BROWNSVILLE, Texas β€” In its inaugural season, the 51ΑΤΖζ Men’s Cross Country team has achieved a remarkable milestone, earning a No. 18 national ranking by the NJCAA, while the women’s team has received bids for national consideration following an outstanding debut season.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Basilio Mendoza, the Scorpions have quickly emerged as a program to watch, combining discipline, teamwork, and determination to make school history. The recognition follows a breakout performance at the NJCAA Region 14 Championship Race, where TSC impressed both fans and competitors with a top showing against some of the toughest programs in the country.

At the regional meet in Brenham, Texas, the Scorpions entered the competition ranked No. 3 in Region 14 and went on to outperform a nationally ranked No. 9 team, a remarkable feat for a first-year program. The men’s team demonstrated unity and endurance throughout the race, while the women’s team showcased growing strength and potential that caught the attention of national ranking committees.

β€œThis team has worked incredibly hard since day one,” said Coach Mendoza. β€œTo see them compete at this level and make an impact in their first season is truly special. They’ve set the foundation for something great here at TSC.”

The Scorpions’ success story isn’t over yet. Both teams are now preparing for the NJCAA National Championships, scheduled for November 8 in Fort Dodge, Iowa, where they’ll have the opportunity to represent 51ΑΤΖζ on the national stage.

β€œThis national ranking shows that dedication and belief can take you far,” Mendoza added. β€œWe’re proud of how far we’ve come, but we’re even more excited for what’s ahead.”

The milestone marks an inspiring start for TSC Athletics, reinforcing the college’s commitment to building competitive programs that reflect the talent and spirit of the Rio Grande Valley. With their national debut on the horizon, the Scorpions continue to prove that they belong among the NJCAA’s best.

For more updates on TSC Cross Country and Scorpion Athletics, follow @TSCScorpionsAthletics on social media.

TSC Cross Country’s Morning Run inΜύPreparationΜύfor OLLU Invitational in Inaugural Season

Brownsville, TX – The sun had just risen over the 51ΑΤΖζ (TSC) campus when the Scorpions cross country team gathered for another spirited morning practice. With team drills, group runs, and even drone shots capturing their effort, the Scorpions trained hard as they prepared for their next big test: the Our Lady of the Lake University Invitational this Saturday in San Antonio.

This fall marks the inaugural season for TSC Cross Country, and the energy is undeniable. Under the guidance of coach Basilio Mendoza, the team is not only building fitness but also laying the foundation for a program that represents the Rio Grande Valley on the NJCAA stage.
“It’s been remarkable. I think it was about time a junior college in the Valley had a cross country program, and I’m glad I got to see it in my lifetime. TSC really stepped up and took the lead.”

For decades, Mendoza coached local high school runners and sent hundreds to junior colleges outside the Valley. Now, with TSC establishing its own program, he sees this as a turning point for student-athletes who want to compete at the next level without leaving home.

“For many years I sent hundreds of kids to junior colleges outside the Valley. Now, having one here at home is incredible. The most special part is that I get to be the program’s first coachβ€”and both I and the students are very happy.”

The OLLU Invitational is an important checkpoint for the Scorpions, who have already gained experience against tough competition earlier this season.

“We raced on this same course three weeks ago. The field was very talented, but we held our own and I was pretty happy with our performance.” Mendoza said. “We’re competing well. We just started a little late with recruiting, but I see next year being very promising.”

After Saturday, the Scorpions will set their sights on the Region XIV Championships on October 18 and the NJCAA National Championships on November 7.
With a committed roster, morning practices filled with grit, and a community cheering them on, TSC Cross Country is making history in its first seasonβ€”showing that the Valley now has a program ready to compete on the national stage.

Seven graduates from the Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) program took part in an emotional pinning ceremony to commemorate their completion of the program on Thursday, August 8, 2024 at the TSC SET-B Auditorium.

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