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

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.

Sod Poodles Open 2021 Concessions Fundraising Program

 

The Amarillo Sod Poodles, in conjunction with Diamond Creations, the team’s food and beverage provider, have opened their Concessions Fundraising Program to the community for the 2021 season. The initiative offers a unique fundraising opportunity for non-profit groups through concession stand sales at HODGETOWN.

Non-profit or 501(c)(3) groups, sporting clubs, cheer groups, girl and boy scout troops, church and school organizations, and more are welcome to join and meet fundraising goals in an easy way through concession sales during the 2021 Sod Poodles baseball season.

To fundraise, groups simply provide individuals to work in a concession stand, and, in turn, earn money for their organization. Groups are not limited on how many games they work throughout the 60 home-game season. All dates will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

If a non-profit group would like detailed information or like to get involved for the upcoming 2021 season, contact Mike Lindal at [email protected] or by phone at 316-796-3110. Groups can also fill out an online request form HERE.

Amarillo will host their 2021 home opener at HODGETOWN on Tuesday, May 18 against the Midland RockHounds, Double-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics, to begin their initial six-game homestand.

For the most up-to-date news on the Sod Poodles along with detailed information on the 2021 season, promotions, and tickets, follow the team on social media @sodpoodles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For questions and more information, call 806-803-7762 or email [email protected].

Sod Poodles Announce 2021 Job Fairs

 

The Sod Poodles will be holding a pair of job fairs for part-time seasonal positions in a variety of areas throughout the 2021 baseball season. The job fairs are scheduled for Saturday, March 6 and Saturday, March 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and will be held at HODGETOWN in the Fairly Group Club level. The event will be organized to ensure guests have the space they need to remain socially distant and face coverings are required at all times.

All positions are game-day/event-only positions, requiring night and weekend commitments throughout the 2021 baseball season (May through September). Applicants must be at least 16 years of age but some positions will require candidates to be 18 years of age or older. HODGETOWN hiring managers are looking for hardworking candidates with great guest service skills.

Candidates are urged to dress to impress. Applicants who cannot attend can also apply at the team’s website at www.SodPoodles.com.

All candidates attending the job fairs must enter through the front rotunda entrance at 8th and Buchanan and follow signage upstairs to the registration table in the club level.

The job fair will be for candidates interested in applying and interviewing for positions in the following areas:

  • Concessions: Concession Stand Staff, Food Prep/Stocking, In-Stand Food/Beverage Sales Vendors
  • Catering: Hospitality Servers
  • Grounds Crew: On-Field maintenance workers
  • Stadium Staff: Ushers, Kids Zone Attendants, Morning Cleaning Crew, Crowd Control, Parking Attendants
  • Retail: Sales Associates
  • Box Office Representatives: Window Attendants
  • Promotions/Street Team: Sod Squad/Promotions Team Members
  • Production: Scoreboard/Videoboard Operators, Camera/Replay Operators/Directors, Audio Engineers
  • Batboys: Includes pre and post-game equipment work and in-game dugout duties

_*Additional positions/areas may open up and positions listed above are subject to change _

Amarillo will host their 2021 home opener at HODGETOWN on Tuesday, May 18 against the Midland RockHounds, Double-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics, to begin their initial six-game homestand.

For the most up-to-date news on the Sod Poodles along with detailed information on the 2021 season, promotions, and tickets, follow the team on social media @sodpoodles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For questions and more information, call 806-803-7762 or email [email protected].

Prasek’s Family Smokehouse Lends a Helping Hand to Community

Prasek’s Family Smokehouse is accustomed to delving out heavy portions of their award-winning sausage and other items to their many patrons.

But even they may have outdone themselves in terms of quantity this year.

Prasek’s, a proud partner of the Sugar Land Skeeters, served approximately 10,000 soldiers, veterans and families at Fort Hood this past October in support of Cowboys 4 Heroes. They served 2,500 pounds of sausage and were prepared to serve up to as many as 20,000 people.

“Prasek’s Family Smokehouse is proud to partner with Cowboys 4 Heroes and combine our beliefs and efforts to assist our military families. Providing a family meal will give them a little break from the kitchen,” said Prasek’s Generals Manager of Retail Operations, Duane Korenek. “It is our civic duty to support our veterans. Food is our business so we will do it with sausage, burgers and hot dogs.”

