Youngstown State University is gearing up for its much‑anticipated season‑opening showdown against the University of Kentucky, scheduled for 1 p.m. on September 5 at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky. The matchup marks the first meeting between the Penguins and the Wildcats in over a decade and promises a high‑energy atmosphere for both fan bases.
Ticket Sale Timeline
The rollout follows a clear schedule: priority sales began August 3, alumni and club members could buy on August 5, and the broader public entered the market on August 7. This staggered approach ensures that the most dedicated supporters receive first access while still allowing the wider fan base to secure seats before the August 18 deadline.
All tickets are priced at $65 and are distributed digitally, with each purchase placing the seat in section 13 of Kroger Field. Students must present a valid YSU ID to buy a single ticket, and sales will remain open until August 18, the final day for purchases.
Because tickets are issued exclusively in digital format, buyers will receive a QR code via email that grants entry on game day. The system is designed to streamline gate access and reduce wait times, reflecting the university’s push toward a modern, contact‑less experience.
Beyond the Kentucky game, the Penguins will open their 2026 campaign on August 27 against Mercyhurst at Stambaugh Stadium, also in section 13. The Athletic Ticket Office, located at the north end of Stambaugh Stadium, can be reached at (330) 941‑1978 for any questions.