San Diego State University is taking the first step toward renovating Viejas Arena by surveying students and concertgoers.

Viejas, which opened in 1997, is home to Aztec men’s and women’s basketball and the San Diego Mojo, a professional volleyball team. In addition, the arena hosts concerts, graduations, comedy shows and other events.

The survey aims to collect feedback on fan experiences, which will inform future renovations.

“I think it’s great that SDSU and AS (Associated Students) are asking students what they want out of potential renovations,” said Brittany Cruz-Fejeran, an SDSU student. “Even though Viejas is open to the public, the arena is a place that students have pride in…the place is definitely part of the SDSU identity.”

Many students said they looked forward to being able to share their ideas for the space, including their thoughts on adding new features and reutilizing the existing space.

Students have suggested increasing food and beverage options, adding cup holders to seats and creating pre-event social opportunities.

“As far as the arena is concerned itself I think having more fan fair type stuff would be really intriguing, similar to how tailgates before a football game are popular, make Viejas a destination for social spots, not just a venue for events,” said Jared Knobloch, an SDSU student.

Others suggested the student section should be expanded as there is a limited number of free student tickets. Students who aren’t able to get one have to buy single-game tickets or miss the game.

Currently, 2,500 of the over 12,000 seats in Viejas Arena are reserved for students. SDSU has a student population of nearly 36,000.

“The students are the spirit of the school,” said Abigail Segviano, an SDSU student. “The students should be able to enjoy a basketball game instead of battling online for a ticket.”

Aztec basketball has generated an especially high interest in the last two years when students and fans watched the team play for the March Madness championship in 2023 and up to the Sweet Sixteen in 2024.

“I think the basketball experience right now is undoubtedly one of the best in the country,” said Knobloch. “Our team has had its best two-year run in program history these last couple of seasons, I think fans right now are currently reaping the benefit of what took many years to build up…I genuinely think the atmosphere at Viejas is amazing.”

Students’ enthusiasm and interest in the renovation study shows the significance of the project, a sentiment shared by SDSU Athletics leaders who assert that the project extends beyond simply physical renovations.

“A renovation study for Viejas Arena isn’t just about upgrading infrastructure; it’s about identifying options for enhancing the social connectedness of our students and our broader campus and regional communities where we can come together, celebrate and create lasting memories at SDSU,” Tim Ripke, Viejas Arena director for Associated Students, said in a press release.