El Paso, Texas (KFOX14) — For the El Paso Rhinos, the connection between players and fans extends beyond the action on the ice.

With 2026 marking the organization’s 20th anniversary, Daytime visited as players prepared for practice to learn about the team’s growth, game-night experience and involvement in the community.

Two decades of growth

Corey, identified in the interview as the Rhinos’ president and general manager, said he has been doing the work for the better part of 15 years.

He recalled early days that included a circus tent with a diesel heater and walking on sand and dirt. Over time, he said, the organization added improvements that helped shape the facility and experience described in the segment.

Corey said the atmosphere makes the arena an intimidating place for visiting teams to play — but also a place players enjoy.

“Fan experience here is absolutely incredible,” he said.More than the game

Corey described an effort to keep the experience affordable and entertaining, pointing to T-shirt giveaways, prize giveaways, music and singalongs on the arena’s jumbo screen.

The conversation also highlighted the fast, physical action on the ice and the relationship between the organization and the people who support it.

For Corey, community involvement is part of that relationship. He discussed players participating in charity events and interacting with fans beyond game night.

“But without the fans, we don’t have the players or the organization,” he said.Giving back beyond the ice

Austin, introduced as a Rhinos player, said he was in his first year with the team and had found a welcoming environment among teammates, fans and the community.

He described community service, skates after games and learn-to-play activities as ways players give back.

“We do our part by giving back to the community,” Austin said.

Those interactions, he explained, help build the atmosphere around the team and strengthen the connection between players and supporters.

Watch the Daytime segment for a closer look at the Rhinos’ history, fan experience and community involvement.

El Paso Rhinos (Courtesy: KFOX14)