Visit Broken Arrow
Meeting of: 07-01-2025
Title:
title
Consideration, discussion, and possible approval of Oklahoma Wesleyan 918 Wrestling Open rebate request in an amount not to exceed $6,250
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Background:
The 918 Open is an annual collegiate open wrestling tournament, historically held in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Over the past two years, the event has experienced significant growth, with 100 entries in its inaugural year and 200 in the second. As the tournament continues to expand, organizers reached the capacity limits of local venues, particularly regarding available mat space.
The decision has been made to hold the 2025 Tournament in Broken Arrow, utilizing the new Broken Arrow High School Event center. It will be held on December 13, 2025.
While not a team-based competition, the 918 Open attracts collegiate programs primarily from the regional area. The 2025 tournament is expected to include teams from institutions such as:
* Tarleton State University (TX)
* University of Central Oklahoma
* Oklahoma Wesleyan University
* Northern Oklahoma College - Tonkawa
* Northeastern Oklahoma A&M
* Central Baptist College (AR)
* University of Arkansas at Little Rock
* Fort Hays State University (KS)
* Newman University (KS)
* University of Saint Mary (KS)
* Schreiner University (TX)
* Southeast Community College (NE)
* Midland University (NE)
* Texas Wesleyan University (TX)
* Maryville University (MO)
Notably, both the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University have participated in past events and may return pending the release of the Big 12 schedule.
The event aims to gather 250 participants in 2025 and Broken Arrow is the ideal location to support this inevitable growth.
The requested rebate is based on a maximum expected number of hotel nights at 150.
Cost: Not to Exceed $6,250
Funding Source: Visit Broken Arrow
Requested By: Makala Barton, Tourism Manager
Approved By: City Manager's Office
Attachments: 2025 Grant Application
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