteer force created to give back to the Sun City and surrounding region.

This Saturday, April 25, “The Pack” will participate in their first event – Rebuilding Together El Paso’s National Event Day – at 6344 St Lo Rd from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 1 p.m. or until the job is done with some special guests arriving around 10:00 a.m. “The Pack” will help with some home improvements such as painting and yard maintenance.

“We are extremely proud to create a community group that can join together and give back to our great city,” said Brad Taylor, Chihuahuas general manager.

Joining together with non-profit organizations and community partners, “The Pack” is made up of Chihuahuas fans, players, coaches and staff with the mission of making a positive impact in our community.

“Rebuilding Together improves the homes and lives of low income elderly and/or disabled homeowners, with the intention to provide them a prolonged decent life in their own home,” said Roger de Moor, President Rebuilding Together. “We do this free of charge with the help of volunteers and the community.”

If you are interested in joining the Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack and helping with future volunteer opportunities, please visit http://bit.ly/All_Paws_In. Spaces are limited and will be filled on a first-come first-serve basis.

Join The Pack and make a difference! #AllPawsIn

Chihuahuas Season Seats, Pawtial Plans, Individual Tickets and Hospitality Areas are on sale now! Call (915)-533-BASE for more information or visit epchihuahuas.com.

Fetch the Fun!

This article originally appeared on the official website of the El Paso. Click here to view the original story.