UTICA — The Utica University Pioneers are ready to take on the University of Rochester Yellowjackets in the fifth annual New York State Tool Believe Bowl. Both universities have committed to a two-year contract to battle against one another in Utica’s annual charity game.

This year’s Believe Bowl kicks off tonight at 7 at the Charles A. Gaetano Stadium at Utica University, 1600 Burrstone Road. Tickets for the game are $5 for adults and $2 for children and non-Utica University students. First responders will receive complimentary admission. The Pioneers are calling for an “orange out” and encourage all attendees to wear orange and show off their Pioneer pride.

The Believe Bowl honors firefighters who risk their health and their lives to extinguish fires. According to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, cancer is the most dangerous threat to a firefighter’s health and safety today and firefighting increases cancer risks significantly for every firefighter.

Utica University Football Head Coach Blaise Faggiano thanked the people from New York State Tool, Believe 271 Foundation and everyone else involved in establishing the Believe Bowl and making it a Utica University tradition.

“They decided to create an event that gives back to our community here in the Mohawk Valley, an event that highlights the ideals of Utica University and recognizes those suffering from cancer, as well as those children in the Thea Bowman House,” Faggiano said.

Faggiano also named two honorary captains for tonight’s Believe Bowl game:

• John Stark, fire chief of the Floyd Fire Department; and
• Thomas Phelps, firefighter with the Maynard Fire Department.

Stark was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma back in May 2021 and is still serving as fire chief with the Floyd Fire Department. Phelps was diagnosed with aggressive stage 4 liver cancer in May 2022. Phelps passed away on Aug. 1.

The university recognized both honorary captains and presented them with Utica football jerseys. Phelps’ son Jacob accepted his father’s jersey posthumously.

A select number of Utica football jerseys that will be worn by the athletes tonight during the Believe Bowl are currently being auctioned off, with proceeds benefitting the Believe 271 Foundation and the Thea Bowman House.

Anyone looking to bid on the jerseys can visit: uticapioneers.com/sports/2021/ 8/30/utica-football-jersey-auction.aspx