Final tailgate for HSU football team

Arcata, Ca., (KIEM) “Today were going to take it advantage of it, we’re going to support them, and we’re going to go out there and show them our love,” said Chris Emmons, HSU Jacks fan.

Humboldt State University Lumberjacks football team dug their cleats onto the field of the Redwood Bowl for the very last time, Saturday.

This comes after, Lisa Rossbacher, President of HSU declared the university’s lack of funds.

“There was an enormous effort over the last year and longer in the community but we just came up short and it’s really unfortunate it was such a difficult decision to make but it really was all about the budget.”

Supporters of all kind, all around the community were not too pleased.

“It’s really a shame that we’ve got an administration that does not care,” expressed Jim Redd, Co-chair of Save HSU athletes.

The university’s football program is about 90 years-old.

“Once we finish this game it’s just going to be a lot of tears and a lot of sadness for everybody because it’s a big transition going all of these years playing football and having a team, going from that to this having the program completely disappear,” said HSU Cheerleader, Nicole Silver.

Longtime jacks fans said longevity is what makes Saturday so bittersweet but added that they are at HSU to celebrate the boys, their accomplishments and the Lumberjack legacy.

Fans shared whether it be a tackle, fumble, or touchdown they wouldn’t want to fill the bleachers for no other.

“We’ve got some kids out there playing that have a horrible cloud over them but they’re not letting it bother them there representing university in the community well and I’d love to see them win,” said Emmons.