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The Prospector

Assayer of Student Opinion.

The Prospector

Assayer of Student Opinion.

The Prospector

Katrina Villarreal

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor

Katrina Villarreal is senior multimedia journalism major with a minor in theatre at UTEP. She is going into her second year at The Prospector and is currently the Multimedia Editor. Once she graduates, she plans on becoming a sideline reporter for the NFL or ESPN.

 

All content by Katrina Villarreal
UTEP football head coach Dana Dimel looks down at his play sheet during a game against UNLV Sept. 23.

Paving a path to gridiron greatness in the Dimel era

Katrina Villarreal, Guest Contributor September 27, 2023

Editor’s note: This article was written prior to the start of the 2023 football season.  UTEP football coach Dana Dimel is entering his sixth season as head coach and Dimel is ready for the upcoming season.  Dimel is also excited to see the players...

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A bittersweet goodbye, but an exciting hello

A bittersweet goodbye, but an exciting hello

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor May 12, 2023

I have been putting off writing this because it is hard to say goodbye to a place that gave you so many amazing memories and friends, but part of the journey is the end. Throughout my college career I have been (almost) everywhere, from San Antonio...

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S8 E8: The end of a chapter

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor May 9, 2023

Miners, it is the final episode of The Prospector podcast! On this week's episode sports editor Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela talks to UTEP golfer Andrea Ostos as part of his three-part series of border city athletes. Editor-in-chief Itzel Giron has a special...

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[Video] Senior spotlight: Isabel Brooks

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor May 8, 2023

Rifle team member Isabel Brooks is originally from Houston, Texas and decided to attend UTEP for the rifle team. Brooks is a senior mechanical engineering major and will be graduating this spring and has been named apart of the Top 10 Senior in that department....

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S8 E7: One for the arts

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor April 25, 2023

Time to get artsy Miners, its the Arts & Culture Podcast! On this week's episode staff reporter Erik Acosta asked UTEP students about their thoughts on race-based hair discrimination at schools and workplaces. Photo editor Annabella Mireles gives...

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[Video] The Prospector’s Student-Athlete of the month: Serena Patterson

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor April 19, 2023

From being a part of the indoor volleyball team to the beach volleyball team, Serena Patterson has seen and done it all. Patterson is on her way to earning her master’s degree in leadership studies.   Patterson began her career at UTEP with...

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Round three of the 2023 Formula 1 season concluded Saturday, April 1 at the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit in Australia. Photo courtesy of EJ Mina/ Wikipedia Commons

Australian grand prix ends in a dramatic finish

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor April 14, 2023

Round three of the 2023 Formula 1 season concluded Saturday, April 1 at the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit in Australia. The race included many firsts ranging from safety cars to podium finishes.   It was lights out as the 20 cars went on without a...

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[Video] An a-maze-ing spring fling

Meagan Elizabeth García, Arts & Culture Editor April 14, 2023

Although El Paso and its surrounding cities might not be home to grand attractions like Disneyland or Six Flags, the area is still known to have many great forms of entertainment. La Union Maze, located at 1101 Highway 28, is mostly known in the borderland...

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UTEP Athletics welcomed head coach Keitha Adams Wednesday, April, 12 at the brand-new Gordon Family Courtside Club located in the Don Haskins Center.

Keitha Adams rehired as UTEP women’s basketball head coach

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor April 12, 2023

Editor’s Note: this story is following Coach Baker’s resignation.   Keitha Adams has returned to the Sun City as the new women’s basketball head coach. Adams is known as the winningest head coach in the history of UTEP women’s basketball history.  Adams...

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S8 E6: It’s giving VOGUE

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor April 11, 2023

It's the fashion podcast Miners! On this week's episode staff reporter Avery Escamilla-Wendell talked to Drag performer GagaBoy about the additional legislation may take away health insurance coverage and create lawsuits against gender-transitioning care...

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Baker was named the 2023 Conference USA Co-Coach of the Year.

BREAKING: Women’s basketball head coach Kevin Baker resigns

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor April 5, 2023

UTEP women’s head coach Kevin Baker announced Wednesday, April 5 his resignation after six seasons with the Miners.  “After careful consideration of a generous extension offer from UTEP and weighing my options moving forward, I have decided to...

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Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen’s new contract will have a base salary of $23.5 million for the 2024 season. Photos courtesy of Erik Drost/Flickr

Are subpar NFL quarterbacks overpaid?

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor April 5, 2023

The 2023 Free Agency season officially kicked off March 15 for the National Football League (NFL) and it has been crazy to say the least. With fresh faces in new places and new contracts being signed, some quarterbacks are earning a little more than they...

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S8 E5: Who run the world…GIRLS

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor March 28, 2023

Happy Women's History Month! On this week's episode contributor Catching Marginot sat down with regional scholar of the year award winner Dr. Hilda Ontiveros Arrieta. Audience and engagement editor Marco Hinojosa is back with 'Marco Listens' to give his...

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Lilliana Valdespino, obtained her bachelor of science degree in mathematical sciences in 2019. She is now a graduate student of leadership studies as well as a graduate assistant for Strategic Communications at UTEP.

