Sky River Casino in Elk Grove and Sacramento State Athletics announced Friday that the casino has signed as an official partner of Sacramento State Athletics. The multi-year partnership also includes title sponsorship of the Causeway Classic football game between UC Davis and Sacramento State on Saturday, Nov. 23.
UC Davis vs. Sacramento State football game will feature prominent on-field and stadium signage
The college football game will be highlighted by prominent on-field and stadium signage, along with in-person involvement by Wilton Rancheria. This matchup will also include a special presentation recognizing Native American Heritage Day.
The recognition will feature 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.
𝙃𝙊𝙍𝙉𝙀𝙏𝙎 𝙃𝙄𝙏 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙅𝘼𝘾𝙆𝙋𝙊𝙏 🐝
Sacramento State Athletics and Sky River Casino sign a multi-year partnership agreement. Stingers up and Sky’s the Limit! pic.twitter.com/DhlRpJzqft
— Sac State Football (@SacHornetsFB) November 23, 2024
“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,” Sacramento State President Luke Wood said.
“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.”
Sky River Casino is the official sponsor of in-game activities and promotions at all Sacramento State home football games
According to the press release, key elements of the Sky River Casino partnership with Sacramento State Athletics 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;
- Opportunity for fans to win prizes during Sacramento State home sporting events;
- 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 enormous playing cards and prizes provided by the casino;
- The “Sky River Casino End Zone” VIP area, complete with on-field signage and a branded tent with promotional giveaways in the highly visible End Zone area.
During the Causeway Classic, there will also be a recognition highlighting Sacramento State’s Native American College. The Native American College supports Native American students via recruitment, retention, and academic success initiatives, in collaboration with the Esak’timá Center.
“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.”
Multi-year partnership is valued at nearly $250,000, continues through June 2027
Additionally, Sky River Casino will proudly acknowledge the partnership on-site inside the casino located just off Highway 99 in Elk Grove.
“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.
“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.”
Sac State celebrated its 75th anniversary during the 2022-23 academic year. The university was established in 1947, and it consists of seven academic colleges that each year prepare thousands of students for successful lives.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sky River Casino and Wilton Rancheria into the Sacramento State Athletics family,” Director of Athletics Mark Orr said. “Sky River has been an amazing community partner since its inception, and we look forward to working closely together in the future.”
The new partnership, which is valued at nearly $250,000 over the course of the agreement, is effective immediately and continues through June 2027.
