LCPS hosts spring sports media day

Las Cruces Public Schools recently held its largest-ever sports media day, bringing over 80 student athletes together on Feb. 11, at the Field of Dreams Baseball Complex for a high energy event, to kick off the spring sports season.  

Athletes from across the district represented powerlifting, softball, baseball, golf, track, and athletic training. They rotated through interviews and photo stations in which they shared their own stories, goals, and pride for not just their team, but also their school.  

The event was organized by the LCPS Athletics Department, and it gave students athletes a chance to experience a media setting in a professional style, while also being recognized and celebrated for their achievements on and off the field.  

Angel Herrera, a track sprinter at Mayfield High School, mentioned how big of a deal the district meets holds. He also spoke about how he trains with his teammate, Xavier Ochoa. 

“I think what I am looking forward to is that district meet,” Herrea said. “It’s fun to compete with Ochoa (Xavier) and see who comes out on top.” 

Ariah Baldonado, a sprinter for Centennial High School’s track team, shared how she is focusing on hitting certain marks in practice. 

“We’re doing some conditioning, trying to get to a certain mark by a certain time,” Baldonado said. “I like it because it’s different than just running for a certain amount of time, and when you are trying to beat your goal, you have more motivation.”  

Throughout the event, athletes wore their uniforms, greeted teammates from other district schools, and answered questions as cameras rolled.  

LCPS TV captured media coverage, including student interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.  It continued to highlight and showcase the students’ voices, increasing school pride through digital media. Michelle Ronga, executive director of athletics at LCPS, made the importance of the event clear.  

“It’s to promote our programs and to promote student engagement,” Ronga said. “We want to capitalize on showing the positive impact of athletics and how these students are student athletes, so that they’re successful in the classroom, as well as on the field or in the gym.” 

According to the LCPS officials, the sports media day is a part of a larger effort to celebrate the students’ success and even provide opportunities for athletes to be seen, heard and backed in their journeys across their respective sports seasons.