Alaska Airlines will become the official airline of San Diego State Athletics and Snapdragon Stadium, while also being added as a name sponsor for the Mission Valley venue’s southeast gate.
As part of the three-year deal negotiated by JMI Sports, the gate entrance will feature a giant plane replica –and perks for particular fans.
The Snapdragon partnership will benefit fans who hold Alaska Airlines Visa cards and/or Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan memberships. Those using the airline’s mobile app will enjoy expedited entry through a dedicated lane at all Snapdragon events, including SDSU football, San Diego Wave, San Diego FC (the new Major League Soccer franchise) and San Diego Legion games, concerts and more.
“Snapdragon Stadium is a great venue for unique partnerships like this that can create value-added benefits for fans and brands alike,” said Athletic Director John David Wicker. “This new relationship will give Alaska Airlines cardholders a smoother and quicker entry through the southeast gate at all Snapdragon Stadium events, allowing more time to enjoy one of the top stadiums in the U.S.”
Alaska Airlines has more nonstop destinations from San Diego than any other airline, which offers the possibility of greater travel convenience for fans attending games and events at Snapdragon.
“We are thrilled to announce this partnership as part of our ongoing commitment to San Diego,” said the airlines’ Managing Director of Marketing and Advertising, Eric Edge. “Connecting with our guests at moments that deliver joy is something special – be it cheering on their college football team or catching their favorite band when in town.”
SDSU and JMI Sports entered into a 10-year multimedia partnership with the goal of developing relationships with sponsors and generating new revenue to support athletic programs while enhancing the student-athlete and fan experience.
The partnership began in May 2014 when JMI Sports served as construction manager for the Jeff Jacobs JAM Center, the Aztecs’ basketball practice facility.
JMI Sports was co-founded by technology entrepreneur John Moores, former owner of the San Diego Padres, who also is the force behind major real estate and equity firms.
