UNI Athletics announced a new partnership with Vet Tix that will deliver complimentary tickets to all Panther football, volleyball, men's and women's basketball, and wrestling events throughout the 2026‑27 season for active duty service members, veterans and first responders.
Eligible individuals can claim tickets by creating an account on VetTix.org, where verification through ID.me confirms military affiliation before granting access to the events.
A proud collaboration
Scott Peace, Senior Associate AD for Revenue Generation at UNI Athletics, said the initiative reflects the university's gratitude toward those who serve, offering families a chance to share in the excitement of college athletics without financial barriers.
The partnership also includes a series of Military Appreciation games, highlighted by a football showdown against South Dakota State scheduled for November 7, providing a focal point for community recognition and celebration.
Vet Tix, founded by Michael A. Focareto III, a U.S. Navy veteran, has been distributing free tickets to military audiences since 2008. The organization, now expanded to include first responders through its 1st Tix program in 2018, has awarded over 40 million tickets to more than 2.8 million recipients.
Season ticket holders who cannot attend can donate unused tickets through their Paciolan accounts, sending them to donate@vettix.org for redistribution to those who qualify.
Vet Tix reports that more than 99 percent of its revenue is directed toward program funding, ensuring that the majority of resources support military families and community outreach.
Beyond the games, the initiative seeks to reduce stress, foster stronger family connections and encourage community engagement by providing shared experiences centered on sport and celebration.