For more than a decade, the Sunflower Bank Kickoff Kid program has been a game day tradition at Kansas State University, offering young fans a unique opportunity to be part of the action while strengthening our ties to the Wildcat community. From starting as a creative banking promotion to becoming a beloved fixture at Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Kickoff Kid combines our passion for Wildcat football with our commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for families.
How It All Started
Our connection to K-State football began in the late 1990s when we partnered with Kansas State Hall of Fame wide receiver Kevin Lockett to introduce the “Lockett CD” — a special certificate of deposit with an initial 5.00% APY that could climb as high as 7.50% APY based on the team’s performance.
With the success of that promotion, Kansas State invited Sunflower Bank to become the official Kickoff Kid sponsor in 2009. Backed by our leadership team, board of directors, and the Hale and Vanier families — all with deep ties to the university — the program quickly became part of the Kansas State game day tradition.
The Ultimate Game Day Experience
Each season, Kindergarten through 8th grade students can enter to win by visiting one of our branches or signing up online. Six winners, one for each home game, are chosen to represent Sunflower Bank on the field.
The prize package includes:
- Access to the pre-game hospitality tent
- Four game tickets with an excellent view of the field
- Sideline access during kickoff
- A $100 K-State Team Store gift card
- Recognition on the in-stadium video boards as the Sunflower Bank Kickoff Kid
For these young fans, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to stand on the sidelines and cheer on their favorite players.
More Than Just Wildcats
While the program is rooted in Wildcat country, Kickoff Kid brings people together from across our footprint. Fans from our neighboring states are welcome to join in and make game day a celebration that reaches far beyond the stadium in Manhattan, KS.
Learn more about the Kickoff Kid program on our web page and we look forwarding to seeing more of our wonderful customers and their families out at the stadium!