California’s Sky River Casino has entered a multi-year partnership with Sacramento State Athletics, becoming an official partner and title sponsor of key football games, including the 2024 and 2026 Causeway Classic and a 2025 home game.
The agreement, valued at nearly $250,000, runs through June 2027 and aims to foster community engagement, cultural recognition, and academic support for Native American students.
The partnership debuted at the 2024 Causeway Classic on November 23, where Native American Heritage Day was celebrated. The event included special on-field recognition of Wilton Rancheria and Sacramento State’s Native American College, with the Wilton Rancheria tribal design featured on Sacramento State’s football helmets.
“This partnership is a transformative step toward advancing Native-based education and creating inclusive pathways for academic and professional success,” said Sacramento State President Luke Wood.
The Native American College, supported by the Esak’timá Center, focuses on recruiting, retaining, and fostering the academic success of Native American students through workshops, admissions assistance, and community events.
“It is deeply meaningful to observe Native American Heritage Day at the Causeway Classic and to witness Wilton Rancheria being recognized on the field,” said Wilton Rancheria Chairman Jesus Tarango. “Supporting initiatives such as the Sacramento State Native American College is of paramount importance to our community, as it empowers our youth and creates opportunities for future generations.”
Sky River Casino’s involvement extends beyond sponsorship. Highlights include:
- Creation of the “Sky River Casino End Zone” VIP area at Sacramento State home games, featuring branded tents and giveaways.
- In-game activities like “High/Low with Sky River Casino,” offering fans chances to win prizes.
- Broader engagement opportunities for fans during sporting events.
“We are honored to support Sacramento State Athletics and its amazing programs, which are a major point of pride for the entire community,” said Sky River Casino President Michael J. Facenda. “Participating in sports can make a tremendous difference in achieving goals and reaching entirely new heights.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Sky River Casino and Wilton Rancheria into the Sacramento State Athletics family,” said Mark Orr, Sacramento State’s Director of Athletics. “Sky River has been an amazing community partner since its inception, and we look forward to working closely together in the future.”
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2024/11/25/86483-sky-river-casino-partners-with-sacramento-state-athletics-in-multiyear-deal