Women in sports take over the world

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor March 26, 2023

Strategic communications graduate assistant, Lilliana Valdespino, was a student athlete at UTEP before working with UTEP athletics. Valdespino was on both the cross country and track and field teams at UTEP where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree...

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The “X-treme” Football League, the XFL, kicked off its season Saturday, Feb. 18 and will include 40 regular-season games, two semifinals and a title game. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

Are you ready for some more football?

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor March 9, 2023

The National Football League (NFL) season has ended and now Sundays are left vacant. Despite the great ending to an insane NFL season, some fans still want more football. Fortunately for football fans everywhere, there is more football on the horizon...

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S8 E4: What time is it? Spring Break time!

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor March 7, 2023

Happy spring break Miners! On this week's episode editor-in-chief Itzel Giron explains why Miami is not her ideal hot spot for spring break. Audience and engagement editor Marco Hinojosa kicks off his new segment 'Marco Listens' as he gives us a rundown...

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The Women’s National Basketball Association is currently investigating the 2022 WNBA champions, the Las Vegas Aces, for allegations regarding under-the-table payments to players.  Photo courtesy of Lorie Shaull

WNBA to look into Las Vegas Aces cap

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor March 1, 2023

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is currently investigating the 2022 WNBA champions, the Las Vegas Aces, for allegations regarding under-the-table payments to players.   According to an article by The Next, the Aces are accused of...

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Forward Elina Arike shoots the ball during a game against FIU on Feb. 23.

Women’s basketball continues to dominate at home

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor March 1, 2023

Editor’s note: This is a recap of Thursday night’s game against the Florida International Panthers Feb. 23.  UTEP women’s basketball (18-8, 11-6 Conference USA) hosted the Florida International University Panthers (12-14, 7-10 C-USA) at the...

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S8 E3: Thinking about love

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor February 21, 2023

On this week's episode, we are discussing all things love! Staff Reporter Avery Escamilla-Wendell talks to the owner of Xochitl Flowers and Gifts about her busiest time of the year. Photo editor Annabella Mireles gives her ideas on couples' photoshoots....

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'Introducing me’

‘Introducing me’

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor February 17, 2023

Multimedia can be used and seen in everyday life, whether it is in the form of podcasts or videos. Listening to your favorite podcast or watching your favorite video can always lift your mood. Whether you are looking for a motivational podcast or a vlog...

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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes holds up their Super Bowl LVII trophy after their win against the Philadelphia Eagles. Photo courtesy of FOX Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs comeback in Super Bowl

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor February 14, 2023

The Kansas City Chiefs won its third Super Bowl against the Philidelphia Eagles Sunday, Feb. 12 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ. The Chiefs came back from a 10-point deficit at the half but pulled away with an exciting final score of 38-35.  This...

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Sixteen NFL stadiums have grass while fourteen use artificial turf. Photo courtesy of Ed Schipul/Flickr

Battle of the grass

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor February 8, 2023

For the longest time, the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) and the players have asked for the National Football League (NFL) to consider changing the turf in the stadiums to natural grass due to the injuries that occur during games...

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S8 E2: Celebrating Black History Month

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor February 7, 2023

On this weeks episode, we are celebrating Black History Month. Staff Reporter Avery Escamilla-Wendell conducts a phone interview with small business owners of Touch of Brii, Briana Jones and Mike Toussaint to discuss their collaboration to provide Black...

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Pam Oliver is a senior correspondent and NFL reporter for FOX Sports and has worked on over 500 NFL games. Photo courtesy of Elvis Kennedy/ Flickr.

Highlighting Black sports journalists

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor February 1, 2023

Sports is a place known for bringing people together, the rivalries and friendships built are never forgotten. Sports journalists have the power to deliver every aspect of sports that fans love, however when looking at the leader in the sports journalism...

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S8 E1: Welcoming the new semester!

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor January 24, 2023

In this first episode of the spring 2023 podcast season, our new host Katrina Villarreal, introduces our newest segment "Book Talk," where our staff talks about the books they are currently reading or have read. Arts and culture editor Meagan Garcia,...

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially parted ways with pitcher Trevor Bauer after holding the longest active player suspension for domestic violence allegations. Photo courtesy of Erik Drost/Flickr

Los Angeles Dodgers cut ties with Trevor Bauer

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor January 24, 2023

The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced they have officially parted ways with pitcher Trevor Bauer after being reinstated. Bauer is a former Cy Young award recipient who signed a three-year $102 million deal with the Dodgers.  Bauer was suspended in...

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Guard Mario McKinney Jr dribbles the ball along the baseline during the game against FAU.

Miners lose at home to No. 24 FAU

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor January 23, 2023

UTEP men’s basketball team (11-9, 4-5 Conference USA) was defeated by No. 24 Florida Atlantic Owls at the Don Haskins Center Saturday, Jan. 21, with a final score of 67-59.   FAU got off to a fast start in the first half by going on a 10-0 run...

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The NFL Super Wil Card Weekend has ended, the Divisional Rounds have been set and the remaining teams will advance to the Conference Championships. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

Road to Super Bowl LVII: Super Wild Card Weekend

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor January 17, 2023

Super Wild Card Weekend has ended, and the remaining teams are one step closer to holding the Lombardi trophy. The National Football League (NFL) Divisional Rounds are set, as the remaining teams continue to fight to advance to the Conference Championships.  Beginning...

