Vaqueros Performance Center officially opens

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) has recently inaugurated the Vaqueros Performance Center (VPC), a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to enhancing athletic programs. The VPC is part of an extensive $180 million investment aimed at improving all UTRGV sports programs through 13 capital projects, underscoring the university's commitment to enhancing student-athlete experiences and performance.

Spanning over 45,000 square feet, the VPC not only serves as the home for the football program but also features cutting-edge facilities designed to benefit multiple sports teams. Key features of the center include advanced weight training spaces, academic facilities, and sports medicine resources. The VPC is equipped with two practice fields, one featuring synthetic turf similar to that used at Robert Janet Vackar Stadium, and the other a natural grass surface, with striped markings for both football and soccer.

During the opening event, UTRGV Senior Vice President and Director of Athletics Chasse Conque remarked on the significance of the VPC: The VPC and Vackar Stadium are a one-two punch for Vaqueros Football. These facilities and playing in front of sold-out crowds this season make a clear statement about the Valley's commitment to Division I football. The sentiment reflects a broader community support for athletics and a promising outlook for the future of UTRGV sports.

Among the VPC’s standout features is a 4,973-square-footlocker room designated for the football team, accommodating 120 lockers and a lounge area. Notably, several of these lockers have been personalized by supporters as part of the Football Locker Club, highlighting the strong community engagement surrounding the program. The facility also features the Sharon Clark Michael Mueller Student-Athlete Lounge, offering players a space to unwind between their athletic and academic commitments.

The infrastructure within the VPC supports coaching efforts effectively with dedicated office spaces for the football coaching staff, including offices for the head coach and assistant coaches. Additionally, the center is equipped with a large team room that seats 143 and facilitates film analysis, alongside other meeting rooms tailored for position-specific discussions.

A crucial component of the VPC is the sports medicine area, which extends over 3,837 square feet. This area is instrumental for the well-being of student-athletes, particularly for football and swimming & diving teams. It offers exceptional facilities such as an on-site X-ray machine, hydrotherapy room, and a state-of-the-art zero-gravity treadmill, alongside numerous training tables and taping stations, enhancing recovery and rehabilitation processes.

The weight room occupies 7,542 square feet, while the Val LaMantia & Dr. Guy Bailey Academic Success Center spans 1,581 square feet, catering to both football and various athletic programs. To further bolster student-athletes & #39 health and performance, the center includes a nutrition center, ensuring they receive optimal fueling and dietary support.

Visitors are greeted at the VPC through the Boggus Family Atrium, designed to create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the overall experience of the facility. Head coach Travis Bush expressed high regard for the new building, stating, it’s great for these young men... having one of the top facilities, not only in the conference but in the country, is great. It's going to help us... to keep recruiting top-quality athletes as well.

Overall, the Vaqueros Performance Center stands as a testament to UTRGV's commitment to fostering a high-level athletic environment, characterized by innovation and community support, aimed at elevating the university's sports programs and enriching the experiences of student-athletes.