College football in North Texas gets underway Saturday, and one team from Fort Worth steps into the international spotlight.
The Texas Wesleyan Rams will host Arkansas State Querétaro out of Mexico in the Global Clasico game Saturday night at Farrington Field.
Even though this is an international matchup, this game counts.
"Normally, these things or exhibitions or scrimmages or whatever," said Rams head coach Joe Prud'homme. "But since they have an American accreditation and we do too, it will count."
Arkansas State Querétaro plays in the Organización Nacional Estudiantil de Fútbol Americano, Mexico's equivalent of NCAA football, and it uses a system of promotion and relegation similar to that of international soccer.
The game celebrates North Texas' Hispanic heritage, and it's also a testament to the growing popularity of American football south of the border.
"There is such a high level of interest down there, and it is really a growing sport," said Coach Prud'homme. "The influence of the Dallas Cowboys cannot be understated in that region and in that area."
The game will punctuate a full evening of activities and entertainment.
"We've got a mariachi metal band," said Prud'homme. "Tequila Rock Revolution is going to play at 5:00, and (country music artist) Deanna Wheeler is going to play at 6:00."
Prud'homme said based on advance ticket sales, he's expecting the biggest crowd in Texas Wesleyan football program history.
"If you like music, entertainment, and seeing Farrington loaded up, it'll be a great event," Prud'homme said.
Tickets are available at Farrington Field the day of the game or in advance online here. (LINK: https://gofan.co/app/school/TX68059)
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