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[Video] Light up your life at the ‘illuminated’ exhibit

Elisha Nuñez, Staff Reporter January 17, 2023

Unique patterns on plexiglass and mylar cut-outs cover the walls, decorated in bright colors from the overhead lights. Proximity-based speakers that make noises when you get close to the artwork and bright neon colors emanating from the paint are just...

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Junior guard Avery Crouse attempts to add on to the lead with a three pointer.

Miners pull a season sweep against LA Tech

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter January 10, 2023

UTEP women’s basketball (10-3, 3-1 Conference USA) welcomed Louisiana Tech (9-6, 2-3 C-USA) to the Don Haskins Center Saturday, Jan. 7. The Miners held down LA Tech, 72-66 for a conference sweep against the Lady Techsters. Louisiana Tech led throughout...

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Pitt senior quarterback Nick Patti calls audible against the UCLA defense at the 2022 Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl Dec. 30, 2022.

Pittsburgh pounces back at the 2022 Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl game

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter December 31, 2022

The Sun Bowl Stadium hosted No. 18 University of California-Los Angeles Bruins (9-4, 6-3 Pacific-12 Conference) and the University of Pittsburgh Panthers (9-4, 5-3 Atlantic Coast Conference) for the 89th annual Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl game Friday, Dec....

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UTEP Men’s basketball defeated Louisiana Tech 60-55 at the Don Haskins Center Dec. 17. Photo courtesy of UTEP Strategic Communications

Miners starts conference play with a win

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter December 19, 2022

UTEP men’s basketball (7-3, 1-0 Conference USA) hosted Louisiana Tech University (6-5, 0-1 C-USA) Saturday, Dec. 17. The Miners defeated Louisiana Tech 60-55. This is UTEP’s first C-USA opening win since the 2015-2016 season.  The Miners scored...

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UTEP loses third straight road game

UTEP loses third straight road game

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter December 11, 2022

UTEP men’s basketball (6-3, 0-0 Conference USA) traveled to Chicago, Ill. to take on Big East affiliate DePaul University (6-4, 0-1 Big East) Saturday, Dec. 10. The Miners lost to DePaul with a final score of 91-70.   UTEP scored the first four...

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UTEP track and field kicks off season

UTEP track and field kicks off season

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter December 6, 2022

The UTEP track and field team kicked off its season Saturday, Dec. 4 at Boston University for the Sharon Colyear-Danville. The Miners had three members of the track and field team compete at the season opener, each one setting personal records.  Graduate...

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James Tupou is a fullback who received his bachelors in kinesiology and is working on his master’s in leadership studies.

Senior Spotlight: James Tupou

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter December 2, 2022

Football player paves their success with the Miners UTEP fullback James Tupou has received his undergraduate degree in kinesiology and is on his way to completing his graduate degree in leadership studies. Once he graduates, Tupou is looking to become...

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Top NFL Fantasy Football picks for the final stretch

Top NFL Fantasy Football picks for the final stretch

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter November 29, 2022

Editor’s note: This is the third of a three-part series on Fantasy Football. As we enter week 13 of Fantasy Football, here are my final suggestions on who to put on your team. Quarterback  Kicking it off for the top fantasy options is the Buffalo...

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UTEP beat San Jose State with a final score of 67-54 but fell to Sacramento State 63-50. Photo Courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

Miners split games at the Holiday Beach Classic

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter November 27, 2022

UTEP women’s basketball (5-1) traveled to San Luis Obispo, California for the Holiday Beach Classic series during the Thanksgiving break. The UTEP Miners met the San Jose State (2-4) Spartans, Nov. 25 and the Sacramento State Hornets (5-1), Nov. 26....

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Sophomore safety Kobe Hylton, with the help of his teammate, tackles the ball carrier during a game against FIU, Nov. 19.

Miners keep bowl game hope alive

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter November 20, 2022

UTEP football (5-6, 3-4 Conference USA) welcomed Florida International University (4-7, 2-5 C-USA) to the Sun Bowl stadium for senior day Saturday, Nov. 19. The Miners beat FIU 40-6 and are now one win away from being bowl eligible.   The Miners received...

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Guard N’Yah Boyd attempts to shoot the ball while being defended.

UTEP surpasses Texas Southern

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter November 17, 2022

UTEP women’s basketball (3-0, 0-0 Conference USA) hosted the Texas Southern University Tigers (0-4, 0-0 Southwestern Athletic Conference) Wednesday Nov. 16 at the Don Haskins Center. The Miners beat Texas Southern with a final score of 80-65.  The...

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Defensive specialist Alyssa Sianez defends an attack by Middle Tennessee on Nov.4

Miners take the gold against Middle Tennessee

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter November 5, 2022

UTEP volleyball (14-11, 8-4 Conference USA) swept Middle Tennessee (15-10, 4-7 C-USA) Friday, Nov. 4 at the Memorial Gym. The Miners are currently third in the C-USA standings. In the first set, the Miners were unstoppable taking a 15-7 lead against...

