Partner Announcements

2022 Hometown Hero Recipient Deputy Hector Rodriguez Recaps Experience 

Greenville, SC (April, 13th, 2023)- The Greenville Triumph and Joe Roberson & Son Roofing have partnered together for a second season to spotlight heroes of the Upstate. Hometown Heroes honors deserving first responders, such as firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, and frontline healthcare workers, and the work they have done in and for their communities. 

To preface the 2023 Hometown Hero announcements, we will be talking with previous recipients about their experience in being named a hero. Our first question and answer session is with Deputy Hector Rodriguez of the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, who was recognized on August 13, 2022 during the home matchup against the Richmond Kickers last season. 

Q: Why did you choose to go into your line of work?

A: A lot of people think of cops as guys who just ride around pulling over cars and handing out tickets left and right, it’s not all about that. The reason I joined law enforcement was to help and assist victims of crimes find the peace and justice they deserve. I feel accomplished when I take a criminal to jail for stealing property from a hard-working family’s home, a scammer who stole thousands of dollars from an elderly citizen, or an intoxicated driver who potentially could’ve killed someone on the road, and the list goes on. I do this not only because it’s my job, but because I care. 

Q: What does it mean to you to have been chosen/named as a Hometown Hero?

A: When I learned I was chosen to be recognized as Hometown Hero, I honestly got extremely excited! What made me really happy was that there’s a group of guys and girls at Greenville Triumph who genuinely support first responders and wanted to recognize us. It means a lot to me because there’s a sense of peace and relief knowing that there’s a community out there that supports you and appreciates the work you do. It most definitely was an honor to be selected as a Hometown Hero at the country’s best soccer team, Greenville Triumph! 

Q: What was the highlight of your experience being named/ being recognized as a Hometown Hero?

A: The whole thing! The experience was awesome. But obviously, the highlight of the evening was going on the field and being recognized in front of everyone and being gifted a plaque. It was truly an amazing experience that I won’t forget. Also, seeing Triumph win the game topped it all off. An unforgettable night.

Q: Lastly, we want to know how you spend your time out of work! So, if you won an all-expense paid trip, where would you go?

A: I’ve always been a tropical-warm weather type of person so a trip or cruise to the Bahamas or Mexico would be awesome.

Do you have an Upstate hero you would like to recognize this season? Nominations for Hometown Hero are now open on the Greenville Triumph Website through the form here. 

The Hometown Heroes Series will return for a second season

Greenville, SC (April 7, 2023) – The Greenville Triumph and Joe Roberson & Son Roofing will continue their partnership to present the Hometown Heroes Series for a second season. The family-owned and operated business has served the Upstate since 1965 by providing quality workmanship, reasonable pricing, and complete customer satisfaction. 

John Roberson has ties to the Greenville community as Parker High School alumnus, now known as Legacy Early College and the former home of Triumph Stadium. “I thought it would be great to support the Triumph and at the same time support the community I grew up in and still have our office in,” said Richard.

When asked why Joe Roberson & Son Roofing chose to endorse the Hometown Hero award, John acknowledged the labor and sacrifice first responders make daily, “We see the fire, police and EMS personnel in our community constantly fighting to make and keep our community safe.” He continued on to say, “A hero is someone who displays bravery, courage and upstanding qualities while serving others.” 

The Hometown Heroes Series serves to recognize first responders, firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, and healthcare workers of the Upstate for their hard work and dedication to the community. There will be five Hometown Heroes recognized throughout the season. They will be honored at one of the Triumph matches on May 13th, June 10th, July 1st, August 23rd, September 9th. If selected, the nominee will receive up to four PNC field club tickets that include free parking and all-inclusive food and beverage.