This is not the first time that Prasek’s has donated a large quantity of food to a worthwhile cause.

This past March, once again in support of Cowboys 4 Heroes, they donated 2,000 meals as part of the Houston Livestock and Rodeo Show Armed Forces Day. In April, there were 2,880 meals donated to Gallery Furniture to help feed the less fortunate amidst the pandemic.

In 2019, Prasek’s donated a combined 14,000 meals to the Houston Food Bank, Victoria Food Bank and Christ’s Kitchen – Victoria.

“Prasek’s is built on strong family values and there are families in need; that’s why we are doing this,” said Vice President and GM of production and sales for Prasek’s Family Smokehouse Mike Prasek, Jr. in 2019. “We support as many causes as we can including the needy, military veterans, law enforcement and countless non-profits. It’s part of Prasek’s culture. It’s what we do. It’s who we are. Texas has a reputation of being friendly. In giving, we stay true to our deep-rooted Texas traditions.”

In a year where many have needed an extra hand in finding where their next meal might be, the Skeeters are proud to partner with an organization like Prasek’s that displays such dedication and thoughtfulness toward its community.

Round Rock Express to Host Winter Baseball Camp

 

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are excited to announce details for the team’s annual Winter Baseball Camp at Dell Diamond. The three-day camp is scheduled to run 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. from Monday, December 28 through Wednesday, December 30. Registration is $250, open to participants ages 6-14, and available now via ExpressCamps.com.

“Hosting a baseball camp over the holiday season has become one of our favorite winter traditions here at Dell Diamond and we are thrilled that we can continue that tradition in 2020,” Express Camps Director Chase Almendarez said. “As always, the safety of our campers remains the top priority and we have proven through our previous summer and Skills & Drills camps that we can continue to provide high-level baseball instruction from our experienced group of coaches in a safe, responsible and socially-distanced manner.”

Express Camps offer big league quality instruction on the fundamentals of the game. Express Camps range by age and offer opportunities for all skill levels and provide high-level instruction from knowledgeable, experienced and passionate coaches. Every Express Camp aims to develop the complete ballplayer by emphasizing physical, mental and leadership skill sets.

The safety of participants and staff at Express Camps is the top priority. As mandated by the State of Texas, the Express will be implementing a series of expanded protocols and procedures. Each camp will be limited in numbers to follow health and safety protocols from local and state officials with campers split into small groups based on age that will remain consistent for the duration of each camp. Each group will have two dedicated coaches that will stay with that group for the duration of camp. Campers will not participate in games or scrimmages with other groups.

Additionally, parents and guardians will not be allowed to attend camps, except to drop off and pick up campers at designated curbside areas. Assigned coaches and staff will check campers in and out of camp at designated curbside areas. Water stations, which are regularly monitored and sanitized, will be available to campers only. Campers are required to bring their own bats, gloves and refillable water bottles. For more on the enhanced safety procedures being implemented, please visit ExpressCamps.com.

To view the full lineup of a variety of special events coming to Dell Diamond in 2020, visit RRExpress.com/Events. For more information about the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

Spend Halloween with the Hooks on October 31

 

CORPUS CHRISTI – Join us at Whataburger Field on Saturday, October 31 for the 7th annual Halloween with the Hooks, presented by H-E-B.

Trick or Treat from the socially-distant confines of your vehicle in the ballpark’s South Parking Lot from 1 to 4 p.m. Treats will be delivered from booth-to-booth directly to your car window. The drive-thru experience is free to the public. Guests are encouraged to donate to the Coastal Bend Food Bank.

“We want to thank H-E-B for their amazing support in keeping Halloween with the Hooks on the calendar,” Hooks Director of Business Development Maggie Freeborn said. “It’s been a challenging year in so many ways, and they have stepped up to the plate to provide a safe and alternative way for families to have fun and help out their neighbors.”

Last year’s Halloween with the Hooks garnered 1,002 pounds of donated food.