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UTEP football (4-6, 2-4 Conference USA) lost to Rice University (5-4, 3-2 C-USA), 37-30, Thursday Nov. 3. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

Miners unable to complete win against Rice

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter November 4, 2022

UTEP football (4-6, 2-4 Conference USA) traveled to Houston to meet Rice University (5-4, 3-2 C-USA) Thursday, Nov. 3. The Miners lost to Rice 37-30 in a last-minute comeback by the Rice Owls.  The Miners lost the coin toss but were able to get on...

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UTEP women’s basketball guard Grace Alvarez finds support and stability in her coaches, teammates and God.

Guard leans on teammates

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter November 1, 2022

Entering her second year as a member of the UTEP women’s basketball team, guard Grace Alvarez explains that she has built a close relationship with her teammates.    Alvarez is a sophomore criminal justice major and is originally from Houston....

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UTEP’s 2022-2023 season will start November with the men’s team starting at 7 p.m. Nov. 7 at the University of Texas at Austin and the women’s team starting at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 7 at the Don Haskins Center.

What should fans expect this coming basketball season?

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter November 1, 2022

UTEP men’s and women’s basketball officially kicks off its 2022-2023 season in November against some notable opponents.   Men’s basketball is going to kick off its season on the road against Big 12 affiliate the University of Texas at Austin...

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UTEP football fans cheer on the Miners during the game against Middle Tennessee on Oct. 29.

UTEP loses the crown on homecoming night

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter October 30, 2022

UTEP football (4-5, 2-3 Conference USA) hosted Middle Tennessee State University (4-4, 1-3 C-USA) for homecoming night Saturday, Oct. 29 at the Sun Bowl. The night honored various alumni, UTEP’s legendary coaches and the 2022 homecoming court. The Miners...

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Courtesy of MLB.

MLB World Series: who will come out on top

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter October 28, 2022

The stage is set for the 2022 Major League Baseball World Series as the Houston Astros will be taking on the Philidelphia Phillies in a best-of-seven series beginning Friday, Oct. 28.   Making its fifth World Series appearance since 2017, after a...

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Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s Foundation will help families who are working to overcome food insecurity and childhood mental health issues in Ohio and Louisiana. Photo courtesy of The Joe Burrow Foundation website.

Professional athletes making a difference

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter October 27, 2022

Athletes are at times mainly known for what they do on the field or the court, but it is what they do off the court and field that makes a difference. There are many professional athletes that have their own charitable foundations that have been around...

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This year, the Cincinnati Bengals will face the Cleveland Browns for Monday Night Football Oct. 31. Photo courtesy of RMTip21/Openverse.

Spook-tacular history of NFL Halloween games

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter October 18, 2022

Football is no stranger to Halloween matchups with the earliest game dating back to the beginning of the National Football League. Halloween games are the place where players show up and show out. For this year's Halloween matchup, we have the Cincinnati...

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The UTEP Soccer team won against Middle Tennessee, Oct. 16 after losing against Florida Atlantic Owls Oct. 7 and Rice University Oct. 13. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

Soccer breaks month-long winless streak

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter October 18, 2022

UTEP soccer had a big comeback win at home against Middle Tennessee, Oct. 16, after facing two losses on the road. The Miners (4-9-3, 1-5-2 Conference USA) fell to the Florida Atlantic Owls Oct. 7 and Rice University Oct. 13.   Florida Atlantic University  In...

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Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons.

Changes to consider for the upcoming Fantasy Football month

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter October 11, 2022

Editor’s note: This is the second of a three-part series on Fantasy Football.  We are now entering week six of the National Football League (NFL) season, it has gone by so fast! Here is your monthly update on which players to consider for your fantasy...

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The NFL’s concussion protocol problem

The NFL’s concussion protocol problem

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter October 4, 2022

Editor's Note: NFLPA agrees to changes to the concussion protocol prior to Week 5; urges the NFL to do the same. Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was carted off the field during the Dolphins vs. Cincinatti Bengals game Thursday, Sept. 29. Tagovailoa...

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Colin Kaepernick appears on a Nike ad that reads “Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything” after taking a knee for the pre-game national anthem to show his stance on racial injustice in the U.S in 2016. Photo courtesy of Brechtbug/openverse

Political moments in sports

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter October 4, 2022

Sports are much bigger than the game. Whether athletes use their platform to speak out about current issues or needing to diversify personnel in the team’s office or the league, sports have begun to shed light on important topics the world faces today.  Back...

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Tim Hardaway Sr. played for the Miners from 1985-1989 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame Sept. 10. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

UTEP legend Tim Hardaway inducted into the Hall of Fame

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter September 28, 2022

Miners basketball legend Tim Hardaway Sr., who played for the Miners from 1985-1989, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame Saturday, Sept.10. Hardaway is the fifth UTEP men’s basketball player to be inducted into the Naismith Hall of...

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UTEP junior quarterback Gavin Hardison honors Luke by wearing Luke’s number and last name in the win versus rival New Mexico State University.

