Nov. 2, 2009

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AUSTIN, Texas -- The Longhorns Kids Club was founded in 2001 to grow future Longhorns here and around the country.

It seems to be working.

The Longhorns Kids Club now boasts a membership of more than 1,000, and its reaches all across the nation, into 27 states and onto United States Military Bases overseas.

Five-year-old Alaka'l from Kaneohe, Hawaii is the member who lives farthest from the Forty Acres. And Jennifer from Round Rock has been part of Longhorns Kids Club for eight years, making her the longest-tenured club member.

Started in 2001 by UT Athletics and founding sponsor Time Warner Cable, the Longhorns Kids Club aims to grow Texas Longhorns spirit in fans from the earliest age possible. Several members are named after UT coaches and star quarterbacks.

Women's Swimming and Diving coach Kim Brackin even enrolled her two children, Travis and Elly, into the program. They recently received through the mail their official membership packet, which includes a t-shirt, membership certificate, membership card with lanyard and wristband.

"Travis then wore his shirt for two days in a row," Brackin said. "My kids are already Longhorns fans, but I really want them to feel part of it and understand and appreciate all the traditions. This is their club."

Membership is open to those in eighth grade or younger. Members receive free admission to more than 100 athletic events a year, and receive invitations to members-only events like postgame parties with student-athletes and facility tours.

To learn more about Longhorns Kids Club, or to register, please visit LonghornsKidsClub.com. UT Athletics has just launched online registration for the convenience of members.