Mega Doctor News
EDINBURG, Texas – There’s no denying that soccer is a global passion, one that transcends cultures and connects billions through shared emotion, spirited rivalry and a deep sense of community.
In the Rio Grande Valley, it’s more than sport; it’s a way of life! Soccer brings joy, relieves stress and instills values like discipline, unity and teamwork in players and fans of all ages.
“Soccer has a unique way of bringing people together, building community, inspiring hope and creating moments of connection that go far beyond the field,” says Lance Ames, Chief Executive Officer, South Texas Health System (STHS) Children’s and STHS Edinburg. “Soccer connects our community, on and off the field.”
Founded in 2025, the RGV Red Crowns are a semiprofessional soccer team that plays at the historic Harlingen Field and represents the Valley in The League for Clubs, Since their debut, the club has helped fill a void in the region’s soccer landscape following the dissolution of the RGV Toros, reenergizing the Valley’s passion for the sport.
“Celebrating the unique culture, history and pride of the Valley, the mission of the RGV Red Crowns extends farbeyond competition,” says Jamal Fayyad, Founder, RGV Red Crowns. “By investing in community engagement and developing local talent, we’re creating opportunities for South Texas athletes to reach their full potential and pursue their dreams—while uniting the Valley through the beautiful game of soccer and building pride and passion for the place we call home.”
To help kick off the RGV Red Crowns’ upcoming season, STHS Children’s will host a special event with the team at the hospital on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Following a presentation in the main lobby highlighting the hospital’s partnership with the team, select RGV Red Crowns players will head to the Children’s Outdoor Healing Garden to take part in fun, interactive activities with pediatric patients receiving care at STHS Children’s. The experience is designed to spark excitement, build connection and bring smiles to young patients and their families.
“The excitement is building across the Valley for the RGV Red Crowns’ upcoming season, and we’re truly honored to welcome team members to STHS Children’s for a special visit that we know will be unforgettable for our patients,” said Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “For a child in the hospital, moments like this can be more than just fun; they can be a source of comfort, courage and relief. These activities support both the physical and emotional well-being of our young patients, reminding them that they are seen, they are supported and they are not 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.”
During the event, RGV Red Crowns players will also make bedside visits to brighten the day of children who are unable to participate in the outdoor activities due to medical restrictions.
To make the experience even more special, patients will receive soccerthemed keepsakes, providing lasting reminders of the day and the support surrounding them.
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.
| Who: | South Texas Health System Children’s & RGV Red Crowns |
| What: | RGV Red Crowns Season Kick-Off Community Celebration & Patient Experience |
| When: | Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Special Presentation: 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.Patient Activities: 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Where: | Main Lobby & Children’s Outdoor Healing GardenSouth Texas Health System Children’s1102 W. Trenton Rd.Edinburg, TX 78539 |