The legacy of Luke Laufenberg

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter September 20, 2022

UTEP's football team honors late tight end Luke Laufenberg is a name that is well known in the UTEP community. Luke passed away from complications of Burkitt’s Lymphoma at the young age of 21, but his legacy lives on forever.  Luke was a very caring...

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Photo courtesy of the NCAA/Wikipedia Commons

NCAA changes rules for transfers

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter September 20, 2022

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) announced Wednesday, Aug. 31, that it has made changes to the transfer rules for student-athletes to be able to receive fi nancial aid at their next school, continuing until graduation without interruption. Adjustments...

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Players to keep in mind for NFL Fantasy draft time

Players to keep in mind for NFL Fantasy draft time

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter September 6, 2022

Editor’s note: This is the first of a three-part series on Fantasy Football.  With the 2022 National Football League season fast approaching, fantasy leagues are up and running. Here are the top three players in each position that you should consider...

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UTEP fans and students enjoy some pregame activities before the first game of the season kicks off in the Mike Loya parking lot located on the corner of Schuster and Hawthorn.

The everlasting spirit of tailgating in America

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter September 6, 2022

Tailgating has always been associated with football games, but did not get its start with football. People from all over America gather around during the football season, whether it is for college or professional football, to park in stadium lots with...

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Prior to attending UTEP Mervin attended Hutchinson Community College but once Coach Dimel caught eye of him he knew he wanted to have him on his roster

UTEP football is an extended family for this offensive lineman

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter September 6, 2022

UTEP football’s offensive lineman Robert Mervin, known to his teammates and coaches as “Merv,” has been playing football since he was a child. While playing for UTEP, he has created close friendships with his teammates and has come to see them as...

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Senior kicked Gavin Baechele kicks a 54-yard field goal, a career-high, in the 13-45 loss to the Oklahoma Sooners Sept. 3 in Norman, Oklahoma. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

UTEP football unsuccessful against No. 9 Oklahoma

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter September 4, 2022

The Miners (0-2, 0-1 Conference USA) were defeated by No. 9 University of Oklahoma Sooners (1-0, 0-0 Big 12 Conference) Saturday, Sept. 3 in Norman, Oklahoma with a score of 13-45.   UTEP won the toss but elected to defer in order to receive the...

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Setter Hande Yetis sets up the ball for her teammates during a game against South Dakota.

UTEP volleyball hosts ‘Borderland Invitational’

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter September 4, 2022

UTEP volleyball (2-4, 0-0 Conference USA) finishes 0-3 this weekend at the Borderland Invitational. The Miners fall to the University of New Mexico (3-1, 0-0 Mountain West conference) in a five-set match, Portland State University (1-3, 0-0 Big Sky Conference)...

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Outside hitter Paulina Perez Rosas throws a toy volleyball out towards the crowd during senior night Dec. 2, 2021. The Prospector File Photo

UTEP volleyball prepares to run it back this season

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor August 24, 2022

After a historical 2021 season, UTEP volleyball kicks off the fall 2022 season with an exhibition match against Grand Canyon University at noon Aug. 20. The Miners officially start the season off at the Northwestern Invitational in Evanston, Illinois...

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UTEP alumnus Tobi Amusan will represent Nigeria in the 2021 Olympics competing in the 400 meter hurdles.

Former Miner breaks world record at World Championships

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter July 29, 2022

Former Miner Tobi Amusan broke the world record and set the new world record in the 100-meter hurdles at the World Athletics Championships July 24 in Oregon.   According to KVIA, Amusan set a new African record during the Saturday heat with a time...

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Promotional schedule for UTEP football announced

Promotional schedule for UTEP football announced

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter July 13, 2022

UTEP Athletics has announced the 2022 promotional schedule for home games being held at the Sun Bowl Stadium. The home games will feature different themes each night, along with different sponsors for each of the theme nights.  UTEP will kick off...

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UTEP assistant soccer coach grabs ESPY nomination

UTEP assistant soccer coach grabs ESPY nomination

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter July 8, 2022

UTEP Assistant Soccer Coach Kate Ward has been nominated as a finalist for Best Athlete with a Disability in women’s sports. Also nominated for the Best Athlete with a Disability award are cross-country skier, cyclist and biathlete Oksana Masters, swimmer...

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Courtesy of NCAA.org

Title IX: 50 years of ongoing battle against sex discrimination

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter July 6, 2022

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is an important law that has been around for a long time and is still being amended as time deems necessary. The anniversary of Title IX was celebrated June 30 as 50 years ago in 1972, the first woman of color...

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El Paso Chihuahuas fall to Oklahoma City Dodgers

El Paso Chihuahuas fall to Oklahoma City Dodgers

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter July 1, 2022

The El Paso Chihuahuas (41-34) took on the Oklahoma City Dodgers (47-28) for Pride Night June 30 at Southwest University Park. The Chihuahuas were defeated by the Dodgers with a score of 2-7.   In celebration of Pride month, several employees at...

