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20,000+ Expected in Emporia for Three State Football Championships

Emporia State University is excited to host three State championship games and more than 20,000 visitors at Welch Stadium on Nov. 29 and 30. The 4A, 5A and 6A title games held over Thanksgiving weekend are anticipated to generate more than $1.5 million in economic impact for our community.

“We are proud to host these events on campus — there is no better way to showcase what our community has to offer,” said David Spafford, ESU vice president and director of athletics. “Our central location and Welch Stadium venue make Emporia State an ideal host site for large events.”

A total of six Kansas high schools will visit Emporia State for the three football games:

  • Friday, Nov. 29:
    • 2 p.m. — 6A game between Gardner Edgerton and Manhattan
  • Saturday, Nov. 30:
    • 1 p.m. — 4A game between Bishop Miege and Andover Central
    • 7 p.m. — 5A game between St. Thomas Aquinas and Hays

Emporia State University is gearing up to welcome families and will host campus and residence hall tours for potential students. The Bookstore and Starbucks in the Memorial Union will be open for business for the event. The hours of operation are:

  • Friday, Nov. 29
    • MU Bookstore — 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. + 10% discount on all sales.
    • Starbucks — 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Saturday, Nov. 30
    • MU Bookstore — 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:30 to 7 p.m. + 10% discount on all sales.
    • Starbucks — 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Volunteer Opportunity

There are several volunteer opportunities to sell tickets, programs and merchandise; work concession stands and take tickets. With three games scheduled, Spafford said volunteer spots are still available.

“We have 40 volunteer spots to fill,” he said. “The energy of a state championship game is an exciting experience.”

Anyone interested in volunteering to work at the games should reach out to Ashley Foraker at (620) 341-5349 or by email at aforaker@emporia.edu.

Get Tickets

For ticket information: https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/Football/State.cfm.