By Jack Heffernan
In the spirit of the return of football season, we pick the top five prime attractions that await Portland State students who attend home games.
The home schedule at Hillsboro Stadium includes matchups with Northern Arizona on Oct. 1, Lincoln on Oct. 8, Weber State on Oct. 15, Northern Colorado on Nov. 5 and Sacramento State on Nov. 11. PSU athletics has worked hard to make game games affordable, accessible, festive and even a little competitive for students.
1. Games are FREE for students.
Students can attend home games for free with their PSU ID. Those who use their IDs will also receive a free concessions voucher for use within the stadium along with exclusive giveaways.
2. Transportation offerings have expanded and are, yes, FREE.
Beginning this season, fans who take the MAX Blue Line to the Orenco Station in Hillsboro can take a complimentary shuttle from the station to the stadium for select games. Like previous seasons, students can take a free shuttle between campus and the stadium each game. Find transportation details on the Viking Athletics website.
3. VikFest offers pre-game zest.
The inaugural season for the official pre-game party of PSU Athletics opens 90 minutes before each game and a few steps southwest of the stadium. Included are traditional tailgate fare, a private cash bar, two large screens playing the day’s biggest games, swag giveaways, appearances by mascot Victor E. Viking and performances by Vikings Cheer and Dance. Tickets are included in season ticket packages and $20 for individual games.
4. When the competitive juices flow, fans can join a Viking Raid.
Carnival-like games are available at Viking Raid on the east side of the field beginning 90 minutes before the game until the beginning of halftime. Fans can attempt a football toss and inflatable axe throwing, among other entertainment options.
5. Promos, because who wants FOMO?
Viking fans finally have the chance to cheer in person beginning in October with three consecutive home games. The home kickoff Oct. 1 is also Homecoming, followed by Family Day and a White Out on Oct. 8 and Viktoberfest on Oct. 15. The following month, the Vikings host a Salute to Service game on Nov. 5. Finally, the Vikings host Senior Night, with fans encouraged to wear Black Out dress attire, in a special Friday night game Nov. 11. See the promotions page for the myriad of games, activities, giveaways, tributes, ceremonies and cheering opportunities unique to each home game.
