SAN JOSÉ, Calif. — San José State Athletics made history on Saturday, hosting its first-ever pregame concert as part of the inaugural Sparta Kickoff Fest outside CEFCU Stadium. Nearly 2,000 fans, including SJSU students, packed the tailgate area to enjoy an energetic performance by Bay Area hip-hop artist LaRussell, featuring local wineries and breweries, all before watching the Spartans defeat Hawai’i, 45-38, in front of a spirited home crowd, presented by Habbas Law.
The festival atmosphere was electric as fans filled the Spartan Block Party, where numerous Bay Area professional teams, including the San Francisco Giants, joined in celebrating the Spartan community. The event underscored San José State Athletics’ growing investment in its fans and students, delivering an enhanced gameday experience that blended music, local flavor, and Spartan pride.
“This was more than a concert; it was a celebration of our students, our fans, and the Bay Area,” said San José State Athletics Director Jeff Konya. “We’re committed to creating unforgettable experiences that make every game day at CEFCU Stadium something special.
"We couldn't have pulled this off without the efforts of the University Cabinet, staff, and leaders around campus and within our athletics department. I applaud all of their efforts, including the vision of our President, Cynthia Teniente-Matson, in helping create a tremendous night at CEFCU Stadium."
Following the concert, the crowd poured into CEFCU Stadium, fueling an electric atmosphere as the Spartans surged to victory over the Rainbow Warriors, which included 630 yards of offense, the most in over a decade against a Mountain West opponent. With the success of this first-ever pregame concert, San José State Athletics continues to elevate its fan experience and strengthen its connection to the Bay Area community.
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