The 2026 UMB Bank Fiesta Sports Foundation Football Kickoff, presented by Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event for college football fans. With keynote speakers Mike Gundy, former head coach at Oklahoma State, and Jack Swarbrick, past Athletic Director at Notre Dame, there’s real promise for some behind-the-scenes stories and honest insight into the sport.
It’s all happening August 21, 2026, at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Expect photo ops, meet-and-greets, and a college football experience that goes way beyond the basics.
Event Overview and Keynote Speakers
This is Arizona’s flagship college football event, and it kicks off the 2026-27 season. Attendees get the rare chance to hear from two of the sport’s most influential personalities: Mike Gundy and Jack Swarbrick.
Both have decades of experience, and their perspectives are bound to paint a pretty vivid picture of where college football’s been and where it’s headed.
Mike Gundy’s Legacy
Mike Gundy led Oklahoma State’s football program from 2005 to 2025. He racked up a 170-90 record and took the Cowboys to 18 bowl games.
Some of the most unforgettable moments under Gundy came in the Fiesta Bowl and Rate Bowl—like the wild comeback over Notre Dame in the 2022 Fiesta Bowl and that overtime thriller against Stanford in 2012.
*I’m honored to be a part of the UMB Bank Fiesta Sports Foundation Football Kickoff this summer,* Gundy said. His involvement really highlights how much weight this event carries in the college football world.
Jack Swarbrick’s Impact
Jack Swarbrick’s run as Notre Dame’s Athletic Director from 2008 to 2024 was packed with big moments. He played a major part in the creation and evolution of the College Football Playoff—first the original four-team setup, then the expanded 12-team format.
Notre Dame saw deep playoff runs and plenty of high-profile bowl games under his leadership. Swarbrick’s efforts helped keep the program among the nation’s elite.
*Fiesta Sports Foundation represents everything that is right about college football,* Swarbrick said. He pointed to the group’s commitment to community, operational excellence, and the student-athlete experience.
Event Details and Schedule
The 2026 UMB Bank Fiesta Sports Foundation Football Kickoff is set for Friday, August 21, at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Things get started with a VIP session at 11 a.m.—that’s where you’ll find the exclusive photo ops and meet-and-greets with Gundy and Swarbrick.
The pregame networking session opens to everyone at 11:30 a.m., and the main program follows at 12:15 p.m. The day wraps up with the Yellow Jacket Overtime happy hour at 2:30 p.m.
Ticket and Sponsorship Information
Tables are on sale now at the Fiesta Sports Foundation website. Prices start at $3,150 for a table of 10, and there are higher tiers if you want better perks or seating.
VIP tables, which include the meet-and-greet and valet parking, go for $9,250. If you’re feeling ambitious, event sponsorships are available for $15,000 and land you a VIP table right in front of the main stage.
Got questions or need details? Reach out to the Fiesta Sports Foundation Ticket Office at 480-350-0911 or email [email protected].
Why Attend the Fiesta Sports Foundation Football Kickoff?
This event is more than just a kickoff; it’s a celebration of everything that makes college football great. Here’s a taste of what’s in store:
- Exclusive photo opportunities with iconic college football trophies and traditions
- Interactive games for everyone
- Recognition of Fiesta Bowl All-State boys tackle and girls flag football high school teams
- Spotlights on the Foundation’s philanthropic work, including the Wishes for Teachers program
Part of each table sale helps provide Rate Bowl tickets to veterans, kids, and teachers through the Send-A-Vet, Send-A-Kid, and Send-A-Teacher Community Champions program.
UMB Bank’s Partnership
UMB Bank is sticking with the Fiesta Sports Foundation as the title sponsor for this year’s kickoff. John Damiris, president of UMB Bank – Arizona Region, said, *With two keynote speakers of the caliber of Mike Gundy and Jack Swarbrick, the 2026 UMB Bank Fiesta Sports Foundation Football Kickoff is shaping up to be an extraordinary day that reflects what both of our organizations care about most – community, leadership, and the power of college football to bring people together.*
Looking Ahead: Bowl Season in Arizona
The Vrbo Fiesta Bowl will host a CFP Quarterfinal this year, set for Wednesday, December 30, 2026, in Glendale. Arizona’s bowl season also brings the Rate Bowl and the Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe—so, honestly, it’s a packed and exciting stretch for college football fans.
Join the Celebration
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the 2026 UMB Bank Fiesta Sports Foundation Football Kickoff. Keynote speakers Mike Gundy and Jack Swarbrick will be there, so you know it’s going to be something special.
This event is a rare opportunity to hear insider takes on college football and soak up the energy as a new season gets underway. Want in? Secure your table now and help the Fiesta Sports Foundation back community, leadership, and the spirit of college football.
For more details and to grab your tickets, check out the official event page.
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