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It’s ‘Showtyme’ for Miner Caravan

It’s ‘Showtyme’ for Miner Caravan

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter June 26, 2022

UTEP’s Miner Caravan made a quick stop 11 a.m.-2 p.m., June 25 at Showtyme Sports Bar and Grill located at 2106 North Zaragoza Road. Showtyme is owned by current Green Bay Packers running back, and former UTEP Miner, Aaron Jones.   “This...

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Senior UTEP volleyball defensive specialist/libero Ha’ahulakaleikaimana Crisostomo poses for The Prospector April 29.

UTEP volleyball player ‘set’ for comeback

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter May 4, 2022

UTEP volleyball defensive specialist/libero Ha'ahulakaleikaimana Crisostomo, also known as Hula, is from Honolulu, Hawaii. She has been playing volleyball for 10 years now and is looking forwards to coming back next season after missing the 2021 season. Crisostomo...

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Senior accounting major and UTEP tight end Trent Thompson has been playing football since he was eight years old and was UTEP’s primary tight end target in the 2021 season. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

UTEP tight end ready to leave a legacy

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter May 4, 2022

UTEP tight end Trent Thompson is from Houston, Texas and has been playing football since he was 8 years old and has fallen in love with the sport since. Thompson is a senior accounting major set to graduate in the summer of 2022. He plans to get his...

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Photo courtesy of Fantasy Football.

Become immersed in the world of fantasy football

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter April 20, 2022

Fantasy football has been around since the early 1960s and has been a big part of the football season since then. Many football fans bring together some of their closest friends to create leagues and teams for the season. Football fans can play for free...

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Marcus Smith and Faith Smith manage Imperial Legacy. Photo courtesy of Ishmael Barraza

Imperial Legacy leaves its mark on fashion

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter April 20, 2022

Faith and Marcus Smith are a sibling duo conquering the fashion world together. From New York Fashion Week to LA Fashion Week, the Smith siblings created Imperial Legacy together to show fashion has no limit. Imperial Legacy was created in 2012, but...

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Director of “Cenicienta,” assistant professor of theatre Adriana Dominguez, Ph.D, and theatre students Mara Morciglio and Sadie Aiken won awards at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.  Photo courtesy of UTEP Marketing and Communications.

UTEP professor’s play ‘Cenicienta’ wins big at theatre fest

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter April 12, 2022

The play “Cenicienta,” directed by Adriana Dominguez, Ph.D., assistant theatre professor and director of theatre programs at the Department of Theatre & Dance at UTEP, won Director’s Choice/Best Production award at the virtual Kennedy Center...

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Sophomore Veronika Lebisova defeated NMSU sophomore Bella Nguyen in a straight set match, 6-0, 6-3, on April 10. Photo courtesy of Ruben Ramirez.

UTEP tennis falls short against NMSU

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter April 11, 2022

The UTEP tennis team (6-10, 0-0 Conference USA) was defeated by New Mexico State University (6-14, 2-0 Western Athletic Conference) on Sunday, April 10, at the El Paso Tennis Club in the Battle of I-10, with a final score of 4-3. The Miners won the doubles...

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Despite hair not always being considered part of fashion, hair can help express people’s styles and complement their outfits.

UTEP students discuss their go-to hairstyles of 2022

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter April 6, 2022

When people think of fashion, they think of clothes and jewelry, but fashion goes deeper; hair can also play a big role in fashion. Hair can show off people’s personalities and can be styled and dyed in a million different ways, and compliments the...

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LEFT TO RIGHT: In the ’80s, football uniforms included a white line across the sleeve and three lines running down the pants, while their helmets included “UTEP” spelled out.
Men’s Basketball uniforms in 1966 included the words “Texas Western” spelled out on the front and had shorter shorts than today. Women’s basketball uniforms included a wider
sleeve with a blue line above them along with a high V-neck cut with stripes along the neck. Photos courtesy of the UTEP Athletics Department.

The uniforms that made UTEP

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter April 6, 2022

A look at UTEP sporting attire through the years UTEP uniforms have been a staple part of UTEP Athletics and have evolved throughout the years. From time to time, the Miners like to pay homage to uniform designs worn in the past in what they call their...

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Junior guard Destiny Thurman received an honorable mention for the All-Cconference USA team for the 2021-22 season and was recognized by C-USA in postseason awards.  Photo courtesy of Ruben Ramirez.

UTEP women athletes score season milestones

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter March 24, 2022

From current President Heather Wilson to making up more than 50% of the student population, women at UTEP continue to contribute to the success of the institution in academics. It comes as no surprise; they are also paving the way in sports.    From...

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Ivanee Muñoz, owner of A ‘Dior Nail Company, says she enjoys building a relationship with her clients and creating a new look for them.

Changing the world one color at a time

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter March 24, 2022

Ivanee Muñoz owner of  A’Dior Nail company; has won the Best of El Paso award back-to-back for 2020 and 2021. Muñoz takes pride in the work she does on her clients and the services she provides as a friend. Muñoz has been doing nails since she...

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Krishna Jayasankar is a kinesiology major who represents UTEP as a track and field thrower. Jaysankar recently won silver in the women's shot put event at the Conference USA indoor track and field championship in Alabama.

