EDINBURG, Texas (Wednesday, March 1, 2023) – Rio Grande Valley FC announced today the promotion of Hondo Candelaria as the organization’s new President.
In his new role, Candelaria will oversee operations and revenue generation for Golden Grape Entertainment and all its entities; Bert Ogden Arena, H-E-B Park, Rio Grande Valley FC, Golden Grape Concessions, DHR Sports + Wellness Center, RGV Pro Sports.
Candelaria has been part of the Golden Grape Entertainment and Rio Grande Valley FC organizations in different capacities for 10 years, most recently as Golden Grape Entertainment Vice President of Sports + Entertainment in 2021.
“It is an honor to serve this incredible organization, the ability to grow within the organization as well as the trust given to me by ownership is truly humbling,” said Candelaria. “A passion for sports and bringing special events to the Rio Grande Valley region is something I and everyone at Golden Grape Entertainment shares. As the club continues to grow, we aim to provide more to the fans and to the local community as the passion for soccer is deeply rooted in this area.”
Since 2019, Candelaria has overseen ticketing operations for RGV FC and H-E-B Park as the Director of Ticketing as well as fulfilling his role as the club’s Vice President. H-E-B Park has successfully booked and executed elite sporting events, bringing high level entertainment to the Rio Grande Valley region.
Major tournaments such as the 2019 Concacaf Women’s Championship have been hosted in Edinburg, using H-E-B Park’s world class facilities; the facility has hosted various international friendlies, including contests between RGV FC and Liga MX clubs since its opening in 2016. Candelaria has led booking and logistics efforts for all special events and sporting events at the venue, adding to his value for the organization.
Golden Grape Entertainment Owner Alonzo Cantu acknowledged Candelaria for his tenure and the quality and commitment he has brought to the organization.
“Hondo has dedicated many years of service to our entertainment organization and sport entities with class and leadership,” said Cantu. “I am proud to extend this promotion to a deserving individual who gives their all to the organization. He is a great asset to us, and an even greater family man. I congratulate him on his success and am confident that he will lead this organization as an elite venue of choice for years to come.”