Press Releases

ELK GROVE, Calif.– Today, 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 includes title sponsorship of the Causeway Classic football game (Sacramento State vs. UC Davis) on Saturday, November 23, 2024.

The highly anticipated match-up will be highlighted by prominent on-field and stadium signage, plus in-person involvement by Wilton Rancheria, including 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.

“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.”

During the Causeway Classic, there will be 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," stated 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 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.”

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,” 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.”

Valued at nearly $250K over the course of the agreement, the new partnership is effective immediately and continues through June 2027. Sky River Casino is committed to connecting with and giving back to the local and regional community in a variety of ways and is proud to expand its alignment to support local sports and athletic programs.