“As a result of the COVID-19 economic impact in our communities, the Coastal Bend Food Bank has seen a significant increase in demand for food,” CBFB Executive Director Bea Hanson said. “As the holidays approach, we will need extra help to make sure that families can celebrate, especially when times are tough. Every $1 donated helps to secure four meals for families in need.”

The festivities also feature a virtual Halloween costume contest. Participants are asked to submit their best photos by Sunday, October 25 via Facebook or Twitter (@cchooks). Entries can also be made by emailing Dan Reiner at [email protected].

Categories include Best Hooks Costume, Best Sports-Themed Costume, Scariest Costume, Cutest Costume and Best Pet Costume. The grand-prize winner will be announced on Halloween and will receive a $50 gift card to Hook, Line & Sinker.

H-E-B, Academy, CITGO, Clemtex, Corpus Christi Police Department, Dave & Busters, DGS Construction, Driscoll Children’s Hospital, First Command Financial Planning, Kiewit, Kleberg Bank, Muniz Electric, Pepsi, RBFCU, State Farm, Texas Bridge Credit Union, VALERO and Whataburger will join the Hooks in giving away treats.

To inquire about hosting a booth, contact Freeborn via email or by phone at 361-561-4676.

Soddies Saturday Spooktacular To Bring Halloween To Downtown Amarillo

 

BUY TICKETS NOW

A Soddies’ “Saturday Spooktacular” outdoor family movie night presented by Sonic is scheduled for Saturday, October 17 at HODGETOWN and is set to bring a socially-distanced and safe Halloween to downtown Amarillo. The event will feature the showing of Disney’s “Hocus Pocus” along with pre-movie, socially-distanced trick-or-treating around the concourse, adult, child and family costume contests, and more. Tickets for the event are limited and are on-sale now online at www.SodPoodles.com or HERE, over the phone, or in-person at the HODGETOWN box office.

Social distancing protocols will be in effect and enforced by HODGETOWN staff during the event and masks are required upon entry, exit and while moving about the stadium but can be removed while seated. Entrance to the event will be located at the left-field (north) gates, which open at 5 p.m., and the movie is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. Additionally, only clear, plastic totes/bags and empty candy buckets/bags are allowed through the gates.

From five to 6:30 p.m., event attendees and families may participate in outdoor, socially-distanced trick-or-treating around the stadium concourse. Sponsors and partners from around the community will be safely distanced at individual tables for spaced groups to visit and grab pre-packaged goodie/candy bags. Additionally, there will be a costume contest held for best individual adult/child costume and best group/family costume. All costumes worn at the event must be family-friendly.

A variety of movie seating will be available for purchase, including on-field, reserved square spaces, hospitality suites, and individual bowl seats.

On-field, marked square spaces are available to reserve in four or eight-person capacity (limited quantity). Four-person squares (10’x10’) are $32 and eight-person (10’x20’) squares are $64. Blankets and pillows are acceptable to bring on to the field, but folding chairs are prohibited. Sod Poodles Blankets (54″x84″) can also be added to a reservation for $36 – various colors available and limited quantity available.

Private luxury suites, coterie (concourse) suites and dugout (field-level) suites for 10 people are also available for purchase as group hospitality options.

Group hospitality options offered for 10 people are a Tailgate Meal suite, which includes hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans, potato salad, cookies, and canned sodas, for $320, or a Movie-Night Snack suite, which includes a choice of 10 candy-item mix and match – Cotton Candy, M&M’s Peanuts, M&M’s, Sour Patch Kids, and Skittles, 10 Drinks – Sierra Mist, Mt Dew, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, and Water, Bottomless Popcorn, and Bottomless Peanuts for $200.

Individual bowl seats are $8 per seat. A Family Movie Meal Pack is available for purchase which includes two candy choices, two buckets of popcorn, and four drinks for $25. Standard concessions will also be open for individual-item ordering.

The Sod Poodles team store will be open from 5 p.m. (gates open) until all guests have left the park.

Fans can purchase tickets now online at www.SodPoodles.com or HERE, by phone at 806-803-9547, or in-person at the HODGETOWN box office. Box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Day of the event purchasing will be available but ticket availability is not guaranteed.

For more information on HODGETOWN’s COVID-19 Readiness Plan and protocols, click HERE.

