Previous Responses
- October 19, 2006
- June 7, 2006
- May 2, 2006
- March 16, 2006
- Feb. 15, 2006
- Jan. 14, 2006
- Nov. 7, 2005
- Oct. 27, 2005
- Oct. 18, 2005
- Oct. 4, 2005
- Sept. 22, 2005
Aug. 28, 2006
SAN DIEGO - Almost everywhere I go these days I am asked about the stadium issue. The questions surround our relationships with the Chargers and the City, the usefulness of the current stadium, the location of a new stadium, and a game plan for getting it done.
My job is a simple one; to do all I can to advance the interests of San Diego State. That includes ensuring that we have a football stadium that will provide a first class venue for our team and our fans, and one that can allow us to compete financially with our competitors when it comes to game day revenue.
As you know, we are the only university in San Diego that has major college football. San Diego State isn't going anywhere. We will not only remain but will grow as a major university in this community! It is therefore critical that we have a stadium for decades to come; for the Aztecs and the Chargers, for the Holiday and Poinsettia Bowls, and hopefully for future Super Bowls.
We must be ready with a plan under all scenarios. We understand and agree that the Chargers must look at all options available to them for new locations in the San Diego area. We will work closely with them as these other sites are examined. We also hope to bring something to that table; at the very least a consensus of support from our university, its alumni and supporters.
We have been in constant communication with the Chargers, and have been very pleased with the working relationship that we have developed with Dean Spanos and his Charger colleagues. Mr. Spanos has always responded "yes" whenever we have asked for assistance, accommodations, or other help with regard to the current stadium and our operations therein. He appreciates San Diego State as a major asset in San Diego and as a partner/co-tenant of the stadium.
We also have had productive dialogue with leaders in our community, including Mayor Sanders, County Supervisors Ron Roberts and Dianne Jacob, and others. All have assured us that they value the importance of San Diego State as the only Division I-A football program in San Diego, and are committed to a successful conclusion to the stadium issue. They understand that the over 100,000 San Diego State graduates in San Diego, and the thousands of other supporters, are eager to enjoy, and deserving of, a great venue for Aztec Football.
San Diego State, through President Weber, has made a substantial financial investment in and commitment to football. That commitment has enabled us to hire Coach Long and his outstanding staff. In short, we are determined to be the best we can be. A great stadium for our fans is an essential part of that.
In closing, let me say how important it is that the huge Aztec population in San Diego and Southern California, and all others who support San Diego State, be strong and vocal in their support of a first class venue for both the Aztecs and the Chargers. Let your voices be heard! Talk with your representatives, your friends and your fellow supporters. Make sure the Aztec voice is heard in support of a new stadium, a stadium that can create a great environment for all of you to enjoy professional and major college football for years to come!
Go Aztecs!
Jeff Schemmel
Director of Athletics
San Diego State University