By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the NEWS
Registration is now open for the San Benito Greyhounds’ 2025 Texas Youth Football Association (TYFA) fall season. The program is entering its 13th year and is currently signing up players, cheerleaders, and volunteer coaches across multiple age groups.
Sign-ups are being accepted online or in person at the Old Berta Cabaza Middle School (former San Benito High School) Building, located at 600 N. Austin St., from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The $150 tackle football package includes two custom jerseys, integrated game pants, a loaner helmet, shoulder pads, and registration fees.
Age groups include: Flag for children ages 4 to 5, Tykes (6–7), Rookies (8–9), and Juniors (10–11). Seniors, ages 12 to 13, compete only in the spring. Cheerleading is open to children ages 4 to 11. Girls’ 5-on-5 flag divisions are available for 8U, 10U, 12U, and 14U.
Volunteer coaches, according to board member Luis Mireles, play a critical role in the program’s success. “Coaches often leave a lasting impression, shaping values and good habits. Many kids don’t have access to personal trainers or resources to support their growth. That’s where volunteers step in—helping build a foundation of self-worth, discipline, and confidence,” he said. “They give young athletes the push they need in the right direction that extends far beyond the playing field, helping underfunded communities and making sports more accessible for families with lower income.”
Mireles has been with the Greyhounds for two years, coaching every age group while also serving on the board. “I have been involved with this program for going on two years, helping children increase their confidence and build up their character, team, and leadership skills through sports and structured activity,” he said. “I plan to be here as long as God allows me to be here on this earth to give back to the community by molding the younger generations, as they are our future.”
When asked what makes the Greyhounds special, Mireles shared a written message titled “What It Means to Be a Greyhound.” “To be a San Benito Greyhound football player is more than just putting on a jersey. It’s more than running plays, scoring touchdowns, or winning games. It’s about the heart. It’s about pride. It’s about representing something bigger than yourself,” he wrote.
He went on: “Being a Greyhound means showing up early, staying late, and giving 110%—even when no one’s watching. It means lifting each other, holding each other accountable, and never backing down from a challenge. It means playing with discipline, with respect, and with relentless determination.”
“We don’t just play for ourselves. We play for the name on our chest, for the roar of the crowd on a Friday night, and for the little kids in the stands who dream of being Greyhounds one day,” he commented.
The Greyhounds carry a legacy. “When we step onto that field, we carry the legacy of those who came before us—the players who bled purple and gold, who gave everything they had for this team, this school, and this town. We carry the hopes of our families, our classmates, and our community. And we do it with pride,” he explained.
The program was founded after a local rivalry sparked a deeper mission. “After witnessing an incredible Battle of the Arroyo game, our head coach, Gabriel—fueled by his passion for football—was inspired to bring competitive (youth) football to San Benito,” Mireles said. “Fourteen years later, we’re proud to be still serving our community and building that vision.”
Getting involved, he added, is straightforward. “You can get involved by simply sending a text or call to one of our volunteers.”
To parents still weighing the decision, Mireles offered one final thought. “Paving the way so others can benefit from the TYFA organization. Give a man a fish, feed him for a day, but you teach him how to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.”
For more information, contact Gabriel at (956) 238-7293 or visit the online registration form.
Recent Comments