Krishna Jayasankar goes the distance

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter March 22, 2022

Krishna Jayasankar Menon, UTEP track and field thrower, is the first female thrower from India to receive a division one scholarship, marking only the beginning of her athletic career at UTEP.  Jayasankar, a freshman majoring in kinesiology, was chosen...

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The U.S women’s national team reached a $24 million settlement with the U.S Soccer Federation in their six-year equal pay battle Feb. 22.  Photo courtesy of the U.S. Soccer WNT Instagram .

U.S. women’s soccer team settles equal pay lawsuit

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter March 2, 2022

The U.S. women’s national team (USWNT) reached a settlement with the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) to receive equal pay for years to come, ending a six-year fight Feb. 22. The settlement will ensure not only equal pay with its male counterparts but...

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Guard Mahri Petree and the women's basketball team listen to Head Coach Kevin Baker during a time out against Louisiana Tech University at the Don Haskins Center Feb. 17.

Miners lose to LA Tech in late comeback

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter February 18, 2022

UTEP women’s basketball (13-11, 5-9 Conference USA) faced a tough loss to Louisiana Tech University (15-9, 7-6 C-USA) on Thursday, Feb. 17 at the Don Haskins Center, 77-60.   The first half of the game both teams came out fighting, with the Miners...

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Batter Ilena Santos concentrates at the Helen of Troy Softball Field on Sunday Feb. 13, 2022.

UTEP softball falls to ACU at UTEP invitational

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter February 15, 2022

UTEP closed the UTEP invitational with a doubleheader Sunday, Feb. 13 at the Helen of Troy Softball Complex with Creighton University (3-2, 0-0 Big East Conference) vs. Abilene Christian University (1-4, 0-0 Western Athletic Conference) kicking it...

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UTEP Alumna, Lecturer, and escritora fronteriza Alessandra Narvaez Varela at the book reading of Thirty Talks Weird Love on Wednesday Jan. 26 at University Suite.

‘Thirty Talks Weird Love’

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter February 10, 2022

UTEP professor and author Alessandra Narváez Varela released her very first book this past year called “Thirty Talks Weird Love.” Narváez Varela explains she created this novel inverse to open the eyes of many and begin conversations.  Narváez...

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Photo courtesy of Ruben Ramirez.

Miners manage win against Mean Green

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter February 4, 2022

The UTEP women’s basketball (13-7, 5-5 Conference USA) secured a win against the University of North Texas (8-10, 2-6 C-USA) on Thursday, Feb. 3 at the Don Haskins Center with a final score of 75-62.  At around six minutes into the game, the Miners...

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Junior tennis player Eve Daniels from England showcases her excitement during a UTEP tennis match after earning a point. Photo courtesy of Ruben Ramirez

For the love of tennis

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter February 3, 2022

UTEP tennis player Eve Daniels has been playing tennis since she was a kid and decided to bring her talents from England all the way to the Sun City.   Daniels is a junior studying biology with a biomedical concentration; she is not sure what...

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UTEP Hall of Famer Jim Forbes dies at 69

UTEP Hall of Famer Jim Forbes dies at 69

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter February 3, 2022

Jim Forbes, UTEP Hall of Famer and one of three Olympians in the history of UTEP’s men’s basketball, passed away Jan. 21 at the age of 69.   Forbes graduated from Bel Air high school as a High School All-American in 1970. Forbes’ jersey...

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Teal Battle enters the court at the beginning of the game against UTSA on Jan. 23 at the Don Haskins Center.

Miners sweep UTSA in back-to-back wins

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter January 25, 2022

The UTEP women’s basketball team (12-5, 4-3 Conference USA) beat the University of Texas at San Antonio (4-14, 1-6 C-USA) on Sunday Jan. 23 at the Don Haskins Center with a score of 71-59.   The Miners took the lead early in the first...

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Erica Murrill, artist and owner of coffee shop Cafe Arte Mi Admore located at 1498 Main St., San Elizario, not only sells a variety of handcrafted drinks, but also her artwork such as paintings and pottery.

Erica Murrill: a life full of coffee and art

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter January 25, 2022

A cozy and creative atmosphere welcomes customers, as soon as they walk through the doors of Café Arte Mi Admore,  where everyone knows and talks with one another and share their stories. Erica Murrill is the proud owner of the unique and colorful...

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UTEP softball will start their 2022 season off Thursday, Feb. 10 and will introduce several new players and Pitching Coach Lena Springer.

UTEP women’s softball team prepares for season

Katrina Villarreal, Staff Reporter January 20, 2022

UTEP softball kicks off their 2022 season this spring with the UTEP Invitational.  The Miners have a weekend of doubleheaders Feb. 10-11, which wraps up with a game Feb. 13. UTEP is set to begin its season with a home opener against...

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Running back Ronnald Awatt runs down the field against Fresno State on Dec. 18,2021, at University Field

UTEP falls short at the PUBG New Mexico bowl game

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor December 22, 2021

The UTEP Miners were defeated by the Fresno State Bulldogs in the 2021 New Mexico bowl game on Saturday, Dec. 18 at the University of New Mexico stadium with a score of 24-31.  The Miners are making their 15th postseason appearance, and their...

