Oct. 8, 2004

For the seventh consecutive year, The University of Texas-Pan American athletic department kicked off its annual Adopt-A-School Program on Friday (Oct. 8) at a luncheon held at the University Ballroom on the UTPA Campus.

UTPA along with the Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District have teamed to continue the Adopt-A-School Program, which provides meaningful interaction between children of the Rio Grande Valley as well as student-athletes from UTPA.

"There was a lot of high energy this afternoon as the coaches and elementary representative were excited to brainstorm goals and plan activities for the upcoming year. I feel we will have another successful year with strong interaction between the elementary schools of Edinburg I.S.D. and UTPA athletic department," said April Cupp, Athletic Marketing Coordinator.

The Adopt-A-School Program is designed to give grade school children the opportunity to interact with UTPA student-athletes and discuss issues relevant in their lives. Topics for the Adopt-A-School Program range from the importance of staying in school, setting goals and saying no to drugs. The discussion topics are recommended by participating schools to help ensure that the needs of the children are being met.

The students at each participating elementary school will have the opportunity to visit the UTPA campus, attend practices of their host team as well as attend Bronc and Lady Bronc home games and events. In addition, the Adopt-A-School Program allows UTPA student-athletes to serve as role models for the children of the Rio Grande Valley. This remains a top priority of the UTPA athletic department as it continues its mission of educating the student-athletes in the importance of community involvement.

The schools participating in the Adopt-A-School program include Lincoln Elementary School (Volleyball), Zavala Elementary School (Men's and Women's Tennis), Jefferson Elementary School (Cross Country/Track and Field), Travis Elementary School (Women's Golf), Escandon Elementary School (Baseball), San Carlos Elementary School (Women's Basketball), Canterbury Elementary School (Men's Golf) and Trevino Elementary School (Men's Basketball).

UTPA Sports Information