TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – As the University of Arizona marks a historic century of its iconic “Bear Down” motto, a landmark partnership between the university, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, and Casino Del Sol is bringing fresh energy to campus and Southern Arizona. Celebrating its inaugural season under the new naming rights agreement, Casino Del Sol Stadium is set to take center stage this weekend as thousands of Wildcat alumni and fans converge in Tucson for Homecoming festivities.
Speaking on Tucson Now, Casino Del Sol Interim CEO Amanda Sampson Lomayesva shared that the multi-faceted relationship is grounded in community commitment, educational outreach, and deep local heritage. Beyond visible branding on the stadium, the partnership actively connects student-athletes with Pascua Yaqui youth through school backpack drives, athletic camps, and future internship opportunities—empowering young tribal members to envision their own higher-education pathways at the university.
“The Pascua Yaqui Tribe has been here for time immemorial, an integral part of the community historically,” Lomayesva noted, describing the immense pride felt by tribal leadership when seeing the Casino Del Sol Stadium signage unveiled. She added that bringing together two local staples—the tribe and Wildcats athletics—reinforces a shared sense of pride across the greater Tucson area…