El Paso Chihuahuas and UTEP Football Announce 2020 Promotions
I am not sure if this is purely coincidence but 30 minutes after the El Paso Chihuahuas released their promotional calendar for the 2020 baseball season UTEP released their promotions and game times for the 2020 football season.
Let's start with the Chihuahuas since their annual promo reveal is one of the most exciting days of the year for El Pasoans who love premium free stuff. A kids Chico pillow, bucket hat, women's clutch, and three replica jerseys will be given away to fans this season. In addition, the team dropped a sweet looking Star Wars uniform that will be auctioned during their May 2nd home game against Tacoma.
Most giveaways are for the first 1,500 guests through the gates with paid admission and in attendance. In addition, the team announced 13 fireworks nights, four Kids Education Day games, and the return of theme nights. You can access all of the team's promotions by clicking the link below.
Single game and Opening Day tickets go on sale to the general public on Saturday, February 22nd beginning at 10 a.m. both online at epchihuahuas.com or at the Southwest University Park box offices. The Durango & Santa Fe Box Offices will be open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on February 22 and will be closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Patrons may purchase individual game tickets online at any time at epchihuahuas.com.
Less than an hour later, UTEP released its promotions and game times for the 2020 football season. The big takeaway is the return of 7 p.m. kickoffs for the first three home games. The final three games of the season in late October and November will kickoff at 2 p.m. Despite the strange timing of the press release, I am happy that UTEP pushed out all of their season promos this early, so fans will have plenty of opportunities to get their tickets. My general manager Brad Dubow will be especially happy, since he has been campaigning for years that UTEP football return to the 7 p.m. kickoffs.
Here is a breakdown of each game and promotion courtesy of UTEP Athletics.
• Sept. 5 vs. Texas Tech (7 p.m.) – Spirit Night and Orange Out
UTEP kicks off its 103rd football season by hosting Big 12 power Texas Tech for the first time in five years! The Miners and the Red Raiders have staged some epic battles in the Sun Bowl of late, with Texas Tech prevailing 38-35 in overtime in 2006 and 30-26 in 2014. Be sure to wear Orange to the game and show your Miner pride! The UTEP Spirit Squad will host hundreds of youth cheerleaders and dancers who will perform at halftime.
• Sept. 26 vs. NM State (7 p.m.) – Hispanic Heritage and Hall of Fame Game
The Battle of I-10 returns to the Sun City as the Miners look to wrestle control of the silver spade and brass spittoon from their long-time rivals, the Aggies! This game will feature a celebration of the Latino culture and a special halftime tribute to this year’s UTEP Athletics Hall of Fame induction class. Fans will also enjoy a postgame fireworks show sponsored by Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo and Speaking Rock Entertainment Center
• Oct. 17 vs. Southern Miss (7 p.m.) – Homecoming
UTEP takes on the Golden Eagles in the 2020 Conference USA home opener. It marks the Miners’ 89th Homecoming game as students and alumni alike converge on the campus to cheer on the Orange and Blue.
• Oct. 31 vs. North Texas (2 p.m.) – Halloween, Band Day and Youth Football Day
The Miners and the Mean Green will square off in the afternoon so fans can get home in time to take part in their Halloween festivities. But first, enjoy tricks and treats both pregame and in the Sun Bowl as well as a spectacular halftime performance by local marching bands. Youth football teams will have the opportunity to play on the Sun Bowl turf earlier in the day and then will cheer on the Miners against North Texas
• Nov. 7 vs. FIU (2 p.m.) – Military Appreciation Day/Civic and Service Day
The matchup with the Panthers will feature UTEP’s annual celebration of the nation’s Armed Forces, including the U.S. Army post at Fort Bliss. Plus, the Miners will say thank you to all the first responders and law enforcement agencies that work tirelessly to keep El Paso and the Borderland safe.
• Nov. 21 vs. UAB (2 p.m.) – Extra Yard for Teachers/Commitment to Campus
This game will serve as a salute to area educators as well as UTEP faculty and staff for their incredible work in supporting the academic mission of the region. The 2020 home finale pits the Miners versus the defending Conference USA West Division champion Blazers. Fans also won’t want to miss the pregame celebration of the outgoing football senior class, recognizing their careers at UTEP.