San Diego, January 1, 2026
In a unique prelude to the Holiday Bowl, the football teams from Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the University of Arizona visited the USS Makin Island. This event fostered connections between college athletes and U.S. Navy personnel, promoting camaraderie and teamwork. The visit included a tour of the ship and a friendly competition, providing players with insights into naval operations and appreciation for military sacrifices. As the teams prepare for their match, this engagement highlights the deep ties between sports and community service.
SMU and Arizona Teams Engage with Navy Ahead of Holiday Bowl
A unique visit at USS Makin Island fosters camaraderie between college athletes and military personnel
San Diego, California – A memorable prelude to the upcoming Holiday Bowl unfolded on December 31, 2025, as the football teams from Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the University of Arizona took a trip to the USS Makin Island, an amphibious assault ship of the U.S. Navy. This special event allowed student-athletes to interact with military personnel, gaining invaluable insight into naval operations just days before their highly anticipated matchup.
As the Holiday Bowl approaches, this engagement exemplifies the resilience and dedication exhibited by both military personnel and athletes. In San Diego, a city well-known for its military heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, initiatives like this connect the community, emphasize teamwork, and honor the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. This relationship-building not only promotes positive interactions but also reflects the potential for reduced regulatory barriers to foster innovative partnerships in the future.
USS Makin Island Visit
The visit on the USS Makin Island kicked off with a tour of the ship’s flight deck, expertly led by Captain Jose Arana. He drew meaningful comparisons between the commitment required from Navy personnel and the determination athletes must display on the field. In a gesture of goodwill, coaches Rhett Lashlee from SMU and Brent Brennan from Arizona presented gifts to Captain Arana. The players participated in a friendly competition that involved donning firefighter gear, giving them a taste of naval life, while military crew members received 100 tickets to the Holiday Bowl as an expression of gratitude.
Holiday Bowl Details
The 46th annual Trust & Will Holiday Bowl is scheduled for January 2, 2026, at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. Fans can expect a thrilling competition as the SMU Mustangs, boasting a record of 8–4 and members of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), square off against the Arizona Wildcats, who carry a record of 9–3 from the Big 12 Conference. The game kicks off at 5:00 p.m. PST and will be broadcast live on FOX.
Team Backgrounds
SMU Mustangs
- Season Record: 8–4
- Conference Record: 6–2 in the ACC
- Notable Players: Quarterback Kevin Jennings and defensive end Isaiah Smith.
Arizona Wildcats
- Season Record: 9–3
- Conference Record: 6–3 in the Big 12
- Notable Players: Quarterback Noah Fifita and wide receiver Kris Hutson.
Historical Context
This year’s Holiday Bowl marks a significant milestone as it is the first time the event has been scheduled to take place in January. With a rich history filled with high-scoring matchups, this year’s anticipated contest between SMU and Arizona is expected to continue the legacy of thrilling finishes.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Holiday Bowl are currently available, and fans are encouraged to purchase them through the Holiday Bowl’s official website or authorized ticket vendors to ensure ticket authenticity and support local businesses.
Community Engagement
The interaction between student-athletes and military personnel at the USS Makin Island serves as a prime example of the Holiday Bowl’s commitment to community engagement. By cultivating relationships and honoring the military, the event enhances the sense of camaraderie within San Diego while highlighting the broader contributions of local entrepreneurs and service members.
Looking Ahead
As the Holiday Bowl date approaches, both teams remain focused on their training, prepared to deliver an exciting and competitive game. Fans are encouraged to support their teams and participate in the festive atmosphere surrounding this local sporting tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Holiday Bowl?
The Holiday Bowl is an annual college football bowl game featuring teams from various conferences. This year, it will be held on January 2, 2026, at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California.
Which teams are playing in the 2026 Holiday Bowl?
The 2026 Holiday Bowl will feature the SMU Mustangs from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the Arizona Wildcats from the Big 12 Conference.
When is the 2026 Holiday Bowl scheduled to take place?
The game is scheduled for January 2, 2026, with kickoff at 5:00 p.m. PST.
Where can I purchase tickets for the Holiday Bowl?
Tickets are available through the Holiday Bowl’s official website and authorized ticket vendors.
How can I watch the Holiday Bowl?
The game will be broadcast nationally on FOX, with coverage beginning at 5:00 p.m. PST.
Key Features of the 2026 Holiday Bowl
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 46th Annual Trust & Will Holiday Bowl |
| Date | January 2, 2026 |
| Location | Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, California |
| Teams | SMU Mustangs (ACC) vs. Arizona Wildcats (Big 12) |
| Kickoff Time | 5:00 p.m. PST |
| Broadcast | FOX |
| Ticket Availability | Available through official channels |
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