EVENT INFORMATION & GUIDELINES SUMMARY:

· All Guests MUST wear a mask or face covering at all times while inside the stadium unless seated at assigned seat/pod.

· Social distancing protocols will be in effect and enforced by HODGETOWN staff.

· Only ONE entrance to the event will be located at the left-field (north) gates (across from City Hall building)

· Gates open at 5 p.m.

· Movie scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.

· Outdoor, socially-distanced trick-or-treating will be open for event attendees from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

· ONLY clear, plastic totes/bags and EMPTY candy buckets/bags are allowed through the gates.

· Blankets and pillows are acceptable to bring on to the field, but folding chairs are prohibited.

· All costumes worn at the event MUST BE family-friendly.

· On-field, marked square spaces are available to reserve in four or eight-person capacity (limited quantity).

· Private luxury, upstairs suites, coterie (concourse) suites and dugout (field-level) suites for 10 people are available for purchase

· Guests can purchase tickets now online at www.SodPoodles.com, by phone at 806-803-9547, or in-person at the HODGETOWN box office.

BUY TICKETS NOW

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

 

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.

Round Rock Express Announce Skills & Drills Baseball Camp Series

 

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are excited to announce a series of half-day Skills & Drills Baseball Camps coming to Dell Diamond this fall. Each camp will run approximately three hours and focus on the fundamentals of the game. The inaugural Skills & Drills Baseball Camp is set for Sunday, September 20 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Registration for each camp is $125, includes a Round Rock Express gift, and is available now via ExpressCamps.com. Additional Skills & Drills Baseball Camp dates will be announced in the near future.

“We are thrilled to add a series of Skills & Drills Baseball Camps to our robust lineup of Round Rock Express Camps. With school back in session throughout much of Central Texas, either virtually or in-person, we are honored to be able to provide the next generation of athletes with an outlet to experience Express Camps on select weekends this fall,” Express Camps Director Chase Almendarez said. “Although these camps are only half-day, as compared to our longer summer camps, each participant will receive the same high-level baseball instruction from our experienced and knowledgeable coaches.”

Express Camps offer big league quality instruction on the fundamentals of the game. Express Camps range by age and offer opportunities for all skill levels and provide high-level instruction from knowledgeable, experienced and passionate coaches. Every Express Camp aims to develop the complete ballplayer by emphasizing physical, mental and leadership skill sets.

The safety of participants and staff at Express Camps is the top priority. As mandated by the State of Texas, the Express will be implementing a series of expanded protocols and procedures. Each camp will be limited in numbers to follow health and safety protocols from local and state officials with campers split into small groups based on age that will remain consistent for the duration of each camp. Each group will have two dedicated coaches that will stay with that group for the duration of camp. Campers will not participate in games or scrimmages with other groups.

Additionally, parents and guardians will not be allowed to attend camps, except to drop off and pick up campers at designated curbside areas. Assigned coaches and staff will check campers in and out of camp at designated curbside areas. Water stations, which are regularly monitored and sanitized, will be available to campers only. Campers are required to bring their own bats, gloves and refillable water bottles. For more on the enhanced safety procedures being implemented, please visit ExpressCamps.com.

To view the full lineup of a variety of special events coming to Dell Diamond in 2020, visit RRExpress.com/Events. For more information about the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

Chihuahuas help local food bank achieve its mission 

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.

Amarillo Symphony To Perform Outdoor Concert at HODGETOWN

 

The Amarillo Symphony and Amarillo Sod Poodles are excited to bring great music to the community in a fun and safe way with “Hollywood at HODGETOWN” on Saturday, September 19. The open-air, socially-distanced concert at HODGETOWN, home of the Sod Poodles, is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. with gates opening at 6 p.m.

The Amarillo Symphony, conducted by Jacomo Bairos, will perform a variety of patriotic and cinematic works, including “Stars and Stripes Forever_” and themes from _Harry Potter_, _The Magnificent Seven_, and _Star Wars_, among others. The concert will end with a fireworks finale set to Tchaikovsky’s _1812 Overture.

“Performing on the field at HODGETOWN will bring a new experience to audience and musicians alike,” said Andrew Hay, Executive Director of The Amarillo Symphony. “I’m excited to see Maestro Bairos and the orchestra play in the ballpark, and we are honored to be able to offer this experience to the community at this time.”

