PULLMAN – At the turn of the 20th century, football teams from the University of Washington and Washington State University met in competition for the very first time. Around that same period, William E. Boeing left Yale University engineering school to head West and, ultimately, lead the state of Washington to the forefront of the aviation industry.
More than 100 years have now passed and the Washington – Washington State University rivalry, termed the Apple Cup beginning in 1962, and Boeing have evolved into two highly recognizable brands.
Boeing, in partnership with the University of Washington and Washington State, has extended its significant commitment to the athletic and academic excellence of the two institutions through a presenting sponsorship of the annual Apple Cup contest. The partnership will include networking and educational opportunities for students at both institutions as well as help emphasize the importance of the Apple Cup to the culture of the state of Washington.
“Boeing is proud to be the title sponsor of the Apple Cup, a tradition deeply rooted in the history of the state of Washington,” said Bob Watt, Boeing vice president, state & local government and global Corporate citizenship. “At Boeing, giving back to the places we call home is one of our core values, and this sponsorship adds another dimension to the investments we already make to strengthen our communities and make them better, more vibrant places to live and work.”
The 100th Apple Cup game is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 24, in UW’s Husky Stadium. A number of related celebration events are currently in the planning stages, including a special luncheon in downtown Seattle for both UW and WSU fans.
“The University of Washington and Washington State University thank Boeing and its employees for their long-time educational partnership,” said Chris Bloomfield, general manager of ISP Sports. “By creating opportunities for students in the fields of engineering, business and technology, Boeing has shown a commitment to cutting edge research and educational advancement. This commitment is what helps solidify the University of Washington and Washington State University’s status as world-class institutions.”
