Rice Athletics welcomed fans to Rice Stadium Aug. 22 for its annual Fan Fest, bringing together student-athletes, coaches and supporters to celebrate the start of a new year of competition.
The free event featured members of the Rice volleyball, soccer, women’s basketball and women’s golf teams, who participated in autograph sessions and question-and-answer sessions with head coaches Lindsay Edmonds, Genny Volpe and Joanne Berglund.
The evening also offered fans an early look at the 2026 Rice football team. Head coach Scott Abell’s Owls took the field for the 15th practice of training camp ahead of their Sept. 5 season opener against Houston Christian University. Players remained on the field afterward for an autograph session with fans.
“We’re so grateful to all the alumni and fans who came out to Fan Fest and brought the energy on a hot day,” said Eric George, Rice’s interim athletic director. “It’s critical for us to engage with the community, and this was an excellent opportunity for our student-athletes, coaches and staff to interact with our Owls supporters. We hope to see everyone at our events throughout the year.”
Fan Fest included activities for fans of all ages. The Kids’ Zone featured inflatables, a balloon artist and face painter, spirit training with the Owls’ cheer and dance teams and opportunities to take photos with Sammy the Owl. The first 200 Rice students in attendance received free pizza from Zalat Pizza.
Rice Athletics sponsors also helped add to the festivities with Los Tios, Marriott Med Center, Portillo’s, Raising Cane’s, MidFirst Bank and Hungry’s offering giveaways throughout Rice Stadium’s West Concourse. Fans had the chance to win exclusive prizes from sponsor locations with winners selected during football practice.
The event also featured Rice merchandise and ticket opportunities, including the latest Nike apparel at the team store, additional gear at the Surplus Sale and information from staff about season and single-game tickets for fall sports.
Learn more about Rice sports or purchase tickets at Rice Athletics’ web page.