PISCATAWAY, N.J. – Rutgers Athletics, in collaboration with Scarlet Knight Enterprises, announced a new partnership with Veteran Tickets Foundation (Vet Tix), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing complimentary tickets to veterans, active-duty military personnel, first responders and their families.
The partnership will provide eligible Vet Tix members with opportunities to attend all ticketed Rutgers Athletics events, while recognizing the service and sacrifice of those who serve their communities and country. Rutgers season ticket holders will have the opportunity to give back to veterans and first responders by donating tickets to select games from their season ticket packages. The initiative reinforces Rutgers’ commitment to community engagement and using the power of sports to bring people together.
The first opportunity for fans to donate tickets is the Military Appreciation game on Nov. 14 at SHI Stadium against Nebraska. Kickoff is set for 12:30 p.m. and the game will feature recognitions to current service members, veterans and ROTC throughout the day. The Scarlet Knights will wear their American flag Block R helmets and various military vehicles will be stationed along The Rutgers Boardwalk. Fans will have a unique opportunity to hold the U.S. flag on the field during the anthem.
“At Rutgers, we recognize the extraordinary commitment and sacrifice of our military members, veterans and first responders,” said Fred Mangione, President and CEO, Scarlet Knight Enterprises. “We are proud to partner with Vet Tix to show our appreciation in a meaningful way. Rutgers Athletics has a unique ability to unite communities across New Jersey, and this partnership allows us to extend the Scarlet Knights experience to those who have given so much in service to others.”
The partnership will also create opportunities to raise awareness of Vet Tix’s mission throughout the Rutgers community and recognize the contributions of military personnel and first responders across New Jersey and beyond. Rutgers military merchandise is available for purchase online at the Team Shop.
“Rutgers’ connection to our nation’s service members runs deep,” said Michael A. Focareto, Vet Tix Founder and CEO and U.S. Navy veteran. “This is a university that has commissioned military officers nearly every year since 1916. That kind of enduring commitment makes Rutgers a natural partner for us, and we’re honored to help bring Scarlet Knights games to veterans, active military members, first responders and their families.”
Founded in 2008, Vet Tix has distributed over 42 million complimentary tickets to sporting events, concerts, performing arts and family entertainment experiences nationwide. Through its Vet Tix and 1st Tix programs, the organization serves more than 2.5 million verified members, helping reduce stress, strengthen family bonds and encourage meaningful connections within local communities.
Eligible veterans and service members can learn more about available tickets and register at www.VetTix.org, while eligible first responders can visit www.1stTix.org. Ticket availability for Rutgers Athletics events will vary by event.
About Rutgers Athletics
The Rutgers Department of Intercollegiate Athletics (Rutgers Athletics), comprised of 24 men’s and women’s varsity sports serving more than 730 student-athletes, is a member of the Big Ten Conference and governed by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Rutgers is the Birthplace of College Football, hosting the first-ever collegiate matchup on Nov. 6, 1869, a 6-4 victory over Princeton. Rutgers Athletics is uniquely positioned in the nation’s largest media market with over seven million television households, along with access to Big Ten Network and its nearly 60 million homes across the U.S. and Canada. Established in 1766, Rutgers University is the State University of New Jersey and eighth oldest higher education institution in the country. As a premier academic institution, Rutgers is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. Follow Rutgers Athletics on Facebook, X and Instagram for all of the latest news and updates. Also visit ScarletKnights.com for additional information on Rutgers Athletics.
About Scarlet Knight Enterprises, Inc.
Scarlet Knight Enterprises, a dedicated corporate entity, was created to support the business functions of Rutgers Athletics, leading multimedia rights, corporate partnerships, ticketing strategy, premium hospitality and Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) initiatives. Established as part of Rutgers’ modernized approach to the evolving collegiate athletics landscape, Scarlet Knight Enterprises is designed to unlock new revenue opportunities, strengthen regional and national partnerships, enhance fan engagement and position Rutgers Athletics as an industry leader in innovation and commercial growth. Guided by an experienced board and executive leadership team, the organization serves as a forward-thinking business platform focused on delivering sustainable resources and competitive advantages for Rutgers Athletics and its student-athletes.