Sports arena to be named "Viejas"

SDSU's Cox Arena to be called 'Viejas'

Casino-owning tribe's deal draws criticism San Diego State University has sold the naming rights of its sports arena to the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, which operates a casino, an outlet center and other businesses at its reservation 22 miles east of campus.

Critics say the deal, apparently a first in the nation for a university, could cross a line and hurt students, who are particularly vulnerable to gambling problems.

Beginning July 1, the 12,845-seat venue known as Cox Arena will be Viejas Arena. The $6.9 million, 10-year deal includes a proviso against using the word “casino” on signs and advertising or making any reference to gambling.

“We are always paying attention to those issues,” SDSU President Stephen Weber said of the gambling tie. “San Diego State is more than its athletic teams. Viejas is more than its casino.”Comment:  This is a good example of what I've said before: that tribes need better PR. Getting involved in sports and entertainment ventures like this is one way to do it.

For more on the subject, see The Facts About Indian Gaming.