“We are thrilled to partner with the Amarillo Symphony on this one-of-a-kind event,” said Tony Ensor, Sod Poodles President and General Manager. “We look forward to bringing this unique Hollywood concert to life in our ballpark setting for the entire community to enjoy and create memories this summer together in a safe and healthy outdoor environment.”

Advanced ticket pricing ranges from $10 to $18 depending on seat location. Guests can purchase tickets starting Thursday, September 3. Online tickets will be available at www.SodPoodles.com starting at 9 a.m. Guests can purchase by phone at 806-803-9547 or in-person at the HODGETOWN box office starting at 10 a.m. Box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Day of the event purchasing will be available, but a $2 increase will be in effect and ticket availability is not guaranteed.

Hospitality options for groups are available as well including Dugout Suites, Concourse Suites, Luxury Suites, and the Pepsi Party Deck. For more information on hospitality areas and tickets, please call 806-803-7762 or email [email protected].

A pre-concert band, “The RagTown Chiefs,” will delight and entertain the crowd just after gates open to shortly before the symphony performance begins so fans are encouraged to arrive early.

This symphony performance is generously sponsored by Street Toyota, Amarillo National Bank, Underwood Law Firm PC, NCW Risk Management, Paul and Jo Tyler Engler and media partner NewsChannel10. The pre-concert band and finale fireworks are brought to you by FirstBank Southwest.

For more information on HODGETOWN’s COVID-19 Readiness Plan and protocols, click HERE.

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

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.

McCombs Ford West’s High School Baseball Seniors Celebration Rosters Announced 

 

San Antonio, TX – The San Antonio Missions, along with the San Antonio Area Baseball Coaches Association, are excited to announce today the rosters for the High School Baseball Seniors Celebration on Thursday, July 2 at Wolff Stadium.

The doubleheader will begin at 4 PM with a matchup of players from San Antonio area Sub-6A and private schools. The nightcap at 7 PM will feature players from San Antonio area 6A schools. Following the doubleheader, fans will be treated to a Wolff Stadium fireworks spectacular.

The Sub-6A/private school contest will pit Team Liberty against Team Freedom. Devine High School Head Coach George Villa will manage Team Liberty and will be joined on staff by head coaches Bob Herb of Medina Valley High School and Amaro Villarreal of Hondo High School. Team Freedom will be led by McCollum High School’s Geoffrey Curtin. Assisting Curtin will be Matt Gomez of Southwest High School and Adrian Juarez of Highlands High School.

The 6A tilt features Team Stars against Team Stripes. Head Coach Tim Goins (Taft) heads Team Stars along with a staff of Eric Jupe (Brandeis), Ty White (Marshall) and Weston Heiligman (O’Connor). MacArthur High School head coach Tom Alfieri will guide Team Stripes. Assisting Alfieri will be David Smith (Steele), Eric Vasquez (East Central) and Dennis Schlueter (Churchill).

Team Liberty Roster

Team Freedom Roster

Team Stripes Roster

Team Stars Roster

Team Liberty will the home team in the opener and Team Stars will be the home team in the nightcap.

Tickets for the McCombs Ford West Seniors Celebration are $12 for adults and $8 for any student or school personnel. Fans can purchase tickets at www.samissions.com. For additional questions or more information, please call 210-675-7275.

Social distancing protocols will be in effect during all games at The Wolff. For more information on Wolff Stadium’s COVID-19 Readiness Plan and protocols, click https://bit.ly/2BRnd40.

Dell Diamond to Host Donation Drive Benefiting The Salvation Army

 

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express and Brown Distributing, Central Texas’ local Anheuser-Busch distributor, are teaming up to host a donation drive at Dell Diamond to benefit The Salvation Army. The drive is set for Wednesday, June 3 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the Suite Parking Lot on the South side of Dell Diamond.

The Salvation Army’s biggest needs are household items, including pots, pans and kitchen appliances, as well as good standing furniture and lightly worn clothes. For more information on items that The Salvation Army can and cannot accept, please click here.

