About Us

The UTRGV Spirit Program prides itself in being the leader of V-Nation. As the heartbeat of UTRGV, the Spirit Program enhances Vaquero Spirit and Pride by participating in athletic events throughout the year. Athletes attend various appearances on and off campus and in the community as ambassadors for the university. The Spirit Program inspires crowd participation, focuses on student-athlete development, and maintains academic excellence. They promote UTRGV spirit and traditions and celebrate current students, alumni, and future generations. 

Members of the UTRGV Spirit Program practice two to three days a week, in addition to assigned appearances/games. Spirit Members attend athletic events throughout the year and make multiple appearances on and off campus. Spirit Members attend the UCA/UDA College Camp in San Marcos, TX in the summer and are also provided the opportunity to showcase their talents at College Nationals in Orlando, FL in January. Selected Spirit Members will travel to the SLC Basketball Tournament hosted in Lake Charles, LA in Mid-March to support UTRGV's Men and Women's Basketball Teams. Spirit Members are expected to attend practices, assigned events, games, and appearances throughout the year to maintain active status and be eligible to participate in traveling events.

• Access scholarship opportunities

• Build lifelong friendships

• Build a support system away from home

• Create and enhance university traditions

• Develop a sense of family

• Develop leadership, communication, and life skills

• Enhance individual mental and physical health

• Experience travel opportunities

• Gain a sense of community

• Gain networking opportunities at appearances

• Improve time management and responsibility

• Participate in community service events

• Preserve expected graduation timelines

• Receive all uniforms and practice gear

• Receive priority registration and advisement

• Serve as an ambassador for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

• Travel to special athletic and university events

• Travel to the SLC Basketball Tournament in Lake Charles, Louisiana

• Attend scheduled practices, assigned events, games, and appearances

• Complete Learning Center Hours (determined by GPA)

• Maintain a Grade Point Average of 2.25 or above

• Maintain Full-Time Student Status

• Provide Physical Clearance from a Physician

• Other requirements are listed in the Spirit Program Contract