Late community member and life-long Lindale sports fan Jesse Rodriquez hosted tailgate parties nearly every football season from the early 2000s to the 2017 season before his passing this February. This Friday, the Rodriquez family will carry on his legacy by hosting a tailgate event before the first home football game of the season. The tailgate will begin at 5:00pm and last until kickoff at 7:30pm. There is no charge but donations will be accepted.
“We appreciate any and all donations,” niece of Rodriquez, Nicole Hutchins, said. “We have done donations in the previous years, but [my uncle] paid most of it out of pocket. He just wanted the community to have a positive experience and enjoy a nice meal before the games.”
The family intends to keep the tradition going through the rest of the season and for many years to come. Stay tuned for a follow-up story on the tailgate event including messages from family members, athletes and community members.
Editor’s Note: On behalf of my family, I want to thank LISD, the athletic department and the community for all of the support and encouragement following my uncle’s passing. We ask that you continue honoring him by attending our tailgates this season. I look forward to seeing you there. Go Eagles!!
Here is a message from his daughter, Katie Rodriquez:
“LINDALE EAGLE FANS!?
On behalf of the Rodriquez family, we would like to inform you all of the upcoming first tailgate of the 2018 football season. Though our leader of the flock has gained his eagle…I mean, angel wings, we plan to fulfill his legacy by keeping his traditions alive. We have high hopes of maintaining his standards through our Tailgate Crew, but we can’t be successful without the help of our community! So clear your schedules, spread the word, and plan ahead, because we hope to see you ALL at Lindale’s kickoff tailgate of the 2018 season!! The first tailgate will be Friday, September 7th as the Eagles prepare to face the Forney Jackrabbits. It will begin at 5pm and last until food runs out, or 7:30pm, at Eagles Stadium. Hope to see you there!!???”