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Defensive specialist Alyssa Sianez bumps the ball during the game against the University of Alabama at Birmingham on Oct. 22, 2021.

UTEP volleyball conclude historic season

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor December 2, 2021

UETP volleyball season is coming to a close after a historic year. Under second-year Head Coach Ben Wallis, the Miners finished the season 21-7 (.769) overall and 9-4 (.667) in conference play.   The Miners dominated all season long, as they accomplished their first...

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Teal Battle along with her teammates scream for joy during the last quarter of the game against St. Mary's University during their home game on Nov. 7 at the Don Haskins Center,.

UTEP fights to reach C-USA Tournament

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor November 30, 2021

UTEP women’s basketball is 4-0 for the first time since the 2017-2018 season under Head Coach Kevin Baker. The Miners have beat each team they have faced throughout the season by double digits.  In its season opener against Incarnate Word, the Miners...

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Elina Arike tries to grab the ball during the women’s home game against North Dakota on Nov. 13.

Miners beat North Dakota to remain unbeaten

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor November 14, 2021

UTEP basketball (2-0, 0-0 C-USA) was victorious against the University of North Dakota (0-2, 0-0) on Saturday, Nov. 13 at the Don Haskins Center. The Miners were able to keep the momentum going that they built up from the very beginning, as they...

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Defensive Back Darius Baptist chest bumps in the air with defensive end Quincy Montgomery on Nov. 6, 2021, at the Sun Bowl

Miners face a heartbreaking loss to No. 16 UTSA

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor November 8, 2021

The UTEP Miners (6-3, 3-2 C-USA) have now lost back-to-back games after a major loss to the undefeated No. 16 University of Texas at San Antonio Roadrunners (9-0, 5-0 C-USA) on Saturday, Nov. 6 at the Sun Bowl Stadium, 23-44. This loss broke the...

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Safety Trejon Hugue kneels before the game against Louisiana Tech Oct. 16.

Miners prepare to take on undefeated Roadrunners

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor November 6, 2021

UTEP football (6-2, 3-1 C-USA) will face off against the University of Texas at San Antonio (8-0, 4-0 C-USA) at the Sun Bowl Stadium on Nov. 6. UTSA could pose a high threat to the Miners, as they are currently undefeated.  UTSA is 8-0 for...

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Setter Kristen Fritsche bumps the ball during the game against the Blazers Oct. 22.

UTEP Miners rally against the Roadrunners

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor November 2, 2021

UTEP volleyball (17-6, 6-4 C-USA) battled The University of Texas at San Antonio Roadrunners (8-14, 5-5 C-USA) over the weekend in San Antonio, Texas in a five-set match on both Friday, Oct. 29 and Saturday, Oct. 30.  On Friday, Oct. 29, the...

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Photo credit: Ace Acosta

UTEP Miners sweep Southern Miss over the weekend

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor October 17, 2021

UTEP volleyball (15-4, 4-2) defeats Southern Miss (10-12, 2-6) over the weekend in Hattiesburg, Mississippi in a four-set match on Friday, Oct. 15 and a five-set match on Saturday, Oct.16.  On Friday, Oct. 15, in a four-set match, the Miners got...

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Photo credit: Christopher Aguilar

UTEP Football one step closer to Bowl eligibility after win against Southern Miss

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor October 10, 2021

UTEP football (5-1, 2-0) secured a win against Southern Miss (1-5, 0-2) on Oct. 9 with a final score of 26-13. This is the first time in 13 years the Miners are now 2-0 in conference play. The Miners offense was able to put up a total of 392 yards, with...

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Freshman setter Ryley Frye serves the ball at Memorial Gym during a match. 
Photo credit: Ace Acosta

UTEP Volleyball meets Louisiana Tech this weekend

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor October 7, 2021

UTEP volleyball will meet Conference USA (C-USA) rival Louisiana Tech (LA Tech) Oct. 8 and Oct. 9 at the Memorial Gymnasium. The Miners have had the best start in program history with a record of 11-4 as they look to continue their winning...

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SJE Photography

UTEP Rugby Club makes their way to Tokyo, Japan

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor October 1, 2021

A trip to Tokyo, Japan is set in Aug. 2022 for the UTEP Rugby Club.  UTEP Rugby Football club is a Division 1 rugby program founded in 1972. The Miners compete in the Lonestar Rugby Conference where they play against rugby programs in the...

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Walter Dawn Jr. catches a punt kick during practice on August 16, 2021

A look into Miners Homecoming game against Old Dominion

Katrina Villarreal September 21, 2021

UTEP football faces off against Old Dominion University (ODU) at the Sun Bowl Stadium on Oct. 2 to close off UTEP’s Homecoming week. After canceling Homecoming last year due to COVID-19 the Miners are planning on making this night one to remember. The...

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Photo by Ruben Ramirez

UTEP Volleyball defeats NMSU in the Battle of I-10

Katrina Villarreal, Contributor September 10, 2021

UTEP Volleyball defeated rival New Mexico State University Aggies (NMSU) at the Memorial Gym Sunday, Sept. 5, in a five-set match to continue their undefeated streak; the Miners are now 6-0.   This is the first time the Miners have defeated...

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