Green-and-gold balloons, pom-poms and free Southwest Airlines round-trip tickets welcomed Sacramento State football fans at Sacramento International Airport (SMF) ahead of a historic weekend for the university.
Among the travelers heading to the game was 1967 alumnus Wayne Stokes, who said the program’s move to a new level of competition made the trip especially meaningful.
“It’s a new era, so it’s exciting,” said Stokes as he waited to board his flight. “I’m looking forward to it.”
Sacramento State begins FBS era against Eastern Michigan
On Saturday, the Sacramento State football team will play its first game as a member of a Football Bowl Subdivision conference when it faces Eastern Michigan. The FBS represents the highest level of competition in college football.
“It’s an incredible feeling. Sac State has worked so hard to get into the MAC Football Bowl Subdivision. It’s the highest level of collegiate football,” said Michelle Willard, Sac State’s Chief of External Relations & Economic Development Officer. “But, more importantly, we’re so excited for our students and out fans.”
Southwest Airlines provided 35 fans with round-trip tickets to attend Sacramento State’s inaugural FBS game.
“This is a milestone moment for Sacramento State, and Southwest Airlines is honored to play a small part in it,” said Lillian Santos-Stables, Southwest Airlines Regional Community Outreach Manager, Corporate Responsibility.
The football team was scheduled to board a private charter closer to noon, allowing the players to sleep later than the fans who took an early-morning flight connecting through Denver.
The Hornets will play Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturday.
