From Little League Dreams to Inclusive Celebrations: My Journey with Puro Tepache

Growing up in Del Rio, Texas, I was always the girl who could throw a fastball as hard as the boys, if not harder. My passion for baseball started in our backyard, where my dad would pitch to me for hours, and my mom would cheer from the sidelines. Little did I know that those countless afternoons would lead me to the Babe Ruth World Series, where I played shortstop with an all hispanic team. It was a dream come true, a testament to hard work, and a story of resilience—one that I cherish to this day.

Our journey to the World Series was filled with excitement, camaraderie, and a deep sense of pride. We were more than a team; we were a family, representing our hometown and our Mexican heritage with every swing and every pitch. But as we advanced to the national stage, we encountered a rude awakening.

When we arrived in Arkansas for one of the tournament's critical games, the atmosphere was different. It wasn't just the pressure of the competition that weighed on us; it was the stares, the whispers, and the palpable sense that we were outsiders. Our team, with our brown skin and Spanish cheers, stood out in a sea of unfamiliar faces. The feeling of not belonging was a stark contrast to the warmth and acceptance we felt in Del Rio.

Despite the hostility, we played our hearts out and won the game. But the victory felt bittersweet. The experience left a lasting mark on me. It was the first time I truly felt what it meant to be judged for my background, to be treated as though I didn't belong because of my ethnicity. It was a tough lesson for a young girl, but it also ignited a fire in me—a determination to celebrate my identity and embrace it proudly.

Years later, as I transitioned from baseball to other passions, I found a new love: Puro Tepache. For those unfamiliar, tepache is a traditional Mexican beverage made from fermented pineapple. It's a drink that embodies the spirit of our culture—sweet, refreshing, and full of life. When I decided to join the Puro Tepache team, I knew I wanted to bring the same passion and pride I had for baseball into this new venture.

Puro Tepache isn't just a drink; it's a celebration of Mexican heritage and an invitation for everyone to experience our vibrant culture. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where people from all backgrounds can come together, enjoy a delicious beverage, and appreciate the rich traditions it represents. Just as my team and I found strength in our unity on the baseball field, Puro Tepache aims to foster a sense of community and belonging.

We believe that cultural appreciation should be about sharing and celebrating the beauty of diversity. Whether you're Mexican, Mexican-American, or from any other background, Puro Tepache welcomes you with open arms. Our beverage is a symbol of our identity, a reminder of the resilience and joy that comes from embracing who we are.

Looking back on my journey from the Little League World Series to where I am now, I realize that those challenges I faced were not just obstacles; they were opportunities to grow. They taught me the importance of pride in one's heritage and the power of inclusivity. At Puro Tepache, we carry that message forward, inviting everyone to join us in celebrating the rich tapestry of our shared human experience.

So, here's to Puro Tepache—a drink that refreshes the body and warms the soul. Let's raise our glasses to a future where everyone feels they belong, no matter where they come from. Cheers!

Also! We invite you to come out and support our local baseball team, Los Tigres! Join us at the ballpark for an exciting game and experience the energy and talent of our community. For more information on upcoming games, special events, and how to get your hands on some refreshing Puro Tepache, be sure to visit our homepage. Let's make every game a celebration of our vibrant culture and community spirit!

By Diandra Garcia

Head of Quality - Puro Tepache