The Sam Houston Bearkats will play their 2025 home games in Houston at Shell Energy Stadium, home of the Dynamo and Dash.
Sam Houston State University announced Monday that the Bearkats will play their 2025 home football schedule in Houston at Shell Energy Stadium. This move comes as Bowers Stadium undergoes major renovations, prompting the team to relocate its home games for the upcoming season.
The partnership is subject to approval by the Texas State University System Board of Regents later this month.
Shell Energy Stadium, known for its state-of-the-art facilities, is the home of the Houston Dynamo FC and Houston Dash. It also hosts a variety of professional and collegiate sporting events, concerts and other special occasions.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for our program and our fans,” Sam Houston athletics director Bobby Williams said. “Playing at Shell Energy Stadium will provide a top-tier venue for our student-athletes to showcase their talent and for our fans to experience a dynamic, world-class atmosphere. We’re grateful to Shell Energy Stadium for their partnership in bringing the Bearkats to Houston for the 2025 season.”
Sam Houston has a rich history of success when playing in Houston. The Bearkats have previously showcased their talent at NRG Stadium, where they earned a comeback win over Texas State last season, and dominated Stephen F. Austin for a decade in the Battle of the Piney Woods. This success in Houston has built a strong following and connection with the city, making the move to Shell Energy Stadium a natural progression for the program.
“Playing in Houston has historically always been a part of our football program,” said Jason Barfield, SHSU’s Director of Broadcasting & Digital Media. “Sam Houston has thrived whenever new challenges are put in front of them, and we look forward to bringing our football program back to the city for the 2025 season.”
The relocation to Shell Energy Stadium will provide a unique experience for both players and fans in one of the region’s premier sports venues. The Bearkats will continue their 2025 season with a fresh setting, ensuring the excitement of college football in a world-class environment.
Further details about the approval process and the 2025 football schedule will be announced following the Board of Regents’ review later this month.