San Jose is a passionate sports town with top-tier professional franchises and collegiate athletics.
* **San Jose Sharks (NHL)**: The heart and soul of the city's sports scene. The Sharks play at the **SAP Center** downtown, affectionately known to locals as the "Shark Tank." * **San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)**: A founding team of Major League Soccer, the "Quakes" play at **PayPal Park**, a soccer-specific stadium famous for having the largest outdoor bar in North America. * **San Jose Barracuda (AHL)**: The minor-league affiliate of the Sharks, they play their home games at the brand-new Tech CU Arena. * **San Jose State Spartans**: The athletics program of San Jose State University (NCAA Division I), featuring football at CEFCU Stadium and a rich history in track and field.