With the announcement of the Bulldog football schedule, the Fresno State Alumni Association has tentatively scheduled the university’s annual Homecoming Week activities around the Sept. 29 game at Bulldog Stadium against long-time rival San Diego State.

Aztecs and Bulldogs have been waging battle on the gridiron since 1923 and now find themselves once again in the same conference, the Mountain West, which Fresno State joins this fall. Last year the team played in San Diego in a nonconference, end-of-season affair. Fresno State’s loss leaves the rivalry at 27 victories for San Diego State, 20 for the Bulldogs and four ties.

But the 2011 game also marked the first Battle for the Old Oil Can, an tribute to the determination of fans who had to travel over the Grapevine to watch their teams play in San Diego or Fresno, driving cars far less reliable than today’s. It was always a good thing to bring along some oil, spare tires, tools and other parts. But the challenge was worth it to true fans.

With the rivalry renewed and newly named, it’s a natural for Homecoming, said Jacquelyn K. Glasener, executive director of the Fresno State Alumni Association.

On the schedule announced Thursday, March 15:

  • Sept. 28 – The 2012 Top Dog Alumni Awards Gala at the Save Mart Center, honoring Fresno State alumni who have distinguished themselves in their careers and service throughout the community.
  • Sept. 29 – The 2012 Golden Grad Reunion at the Smittcamp Alumni House, when the Alumni Association salutes the Class of 1962.
  • Sept. 29 – The P.A.W. (Parent Alumni Weekend) Homecoming Tailgate at Bulldog Diamond, when the Alumni Association and Parents Association host the pre-game festivities.
  • Sept. 29 – Fresno State Bulldogs vs. San Diego State Aztecs football game at Bulldog Stadium.
  • Sept. 30 – The P.A.W. Breakfast at the Smittcamp Alumni House presented by the Fresno State Alumni Association and the Parents Association.

Glasener said she was announcing the schedule at this time – even without complete details and ticket prices set – so people could put the Homecoming events on their calendar and make preliminary plans to attend.

As events are finalized, there will be additional announcements on the Alumni Association website: www.fresnostatealumni.com.