Long-time Arizonans know there is only one game that really matters. Even if we’re not football fans, we still gather once a year to root on our Sun Devils or Wildcats. Check out rivalry history and facts below to see how much you know about our state’s biggest competition.
About the Arizona State-University of Arizona Rivalry
Despite Arizona being a “newer” state (we were a territory until 1912), our main universities enjoy one of the oldest rivalries in history. In fact the territorial cup, which travels to the winning school each year, is the oldest rivalry trophy in the region’s history. Here are more facts about the two universities and their long-standing duel.
ASU vs. U of A Rivalry Facts:
- In 1899 ASU was known as the Normal School of Arizona: it served high school students and graduates training to become teachers.
- The first territorial cup football game took place in 1899: The Normal School won.
- After that first win, the Normal School wouldn’t win the territorial cup for another 42 years!
- The Normal School of Arizona changed to Arizona State College and became a four-year university in 1952.
- One of the most heated territorial cup games took place in 1968, and it became known as the “Ultimatum Bowl.”
- The territorial cup trophy was lost for a number of decades, and was finally discovered in 1980 in the basement of a church near Arizona State’s campus.
- The game is now known as the “Duel in the Desert” and is usually played the Friday after Thanksgiving.
About the University of Arizona
With students throughout the entire state, Primavera doesn’t take sides on which university is the best in Arizona. But we do work to provide resources for our students to make the best choice for themselves. In fact, every year, Primavera holds a Digital College Fair where we interview several different college representatives and invite students to ask questions to learn more about their options after high school. Here is the video of the University of Arizona’s presentation that was recorded just last month:
University of Arizona Digital College Fair Presentation
Facts About the University of Arizona
- The University of Arizona (U of A or UA) was the first university in Arizona, founded in 1868.
- UA’s mascot is a Wildcat, and you will often see Wilbur and Wanda Wildcats at sporting events.
- The UA basketball team has won multiple national titles.
- UA is right in the heart of Tucson, and is known for its rich diversity of students.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State has an interesting history. While it has only been a university since the early ’50s, the school itself has been around nearly as long as UA. It started as the Normal School of Arizona in the 1890’s and has transformed to one of the largest public universities today. Learn more about the school in a presentation from our Digital College Fair that took place last month:
Arizona State University Digital College Fair Presentation
A Few More Facts About Arizona State University
- While its name has changed a number of times, ASU school colors have stayed maroon and gold since 1896.
- ASU’s Sun Devil mascot has gone through many design changes. When Sparky made his first appearance, it was believed his face was modeled after Walt Disney.
- ASU is one of the largest public universities in the country, serving more than 75,000 students.
Panthers, if you have any more questions about ASU, UA or what to do after you graduate, don’t forget you can always talk with your guidance counselor! He/she is available via email (you can find email addresses on your PSP home page), or by phone at 480.456.6678.
- Who are you rooting for this Friday? Share with us in the comments below!
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