San Francisco, CA -- The Academy of Art University Athletics Department invites you to come celebrate its kickoff to the 2012-13 season, the first for ART U as full-fledged members of the NCAA, on September 5, 2012. For their first home match of the year, the Urban Knights will be in action under the lights at Kezar Stadium facing San Francisco State University in a battle of local squads. Be sure to check out the Facebook event here! ART U will be raising funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation with this special event. If you would like to submit a donation, please contact Colin Preston at cpreston@academyart.edu.

This past July, the Academy of Art University Athletics Department achieved a historic feat, gaining full NCAA Division II membership and becoming the first art school in the NCAA.

As the Urban Knights embark upon their new journey, their first home event of the 2012-13 season will feature the men's soccer team playing host to the Gators of San Francisco State at legendary Kezar Stadium. The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM following the proud introduction of each ART U athletic team and supporting staff.

Fans will have an opportunity to contribute to the Make-A-Wish Foundation prior to and at this special event. If you would like to make a donation, please contact Assistant Athletic Director Colin Preston at cpreston@academyart.edu for more information.


Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has enriched the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work. The Foundation's mission reflects the life-changing impact that a Make-A-Wish® experience has on children, families, referral sources, donors, sponsors, and entire communities.

Also among the festivities on this Wednesday evening will be a New Student Orientation Reception hosted by Campus Life where attendees can interact with student club leaders, join the Urban Knights Fan Club, and enjoy free concessions and snacks throughout.

The orientation will take place in the Kezar Pavilion parking lot from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. A separate student-athlete orientation will take place inside Kezar Pavilion from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Buses will be leaving from 620 Sutter every 15 minutes starting at 4:30 PM, so don't miss your chance to see men's soccer kick off a new era in Urban Knights Athletics!