VSU Athletics Announces Partnership with Raising Cane’s

Valdosta State Athletics has entered into a new partnership with Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, timed to coincide with the brand’s first Valdosta restaurant opening on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, at 9 a.m. The flagship location sits at 1198 N. Saint Augustine Road and will mark the beginning of a year-long collaboration between the fast-growing chain and the Blazers.

The grand-opening event is free and open to the public. Attendees can expect appearances by Blaze, Valdosta State’s mascot, along with the Red Hots dance team and the VSU Cheer Team. A live DJ will provide music, and giveaways will run throughout the morning. In a highlight of the festivities, Raising Cane’s will award free meals for a year to 20 randomly selected guests.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Raising Cane’s to Valdosta and even more excited to partner with a brand that values community, energy and excellence,” VSU Director of Athletics Troy Katen said. “Raising Cane’s has a reputation for supporting athletic departments within their communities and this partnership allows us to connect our student-athletes, fans, visiting teams and the Valdosta community with a business that truly embraces school spirit and local engagement.”

Beyond the ribbon-cutting, the agreement calls for collaborative promotions and fan-engagement initiatives that will unfold across VSU’s 2026-27 sports calendar. Organizers say the goal is to deepen ties between campus athletics and local businesses while giving supporters fresh ways to celebrate Blazer sports.

Raising Cane’s leadership echoed that sentiment. “We are incredibly excited to bring Raising Cane’s to Valdosta,” Restaurant Leader Keith Hernandez said. “Valdosta has a strong sense of community, and that’s exactly the kind of place we love to call home. We can’t wait to create jobs, support local causes, and give fans a new spot to enjoy great food and good times.”

Fans are encouraged to arrive early Tuesday for the grand-opening celebration as Raising Cane’s officially plants its flag in South Georgia.