Sporting events are part of every college experience, and games at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) are no different. The roar of the crowd on a winning drive, the synchronized cheer after a 3-point shot made, or tense air in Memorial Gym on match point, these experiences can be enjoyed by all students at UTEP.
Despite this, stands at UTEP can look barren at times in comparison with other universities. Although the 2025 spring semester welcomed a record-breaking number of enrolled students – with a total enrollment of 23,861 – why are students not coming to games?
Full-time UTEP students receive free admission to all UTEP Athletics home ticketed events including football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, volleyball, soccer and softball.
With these benefits gifted by the university, students can take advantage of the bonuses handed out to them.
Along with the already granted free tickets from the school, UTEP chemistry student Adrian Richarte, believes that sporting events on campus can be a great way to find community as well.
“It’s a new way to make friends and just get out of your comfort zone,” Richarte said. “It’s a new experience, and it’s already part of our tuition, so we should take advantage of that.”
When the stands are filled with a sea of orange and blue, each and every fan can gain a sense of belonging and pride. People at the events are often in support of the UTEP Miners, and the community attending helps the “Miner Nation” come together.
While many students and fans find community and connections at home games, others such as kinesiology major Alexandro Rivera make memories that will last a lifetime.
“I think it’s important for people to go and show the team spirit, the school spirit, and because it’s a good experience to have that you’re not going to have after graduation,” Rivera said. “I’ve been to a couple of UTEP football games, some volleyball games, and the most memorable one was a football game where UTEP should’ve won… (But) everyone was having fun, and I remember my friend was being thrown around in the bleachers. It’s just no matter the outcome, the environment is always super cool.”
Whether it be incoming students or returning ones, students can make the effort of attending the many home games at UTEP. To be part of an incredible community or to make memories that will stay with you forever, the experience cannot be compared.
Joseph Montero is a staff reporter for The Prospector and may be reached at [email protected].
