CHICAGO, Ill. (May 26, 2026) – Chicago State Football officially took another step toward its historic inaugural season as incoming and returning student-athletes moved onto campus on May 22 to begin summer workouts and preparations for the program's first season of competition.
The move-in marked the arrival of members of Head Football Coach Bobby Rome II's inaugural recruiting class, joining returning student-athletes who completed the Spring 2026 semester. The student-athletes will spend the summer engaged in strength and conditioning, academic support, team-building activities, and football development as the countdown to kickoff continues.
"The energy around our program continues to grow, and it was exciting to welcome our student-athletes to campus," said Bobby Rome II. "Move-in day represented another important milestone for Chicago State Football as we continue preparing for our inaugural season. Our student-athletes are eager to get to work and represent Chicago State University."
As preparations continue throughout the summer, the Cougars will focus on building team chemistry, developing on the field, and establishing the foundation for long-term success both academically and athletically.
Chicago State Football will make history on August 29, 2026, when the Cougars open their inaugural season against Roosevelt University. The matchup will mark the first football game in university history and the culmination of years of planning and preparation.
With student-athletes now on campus and summer preparations underway, excitement continues to build across the university and throughout the City of Chicago as the inaugural season draws closer.
"Our student-athletes understand the significance of what they're building," Rome added. "They will forever be remembered as the pioneers who helped establish
Chicago State Football. We can't wait to see them grow together throughout the summer and into the fall."
Join Us for History
Chicago State Athletics invites alumni, students, faculty, staff, and supporters throughout Chicago to be part of this historic journey by supporting the Cougars during their inaugural season.
Season tickets are available now. Fans can purchase tickets and find additional football information by visiting
GoCSUCougars.com/Tickets.
