BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. () — Chicago State University stepped into a historic new era Saturday, playing the first college football game in school history as the Cougars opened their inaugural season against Roosevelt University at SeatGeek Stadium.
The atmosphere outside the stadium felt like a long-awaited celebration, with tailgaters firing up grills and fans gathering across the grounds as students, alumni and supporters arrived to be part of the program’s debut.
The video in the player above is from a previous report.
For many Chicago State graduates, seeing the university finally field a football team carried special meaning after years of waiting.
Chicago State alumni Tameca and Jordonna said they remembered hearing talk of a football program two decades ago when they were students, making Saturday’s kickoff especially exciting after so much time had passed.
Other fans said they came out simply to back the Cougars as the university begins building its new football identity.
Kevin Waco said he wanted to show support for Chicago State, calling the effort impressive and adding that he hopes the football program continues to grow.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson was also on hand for the milestone moment, helping start the game with the ceremonial coin toss and saying the arrival of football marks an important step forward for Chicago State University.
“These are young men who are coming from all over and are looking to continue their football career but also get a good public education so it’s an exciting day for the city of Chicago,” Johnson said.
Chicago State generated excitement with early scores, but Roosevelt secured a 44-28 victory in the season opener.
Despite the result, supporters from both universities said the significance of the day extended beyond the final score.
“It’s really important for the neighborhood and community getting kids opportunities to not have to go further to a different state or further into our own state they can do it here in our own city,” said Roosevelt student Michael Smith.
Chicago State alumnus Carlos Green said he hopes the new program continues to attract attention and support.
“It’s just a great time man hopefully more people will hear about it more people will come out and support it not only is it good for the school it’s good for the community,” Green said.
Chicago State’s inaugural season will continue with a road game in Tennessee before the Cougars return to SeatGeek Stadium on Sept. 12.
