ELK GROVE, CA – Sky River Casino and Sacramento State Athletics have announced the casino has signed as an official partner of Sacramento State Athletics. The dynamic and multi-faceted partnership also included title sponsorship of the Causeway Classic football game (Sacramento State vs. UC Davis) on Saturday, November 23, 2024.
The match-up was highlighted by prominent on-field and stadium signage and in-person involvement by Wilton Rancheria, including a special presentation recognizing Native American Heritage Day. The recognition featured the Wilton Rancheria tribal design prominently on the team’s football helmets, honoring both the tribe’s history and culture while commemorating the seniors’ last home game.
The new partnership between Sky River Casino and Sacramento State Athletics supports the university’s vision of achieving excellence on the field and in the classroom and inspiring pride while also engaging the community at large.
“Sky River Casino and Wilton Rancheria are key partners with Sacramento State Athletics, helping the university’s commitment to serve Native communities through strategic partnerships and initiatives,” said Luke Wood, Sacramento State President. “This is more than a new center or program – it’s a college designed for those interested in learning more about Native life, history and culture, led by a powerful leader and respected educator in our Native community. This underscores Sacramento State’s dedication to fostering inclusive educational
environments and strengthening ties with Native communities. This partnership is a transformative step toward advancing Native-based education and creating inclusive pathways for academic and professional success.”
During the Causeway Classic, there was a recognition highlighting Sacramento State’s Native American College. The Native American College supports Native American students through recruitment, retention, and academic success initiatives, in collaboration with the Esak’timá Center, offering resources like admissions assistance, academic workshops, 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 Jesus Tarango, Chairman of Wilton Rancheria. “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. This partnership not only honors our heritage, but also helps ensure that Native students have the support they need to excel academically and
beyond.”
“We are honored to support Sacramento State Athletics and its amazing programs, which are a major point of pride for the entire community,” said Michael J. Facenda, Sky River Casino President. “Our local universities serve as an important pathway to a successful future, and we know participating in sports can make a tremendous difference in achieving goals and reaching entirely new heights.”
Key elements of the multi-year Sky River Casino partnership with Sacramento State Athletics/Hornets that fans will see and experience at home games include the following:
- Causeway Classic Presenting Sponsor for 2024 and 2026 along with presenting sponsor for a 2025 Sacramento State football home game;
- The “Sky River Casino End Zone” VIP area, complete with eye-catching, on-field signage and a branded tent with promotional giveaways in the highly visible End Zone area;
- Sky River Casino will be the proud sponsor of in-game activities and promotions at all home football games that include a fun game titled “High/Low with Sky River Casino” played with giant playing cards and prizes provided by the casino;
- Opportunity for fans to win prizes during Sacramento State home sporting events.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sky River Casino and Wilton Rancheria into the Sacramento State Athletics family,” said Mark Orr, 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.”
Valued at nearly $250,000 over the course of the agreement, the new partnership is effective immediately and continues through June 2027. In addition to brand recognition and involvement at Sacramento State, Sky River Casino will acknowledge the partnership on-site inside the casino located off Highway 99 in Elk Grove.
