Soccer is more than just a game; it’s a universal language that unites people across borders, cultures and generations. Fueled by passion, pride and unforgettable moments, the sport creates lasting connections and a sense of belonging shared by billions around the world.
In the Rio Grande Valley, soccer is part of who we are. From neighborhood fields to packed stands, the game brings communities together, sparks joy and offers a powerful outlet for energy and emotion.
More importantly, it nurtures essential values like discipline, teamwork and resilience, inspiring both players and fans to grow on and off the field.
“Soccer has a powerful way of uniting people, lifting spirits, strengthening community and creating moments of hope when they’re needed most,” says Lance Ames, Chief Executive Officer, South Texas Health System (STHS) Children’s and STHS Edinburg. “It’s more than a game here; it’s a heartbeat that connects our community, bringing us together both on and off the field.”
Founded in 2025, the RGV Red Crowns are a semi-professional soccer team playing at historic Harlingen Field, proudly representing the Rio Grande Valley in The League for Clubs. Since their debut, the team has revitalized the region’s soccer scene, reigniting local passion for the sport and helping fill the void left by the dissolution of the RGV Toros.
“The RGV Red Crowns are about so much more than soccer; they’re a celebration of the Valley’s rich culture, deep roots and unwavering pride,” says Jamal Fayyad, Founder/President, RGV Red Crowns. “Through meaningful community engagement and a commitment to developing local talent, we’re opening doors for South Texas athletes to chase their dreams. At the same time, we’re bringing people together through the beauty of the game, building unity, pride and a shared passion for the place we’re proud to call home.”
As part of the kickoff to the RGV Red Crowns’ upcoming season, STHS Children’s hosted a special event with the team at the hospital on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, helping introduce the Red Crowns to the Upper Valley community through connection, smiles and shared moments.
Following a presentation in the main lobby unveiling the STHS Children’s logo on the RGV Red Crowns’ jersey as part of the hospital’s partnership with the team, seven players visited young patients in the third-floor playroom, leading fun, interactive activities with them and their families.
Joined by Vicente Alvarez, Randy Galvan, Rene Galvan Jr., Izhaid Gamez, Alberto Yanet, Julian Sandoval, Martin Tiscornia and team mascot Rico, the Red Crowns’ visit filled the space with excitement, fostered meaningful connections and brought smiles to young patients, their families and the players themselves.
“Spending time with these kids was incredibly moving for all of us,” said Alvarez, a former McAllen Bulldogs soccer all-star who plays forward for the team. “You walk in thinking you’re here to lift their spirits, but you quickly realize they’re lifting yours, too. Moments like this remind us why community matters and just how powerful it is to show up for one another on and off the field.”
In addition to the playroom activities, RGV Red Crowns players made bedside visits to brighten the day of children who were unable to participate due to medical restrictions.
To make the experience even more memorable, patients received soccer-themed keepsakes, providing lasting reminders of the day and the support surrounding them.
“Excitement is building across the Valley for the RGV Red Crowns’ upcoming season, and we were honored to welcome members of the team to STHS Children’s for a visit we know was deeply meaningful for our patients,” said Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “For a child in the hospital, moments like this are more than just fun; they offer comfort, courage and a welcome sense of relief. Experiences like this support both the physical and emotional well-being of our young patients, reminding them they are seen, supported and never alone. Through our Child Life Services Program, we’re committed to compassionate care that goes beyond medical treatment, and we’re deeply grateful to partners like the RGV Red Crowns for helping our patients feel encouraged, comforted and a little less overwhelmed during their hospital stay.”
The RGV Red Crowns’ 2026 season officially kicks off on Saturday, May 16, when the team faces the Central Texas Coyotes at Harlingen Field. For the full schedule and ticket information, visit the RGV Red Crowns website.
For more on the Child Life Services at STHS Children’s, visit STHSChildrens.com.
About South Texas Health System
South Texas Health System is a multi-facility healthcare system serving patients throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The system includes four acute care facility campuses with specialties in pediatrics, heart and vascular services, maternity and women’s health and trauma services. Inpatient and outpatient treatment for behavioral health needs and addictive disorders is also provided through the system's South Texas Health System Behavioral facility. South Texas Health System is affiliated with the South Texas Clinical Partners ACO, Prominence Health Plan and Cornerstone Regional Hospital. The system operates an advanced Level I Trauma Center at South Texas Health System McAllen, the first dedicated children’s facility and pediatric ER at South Texas Health System Children’s, the region’s only freestanding heart hospital and specialized cardiac ER at South Texas Health System Heart and seven freestanding emergency rooms located in and around Weslaco, Mission, Edinburg, McAllen, Pharr and Alamo. For more information about the system and its comprehensive services, please visit www.southtexashealthsystem.com.
About RGV Red Crowns
RGV Red Crowns Soccer Club is a semi-pro soccer team based in the Rio Grande Valley, dedicated to providing opportunities for local athletes to chase their dreams. Rooted in the rich culture and history of Harlingen, Texas, we are more than just a team, we are a movement, uniting fans through the passion of the game. Whether you’re a player striving for the next level or a supporter looking for an exciting matchday experience, RGV Red Crowns is here to represent pride, passion, and the beautiful game of soccer in South Texas. Vamos 956!
