STC Triumphs at NIRSA Regional Flag Football Tournament, Men's Team Clinches Championship Trophy

In the heart of Corpus Christi, Texas, the stage was set for a showdown of epic proportion as the South Texas College men’s, women’s, and coed flag football teams competed at the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association Regional Flag Football Tournament, with STC’s men’s team bringing home the championship trophy.

The tournament, hosted by Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, brought together students from multiple colleges and universities from the states of Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and Louisiana.

A total of 32 students represented STC to showcase their skills on the field.

“This tournament is more than a competition; it allows South Texas College students the ability to excel both on the field and in the classroom,” said Luis M. Banda, coordinator of Student Activities and Wellness. “These outside-of-the-classroom experiences provide students with invaluable student development opportunities to become well-rounded individuals possessing skills necessary for their future.”

The highlight of the tournament belonged to the STC men’s flag football team. Their journey was more than just a series of matches; it was a testament to resilience, talent and teamwork.

“It was fun. I had a great group of teammates that made everything easier, they made big plays,” said men’s flag football team member and Most Valuable Player of the tournament Pedro Salinas. “The staff from Student Activities were helpful and made this trip enjoyable. It was a moment of pride for the college community, a reminder that hard work and commitment could lead to greatness.”

And although the competition was fierce, STC’s women’s team also had success, advancing to the semifinals, while the coed team successfully pushed their way to the quarterfinals.

“I had a great experience. My teammates and I grew together as a team, and I learned more about my teammates,” said Taylor Rains, a member of the women’s team. “Getting up in the morning and having breakfast before the game had to be my favorite part of our trip. These moments of fun helped foster creativity and collaboration, leading to increased productivity and better teamwork.”

STC men’s and coed flag football team member Donavin Lincoln said, “I appreciate the chance to play with a skilled team, but even more so, with an exceptional group of guys and girls, since I competed in both teams.” 

Banda said that this recent team championship is an inspiration for STC intramural sports teams to continue to aim high.

“With the trophy in hand, they've set a standard for excellence,” he said. “They are motivating future STC athletes to reach new heights.”