# Middle Tennessee State University athletic events

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/middle-tennessee-state-university-athletic-events
> Updated: 2026-09-17T20:51:15.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 2.

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is conducting various athletic and commemorative events during the September 2026 season.

The university opened its football season at Floyd Stadium against Murray State, an event featuring a tribute to Tennessee icon Dolly Parton. During this game, players wore commemorative jersey patches with Parton’s signature and a butterfly motif.

Later in the month, MTSU athletics expanded to include the Rocky Top Invite tennis tournament in Knoxville. Additionally, the university scheduled its 44th annual ‘Salute to Veterans and Armed Forces Game’ against Nevada, which includes a Veterans Memorial Service and technical demonstrations such as drone deliveries and flight shows.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-17: Middle Tennessee State University hosts tennis invite and veterans game

Middle Tennessee State University will host the Rocky Top tennis invite in Knoxville and its 44th annual Salute to Veterans football game against Nevada on September 19.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/middle-tennessee-state-university-hosts-tennis-invite-and-veterans-game

### 2026-09-04: Middle Tennessee State hosts Murray State in 2026 season opener

Middle Tennessee State University opens its 2026 football season against Murray State, featuring a special tribute to Dolly Parton.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/middle-tennessee-state-hosts-murray-state-in-2026-season-opener

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Cite as: Middle Tennessee State University athletic events. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/middle-tennessee-state-university-athletic-events