Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has formally urged the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University Boards of Trustees to make the recently held football game between the Razorbacks and the Red Wolves a permanent fixture in Arkansas sports. The request follows what was described as a “historic moment” as the two teams faced off for the first time ever at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock.
Governor Sanders addressed her letter to the Boards of Trustees of both universities, calling on them to transform what was once seen as an impossible match into an annual tradition. The game, held earlier this week, drew attention from across the state and sparked immense enthusiasm among fans who had waited for decades to witness such a showdown.
“This special and long-overdue occasion united the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University in a way that fans across Arkansas have dreamed of for decades,” the governor wrote. “As trustees of your respective institutions, you share in the pride and passion of your fan bases—and you hold the ability to ensure this game is not a one-time event, but the beginning of a lasting tradition.”
Bringing New Energy to War Memorial Stadium
War Memorial Stadium, long considered a historic venue in Arkansas sports, has hosted countless legendary moments—but never before a game between the state’s two major university football programs. Governor Sanders emphasized the importance of this location for the proposed annual event, noting its central role in the lives of many Arkansans.
“As Governor, a native of Little Rock, and a lifelong football fan, I am calling on you to make this historic matchup an annual event at War Memorial Stadium, in the heart of our state,” she stated. “Generations of Arkansans have come to this stadium to cheer for their teams and witness some of the greatest moments in Arkansas sports history—but never before for a game like this.”
A Unified Vision for the Future
The governor’s letter framed the call for action not only as a sports initiative, but as an opportunity to foster unity, tradition, and community pride across Arkansas. She concluded by offering her full support to both institutions in making the annual game a reality.
“I urge you to work together to secure this tradition for the people of Arkansas. If I may be of any assistance in this effort, please do not hesitate to call on me,” Governor Sanders wrote.
The decision now rests with the Boards of Trustees, who hold the power to turn this once-in-a-lifetime matchup into a celebrated annual rivalry that could define a new era in Arkansas college football.