“Like most places in our community, we have taken a financial hit when it comes to serving vulnerable people in our community,” Austin Area Commander of The Salvation Army Major Lewis Reckline said. “Our family stores help people provide rehabilitation services to those who are struggling with addiction in our community. We accept clothes, furniture, cars, boats, household items and much more. Shop local and donate local to help our struggling neighbors.”

The Express and Brown Distributing recently joined forces to host a blood donation drive at Dell Diamond. With both organizations sharing resources to host the event, over 70 units of blood were donated to benefit We Are Blood. The Express and Brown Distributing are aiming to make a similarly impactful donation to The Salvation Army on June 3.

“We are honored to partner with the Round Rock Express on community events that give back to organizations like We Are Blood and The Salvation Army,” Brown Distributing Vice President Laurie Brown said. “Brown Distributing has been serving the Austin area since 1962 and supporting our community, especially in times of need, has been a company priority since our inception.”

Both The Salvation Army and Brown Distributing will have trucks on hand at Dell Diamond to accept donations. Those wishing to bring donations are asked to please wear a mask or protective face covering while at the stadium.

“We take pride in the fact that Dell Diamond continues to be a community pillar in Central Texas, and it is our honor to use our facility to host a donation drive to benefit the great work that The Salvation Army is doing,” Round Rock Express General Manager Tim Jackson said. “By sharing resources with our great partners at Brown Distributing, we have proven just what an impact we all can make if we work together to assist the most vulnerable members of our community.”

For more information about the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

 

Cat Osterman to Coach Round Rock Express Softball Camp

 

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are excited to announce that two-time Olympian Cat Osterman will be joining the Express Camps team as a coach for the upcoming softball camp at Dell Diamond from August 3-6, 2020. The four-day camp runs from 9:00 a.m. each morning until 12:00 p.m. and is available to kids ages 6-14. Registration is now open by clicking here.

“Summer camps play such an instrumental role in growing the game of softball and I am honored to be able to share my experiences with kids right here in Central Texas,” Osterman said. “I am so thankful for the Round Rock Express and their commitment to teaching baseball and softball to our next generation through summer camps.”

The first three days of the softball camp will feature drills that touch on hitting, throwing and fielding to develop campers both mentally and physically. The final day will focus on applying those skills to game situations. There will also be a private awards ceremony for the campers prior to the conclusion of the camp.

“We are so excited to welcome Cat to our group of knowledgeable, experienced and passionate coaches this summer,” Express Camps Director Chase Almendarez said. “We pride ourselves on providing big league caliber instruction in our baseball and softball camps and having someone with Cat’s unparalleled resume join our team further enhances that mission.”

In accordance with Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s plan to open Texas, the Express are hosting nine different half-day and full-day baseball and softball camps at Dell Diamond, beginning on June 1. Express Camps range by age and offer opportunities for all skill levels. A full list of Express Camps available can be found at ExpressCamps.com.

The safety of participants and staff at Express Camps is the top priority. As mandated by the State of Texas, the Express will be implementing a series of expanded protocols and procedures. Each camp will be limited to 40 total campers, split into five groups of eight, based on age, that will remain consistent for the duration of camp. Each group will have two dedicated coaches that will stay with that group for the duration of camp. Campers will not participate in games or scrimmages with other groups.

Additionally, parents and guardians will not be allowed to attend camps, except to drop off and pick up campers at designated curbside areas. Assigned coaches and staff will check campers in and out of camp at designated curbside areas. Water stations, which are regularly monitored and sanitized, will be available to campers only. Campers are required to bring their own bats, gloves and refillable water bottles. For more on the enhanced safety procedures being implemented, please visit ExpressCamps.com.

Osterman was a four-time All-American and three-time National Player of the Year at the University of Texas before embarking on a professional career that included six National Pro Fastpitch All-Star selections and four NPF Championships with the Rockford Thunder and USSSA Pride. She also starred on the USA Women’s Softball Team that won a gold medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens and a silver medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Osterman was recently named to Team USA for the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo.

A member of the Texas Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2012, Osterman coached at Texas State University for six seasons from 2015 through 2020. Prior to that, she was an assistant coach at St. Edward’s University for three seasons. Her coaching career has also included time with the University of Texas and DePaul University in Chicago.

For more information about the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!