The UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros have built a rich legacy in NCAA sports, with both UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros football and UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros baseball showcasing the university’s athletic excellence. Known for teamwork and determination, the Vaqueros continue to represent South Texas with pride, skill, and a deep commitment to success.
College Sports Established
1952
Location
Edinburg, Texas
College Name
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Collegiate History
1988 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2014 - Present / Western Athletic Conference
2010 - 2013 / Great West Conference
1999 - 2009 / Independent
1992 - 1998 / Sun Belt Conference
1988 - 1991 / American South Conference
Nickname
Vaqueros - The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros is one of the most beloved teams in college sports. Their nickname, “Vaqueros,” has been around since the school was founded in 1927 and is a tribute to their region’s rich cowboy heritage.
UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros Origin
In Spanish, “vaquero” means cowboy or horseman, and it is an appropriate name for this team, given its location on the US-Mexico border. The Rio Grande Valley was once home to many ranchers who lived off cattle ranching and horsemanship - activities that required skillful riders known as vaqueros.
The UTRGV Vaqueros have embraced their nickname by incorporating it into all aspects of their program, from uniforms to logos and mascots, which feature a vaquero riding his trusty steed with a lasso at hand, ready for action! The iconic Vaquero logo is proudly displayed throughout campus on banners, flags, signs, t-shirts, etc., representing not only UT but also honoring those brave cowboys who helped make this area what it is today: A place where hard work meets tradition!
The UTRGV community takes great pride in being associated with such an inspiring symbol that celebrates both its past & present culture while looking forward to future successes! Whether you're cheering them on during football season or just showing your support through spirit wear, when you sport your favorite Vaquero gear – know that you're helping keep alive a piece of history & culture unique to South Texas.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
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UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros History
The UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros have a deep and evolving history in college athletics, marked by their strong rivalry with the UT Arlington Mavericks. The institution began as Edinburg Junior College in 1927, laying the groundwork for what would become one of South Texas’s most competitive and respected athletic programs.
The UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros football program traces its early roots back to 1969, when it was part of Pan American College. The team quickly earned regional respect by capturing multiple conference titles and establishing itself as a powerful competitor. After years of growth, the program moved to NCAA Division I-AA in 1996, making two consecutive FCS playoff appearances before progressing toward the Division I-A (now FBS) level as part of Conference USA in 2013.
Beyond the gridiron, UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros baseball has been a consistent point of pride for the university. With a tradition of producing talented players and competing against some of the toughest programs in the nation, the team has earned recognition for both its competitiveness and its sportsmanship. The Vaqueros have regularly finished near the top of their conference standings, reflecting their dedication and commitment to excellence.
Vaqueros Achievements
The Vaqueros basketball program has also contributed to the university’s strong athletic identity. The team has qualified for multiple March Madness tournaments and posted several 20-win seasons while remaining a consistent contender in the Western Athletic Conference.
Formed through the merger of UT-Pan American and UT-Brownsville, the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros name honors the heritage and culture of the Rio Grande Valley. “Vaqueros,” meaning cowboys in Spanish, symbolizes the region’s hardworking spirit and resilience.
Over the years, both UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros football and UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros baseball have added to the university’s proud legacy, achieving significant milestones and producing talented athletes. As the program continues to expand, the Vaqueros remain committed to academic excellence, athletic growth, and community pride—ensuring a bright future for UTRGV Athletics.
