The University Student Union Recreation Center treated Fresno State students Thursday night to free bowling, billiards and Xbox for its beginning of the semester open house event.

The USU Recreation Open House happens every semester, said Patricia Thomason, USU Recreation Center manager.

“The purpose of this open house is to get people to know that we’re here,” said Thomason. “We want students to get familiarized with the facilities.”

Only students who presented a valid Fresno State student identification card were admitted.

Fresno State students who attended the event received a “paw pass” that offers additional discounts throughout the semester for use of the USU facilities.

Students also had an opportunity to participate in a free drawing. Winners received Universal Studios Hollywood tickets, movie tickets, Target gift cards, Starbucks gift cards or coupons.

Thomason said the event always has a good turnout.

An estimated 150 students were said to have participated in the open house event throughout its two-hour run from 7 to 9 p.m.

Alex Ramirez, a sophomore majoring in business, had only good things to say about the event.

“I think it’s awesome,” Ramirez said. “Who wouldn’t want to go to free bowling? It just sounds cool.

“I expect to have some fun with a few of my college friends,” Ramirez said. “Other people should go. It’s a good place to go meet new people in college and make new friends.”

“I just hope that students find the facility to be nice and enjoyable and comfortable for them,” Thomason said. “We have a lot of students that hang out here even if they’re not bowling or taking a class, and that’s what we’re here for.”