Rhinos to Host Mexican National Team for Exhibition Series

After winning back-to-back championships in April, the Rhinos will continue to make history by facing off against the Mexican National Team this Fall!

Over the past month, Rhino General Manager Corey Heon has been in contact with Joaquin De La Garma, the President of the Mexican Ice Hockey Federation. Recently, Heon met with De La Garma and his son Diego, the coach of the U20 Men’s Mexican National Team. “It was an extremely positive meeting and we have come to terms to play two exhibition games here in El Paso,” Heon explained. “This looks to be the start of a very successful partnership with the Mexican National program on various levels. We are extremely excited for this great opportunity.”

After they kick off their season with the annual Black and Orange game on September 21, the Rhinos will welcome the U20 Mexican National Team for a two-game series on September 28 and 29 at the El Paso County Coliseum Events Center.

This series will be the first of its kind, as no other junior hockey team in the United States has had the privilege of playing a team comprised of Mexico’s top players. “Any time you can play a national team representing their country, it is a huge deal. They compete at the World Junior Championships every year and it is exciting for our organization that they chose us to play,” Rhino Head Coach Cory Herman said.   

The historic series will be held in conjunction with the Rhino Alumni Weekend, where former Rhinos from the past thirteen seasons will return to Rhino Country. Fans will be able to meet the returning Rhino alumni as well as current Rhinos and Mexican National Team players in a meet and greet just before Saturday’s game. Also on Saturday, the Rhinos will be clad in commemorative El Paso themed jerseys that will be auctioned off immediately following the game. Alumni will help unveil the Rhinos’ newest third jersey, a “blackout” sweater, which will be worn during all Sunday home games.

Throughout the two-game series, fans can take advantage of sales on merchandise, purchase game-worn Mexican National Team jerseys, and enjoy promotions like Jerseys Off Our Backs, where those in attendance have a chance to win El Paso themed and “Blackout” game-worn jerseys on Saturday and Sunday. Game-goers can also skate with the Rhinos for free following each game.

Tickets will be available for purchase through Ticketmaster or at the County Coliseum Box Office on September 1. The puck drops at 7 pm on Saturday and 4:30 on Sunday.